U.S. Army Rock Island Arsenal M1903 Rifle

Bolt Action Model 1903 Rock Island Arsenal U.S. Service Rifle

S/n 274264, .30-06 caliber, 24″ round barrel, blued and parkerized finish, walnut stock.

NOTE:  Because this rifle falls at the end of the serial  number range which are suspect to failure of the receiver, it is not sold and guarenteed as a shootable rifle, and would best be retired to the “collectors wall”.  The more observant will see that it is proofed in the London Proof house, this is just to cover the law of the land pertaining to sale of a firearm. In this particular case the seller would be open to discussion on the subject of deactivation (at cost) to be able to sell to a no license holder.

Produced at the Rock Island Arsenal in 1918. The top of the receiver is marked “US. / ROCK ISLAND / ARSENAL. / MODEL 1903″ over the serial number. The barrel is marked behind the foresight “R.I.A. / Ordenance bomb / 5 – 29″ this refers to the barrels date of manufacture. ( It is probable that this rifle was re-barrled after WW1) The foresight is a regular blade type with a tangent rear sight set up to a maximum of 2700 yards.

The stock does not have the grasping grooves but is of the smooth straight type with two reinforcing bolts and also has the buttplate with trap and cavity for cleaning materials etc. All sling swivles and stacking hooks are present along with the bayonet lug. The stock also shows a clear “P” proof acceptance mark forward of the trigger guard along with some other sub inspectors’ marks on various parts of the rifle.

This rifle has experienced a major overhaul by the arsenal, leaving us with a well finished and funtional weapon. The outside of the breech shows some pitting which has been finished over with green parkerizing. The rest of the weapon is in fine condition, the stock is very good with few dents or scratches or marks. The bore is excellent and the action fine.

£715.00

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