So I recently purchased an M1903 (SN 135XXXX) - Serial No. greater than 800,000. I've Googled and tried to research whether the gun is a shooter or not. It has an HS marked barrel. I've learned that the rifle was manufactured sometime around 1931.What I can't determine is whether this rifle is safe to shoot or not. I've read that 1903's with low serial numbers present at risk of shooting them because they were not properly heat treated when manufactured. What I can't figure out is whether my 1903, with a serial number greater than 800,000, is safe to shoot.
Should my local gunsmith be able to inspect the rifle and tell me whether the rifle is safe to shoot or not?
I apologize in advance if this has been covered, but any information that I can read to make an informed decision and to determine whether this rifle is safe to shoot or not would be greatly appreciated.
If I've simply purchased a collectible, then so be it. I'm perfectly fine with that, but if possible, I would like to occassionally take it to the range and shoot. Thanks!