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 1906. After the end of the Great War, it was sent back to Springfield to be overhauled (likely as a result of damage and wear suffered during WWI). While at the arsenal, the gun was completely rebuilt, including re-heat treating the receiver (meaning this gun doesn't suffer from the the a brittle receiver issues that are associated with non-rebuilt guns with serial numbers below 800,000). The rifle also received a new barrel made by Rock Island Arsenal. As such the bore of this rifle remains in very good condition. It is mostly shiny with sharp rifling and only some minor "frosting" near the muzzle.
The action works well with no missing or damaged parts. The stock is in great shape with no cracks or splits. The original "FJA" cartouche of Frank J. Atwood can be found on the left counterpane, and the remnant of the original "Circle P" proof mark can be found on the bottom of the wrist.
*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!
