Smith Corona 03A3

[1912]

Purchased what appears to be an almost untouched SC 03A3 the other day here Down Under. Whilst it is OG cartouched on the butt (nd the other cartouches are FJA and Circle P), everything appears to be correct SC / specific contractor, so probably just an inspect, stamp, back into store or abroad in the MAP.

Question - with the 03A3 seemingly seeing limited WW2 theatre use, and more likely used in MAP recipient countries, or even kept in US strategic reserves, what is the usually encountered sling on these? I am NOT particularly seeing an M1907 Knox on it realistically (though have a couple minty mid-WW2 ones I could put on), but more likely an M1 sling.

It has a Gotham sight cover on it, and a WW2 yellow plastic oiler.

Appreciate the insight here. Happy to put either sling type on it, as I have both types on hand (including even some original M1917 Kerrs, but that's stretching the plausibility friendship somewhat :) )

Will upload pics when I have it all accessorized out.

 

[doyler]

OG was a stamped Used for rebuild or refurb at Ogden Arsenal. Some rifles were rebuilt and refinished and others just passed through .  

[Rhscott]

Well the sling would have been whatever the receiving unit had on hand and at what time. More and more M1 slings became common into later 1943. I am fond of the webbed M1 sling due to its simplicity and economy of materials….just like the O3-A3 itself.

[gap]

On 4/15/2026 at 3:33 AM, doyler said:

OG was a stamped Used for rebuild or refurb at Ogden Arsenal. Some rifles were rebuilt and refinished and others just passed through .  

 

Agreed. I have an absolutely mint Remington 03-A3 that is stamped OG.  All parts and stock are correct with minimal wear.  Nothing looks replaced or refinished.