The M1903 Springfield was adopted by the U.S. Army a few years after the Spanish-American War; where it became clear that the Mauser rifle used by Spanish forces far outclassed the delicate Krag-Jorgensen used by U.S. troops. It was shortly after this experience against the Mauser rifle that the army began to develop a new rifle based on the Mauser action. The new rifle was designated the Model 1903 Springfield and wasn't just based on the Mauser action, it essentially ripped it off entirely. U.S. engineers hoped that the use of a two-piece firing pin and other slight design modifications would be enough to keep avoid a lawsuit from Mauser Werke, but the German firm did not agree and filed suit. The subsequent ruling required the U.S. to pay $250,000 in royalties to Mauser Werke.
The new rifle proved to be very reliable and popular among the armed forces; leading to a very long production run of nearly 50 years; and serving in every major American conflict from WW1 through Vietnam.
This particular rifle was made in 1918, meaning this gun doesn't suffer from the the a brittle receiver issues that are associated with with serial numbers below 800,000. This rifle's late production also makes it much more likely to have been issued to combat troops during WWII - the Marines at Guadalcanal famously used Model 1903s that had been had either been built or otherwise arsenal refurbished during the 1930's with most notable example being serial number 840216, which was issued to Sergeant Roy Jowers of H Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, and bears a variety of early/mid 1930’s rebuild traits; including a .40 height numbered front sight, a checkered buttplate and a 1932-dated barrel. This particular rifle sports a 5-42 dated barrel made by Rock Island Arsenal. It is shiny with sharp rifling and no rust or pitting to speak of - this rifle should make for a fantastic shooter!.
The action works well with no missing or damaged parts. The stock is in great shape with no cracks or splits.
*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!
