Guns International #: 102859683
Seller's Inventory #: 244184
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Guns International #: 102859683
Category - Rock Island Armory Rifles
- Military Rifles - US
U.S. ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL M1903 .30-06 Bolt Action C&R MILITARY Rifle FJA
Inspected by Lt. Colonel FRANK J. ATWOOD
Description: U.S. ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL M1903 .30-06 Bolt Action C&R MILITARY Rifle FJA Inspected by Lt. Colonel FRANK J. ATWOOD Here we present a U.S. Rock Island Arsenal Model 1903 Rifle, manufactured at the Rock Island Arsenal in Rock Island, Illinois. By 1913, sufficient numbers of M1903s were on hand to equip the rather small armed forces of the United States. Production was halted at Rock Island since Springfield could keep pace with the limited demand. The last Rock Island ’03s made during this period came off the assembly line on November 17, 1913. Springfield continued its M1903 rifle production, albeit at a reduced rate. Sources vary on the number of ’03 rifles manufactured at Rock Island Arsenal from the beginning of production until the cessation of manufacture in 1913. Estimates range between just under 235,000 to over 263,000. Analysis of serial number data tends to support the lower estimate. In late 1916, it was obvious to all but the most myopic observer that the United States would soon be drawn into the war raging in Europe. To meet the needs of an anticipated growth in demand for military arms, Rock Island was directed to re-establish its Model 1903 rifle production line on September 19, 1916. This was easier said than done, as much of Rock Island’s talented workforce, which had successfully produced the M1903 rifle prior to 1914, was gone, and many skilled artisans had taken jobs in other industries. In addition, the demands of the war in Europe created shortages of raw materials. Eventually, Rock Island was able to assemble and train a new work force and put its production machinery back in working order. Production resumed on the Model 1903 at the arsenal in late February 1917. Apparently, Rock Island began production of some parts before this time: Barrels dated as early as December 1916 have been reported. Prior to the resumption of assembly line production of new rifles, Rock Island assembled several thousand rifles from parts remaining on hand from the previous production run that ended in 1913. The M1903s manufactured by Rock Island beginning in early 1917 were essentially the same as the rifles made there previously. Rock Island Arsenal continued to manufacture some complete rifles through June 30, 1920. The Model 1903 rifle had an overall production run from 1903 through 1949 with over 3,000,000 produced. The M1903 Springfield, formally the United States Rifle, is an American five-round magazine fed, bolt-action service repeating rifle, used primarily during the first half of the 20th century. It was officially adopted as a United States military bolt-action rifle on June 19, 1903, and saw service in both World War I and World War II. It was officially replaced as the standard infantry rifle by the faster-firing semi-automatic eight-round M1 Garand starting in 1936. However, the M1903 Springfield remained in service as a standard issue infantry rifle during World War II since the U.S. entered the war without sufficient M1 rifles to arm all troops. It also remained in service as a sniper rifle from 1936 through 1975, which included World War II, the Korean War, and even in the Vietnam War. It still remains popular as a civilian firearm, historical collector's piece, a competitive shooting rifle, and as a military drill rifle. Initially, the 1903 Springfield was chambered in a new .30-03 caliber. The cartridge employed a rimless, necked-down case with a 220-grain round-nosed bullet that left the muzzle of the 24-inch barrel at some 2,300 feet-per-second. Though the round was certainly adequate for military work, when the Germans adopted a superior pointed spitzer bullet in 1904, the Americans followed suit with their own version that had a 150-grain cupro-nickel-jacketed bullet that boosted the older round's velocity by some 400 fps. And thus, the famed .30-06 was born. The overall condition is good. The action is excellent. The bore is shiny bright with sharp rifling. The stock has been somewhat crudely armory refinished. Several inspection markings still legible. Solid throughout. Own the original! This firearm is classified as a Curio & Relic. Barrel is 24 inches. Caliber: 30-06 Springfield Overall condition as seen in photos. Very Fast. Very Safe. FREE SHIPPING. Will need to be sent to your local FFL or C&R licensee. This firearm is classified as a Curio & Relic. Guaranteed AUTHENTIC & Includes CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY. ancestryguns $1600 #244184 Price: $1,600.00 Buy Now Antique: Yes Contact Seller |
Guns International #: 102859683
Seller's Inventory #: 244184
Guns International #: 102859683
Seller's Inventory #: 244184