WWI U.S. ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL M1903 .30-06 Bolt Action C&R MILITARY Rifle Infantry Rifle Made in 1918 ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS

Product Description

WWI U.S. ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL M1903 .30-06 Bolt Action C&R MILITARY Rifle 

Infantry Rifle Made in 1918 ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS

Here we present a C&R U.S. Rock Island Arsenal Model 1903 Rifle, manufactured circa 1918 at the Rock Island Arsenal in Rock Island, Illinois. By 1913, sufficient numbers of Model 1903s 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.

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 very good. Robust action. The bore is bright and sharply rifled. Fine stock. Markings are legible. “10-18” dated barrel underneath a flaming bomb at the muzzle. This example has been refinished.

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.

www.ancestryguns.com

$1650
#230209