1903 Springfield bullets

[Robert Swartz]

..got my 1903 Springfield. Got some brass. Now I'm cogitating over what bullet to try. I know the 30.06 brass is supposed to be sized at .308. Was wondering if the Hunter Supply 152 yr Spitzer Point bullet sized at .311 would be safe to try? Just looking for a little direction. This is a low serial# 1903.

[Niederlander]

If you're talking jacketed, I'd stick to .308 or .309.  If it's lead, .311 won't hurt a thing.  I just use standard 150 (or 147) full metal jacket spitzer bullets in my low number Springfield.  I NEVER hotrod it, but then I don't do that with any gun I own.

[Major 2]

I use Hunters Supply Hard Cast Bullets 30 Caliber (311 Diameter) 152 Grain Lead Spitzer Point,
and Trailboss.

Target @ 50 yds. upper off-hand, lower is bench rested

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[Trailrider]

I would definitely NOT use jacketed .311 bullets in a low-number Springfield. I would also check for any signs of cracking in the receiver!

[Robert Swartz]

I would definitely NOT use jacketed .311 bullets in a low-number Springfield. I would also check for any signs of cracking in the receiver!

....already done that. Went over the the action, chamber and body with really strong light looking for signs of stress or cracks. Guy I got it from had in a case for years! He had originally planned to use it for WW1 reenacting but never pursued it. This one still has a 1918 barrel and strong rifling. When I disassembled the bolt, it still had cosmoline in it. Yes, I've read up on the low serial number receivers. Most of the failures were attributed to bad or in the 20's way overloaded military ammo. Did you know there were receivers with ser#'s over the 850K number that failed as well! No failures were recorded from WW2. None are on record from the preceding years up to now. Should one be cautious with these old guns, absolutely. Just like I am with my Trapdoor and Krag. I have shot some Hornaday 150 gr hunting ammo and some vintage match grade that I have. Do not want to feed it a steady diet of these. Not afraid of these old antiques. Others mileage may vary.

On a second note. Regarding the 152gr Hunter Supply bullets. What min/max OAL is desirable to ensure proper feeding. Do you load them with or without gaschecks? Thanks, this is the information I'm seeking.