Rock Island M1903 Rifle

Your Price: $1,195.00

Part Number: SN 331011

Availability: In Stock

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Description

The M1903 Springfield was adopted by the US as its standard infantry rifle in the beginning of the 20th Century, based on the famous "Mauser" action, the new gun was generally well received by soldiers and the gun saw extensive service during the U.S' involvement during the Great War. The rifle continued to serve faithfully during the interwar period and was in the process of being phased out in favor of the semi-automatic "M1 Garand" as hostilities in Europe grew into what would become the Second World War. With another war becoming increasingly inevitable, the US once again began preparing its armed forces for another war in Europe. While the new M1 Garand was being produced by Springfield, it became clear that the output of the federal arsenal would not be able to meet the demand for arms. In order to make up for arms shortages, contracts were given to Remington Arms Co, and Smith-Corona ( a type writer company) to produce a simplified version of the M1903; which would be re-designated as the M1903A3.

The M1903 and the M1903A3 rifles were used in combat alongside the M1 Garand by the US military during World War II and saw extensive use and action in the hands of US troops in Europe, North Africa, and the Pacific. The US Marines were initially armed with M1903 rifles in early battles in the Pacific, such as the Battle of Guadalcanal, but the jungle battle environment generally favored self-loading rifles; later Army units arriving to the island were armed with M1 Garands. The U.S. Army Rangers were also a major user of the M1903 and the M1903A3 during World War II with the Springfield being preferred over the M1 Garand for certain commando missions.

This particular rifle was made by Rock Island Arsenal during the interwar period of 1919 - the last year of Rock Island's production. Out of the four arsenals that produced the M1903, Rock Island made by far the fewest, with only 348,000 produced between 1903 and 1919, compared to more than 1.5 million produced by Springfield. In preparation for America's entry into WWII this rifle was overhauled at the Rock Island Arsenal, where a small crack behind the tang was repaired, and a new 1942-dated two groove barrel was installed. As such the bore of this rifle remains in very good condition. It is mostly shiny with sharp rifling and only some minor "frosting" in the grooves.

The action works well with no missing or damaged parts. The stock is original and in great shape, and includes a large "RI" stamp at the end of the stock below the barrel; indicating that it is a true Rock Island stock and not a later replacement.

*This weapon was made after 1899 and MUST be shipped to Federal Firearms License holder for transfer. Never bought a gun through an FFL before? Give us a call at (262) 473-5444 and we'd be glad to walk you through this simple process!

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Rock Island M1903 Rifle

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