First the big question. I just inherited a springfield 03-A3 that was in the middle of being sporterized from my grandad - he picked up three at $25 each back in the day. Since I already have a 30-06 and there is no way to convert this to stock I was wondering how difficult it would be to convert this to say 6.5-06 not sure im going to convert that rifle but want to convert some rifle. I have never done anything like this before but I do really want some rifle that is a little unique. So basically would it be difficult to find a barrel that would work for this combination and what else would need to be done to make this converstion successful? Thanks.

Second question hopefully easier than the first. Where would be a good spot to pick up part for said springfield 03-A3. Like the bolts that hold the floorplate, stock and reciever togather. I have lots of sprinfield parts now many redundant parts just not those parts. derr. Thanks

1903’s have been converted to just about every conceivable caliber...and any competent smith can install a barrel of your choice for you, or you can send it into Krieger, Shilen, etc., and they will barrel it for you.

Brownell’s carries brand new guard screws part # 319-414-171...and you can find all other parts in the ads in Shotgun News. Numrich, Sarco, Popperts, etc, all carry a huge selection of 1903 & 03A3 parts.

Just about any conversion on a 06 ( 62mm ), 57mm brass family is going to be a fairly simple rebarrel job, possibly some follower work. Very straight forward conversion, that any good smith can easily perform.

If your going to a 6.5x06 from a 30-06 I doubt your even going to need to fiddle with the follower, I would expect minor work though if you go the other way like a 35 Whelen or a 9.3x62 ( bigger than 30 cal ).

If your trying to match the barrel contour I would call Lothar Walther or Krieger and see if they have a match dialed into their CNC machines.

I just ordered an 1903 Springfield military contoured barrel from Krieger and they will make you a barrel that needs nothing more than final head spacing with a finish reamer.

I thought such a thing should be fairly easy. Thanks for the imput. This project might just happen.