U.S. Rock Island Arsenal Model 1903 .30-06 Bolt Action Rifle

U.S. Rock Island Arsenal Model 1903 .30-06 Bolt Action Rifle

This is a recently acquired U.S. Rock Island Arsenal rework with a 24" Hi-Standard Barrel marked July 1944. It also has a butt stock trap, "hidden" compartment.

The U.S. Rock Island Arsenal Model of 1903 is a significant piece of American firearm history. Let’s delve into its story:

1. Background:
   • The U.S. Rifle, Caliber, .30, Model of 1903(commonly known as the M1903) was developed by the Springfield Armory and officially adopted in 1903.
   • However, another U.S. government ordnance facility, the Rock Island Arsenal in Illinois, also played a role in manufacturing M1903 rifles.
2. Rock Island Arsenal’s Contribution:
   • The Rock Island Arsenal was established in 1862 on the site of a former military fort.
   • Between 1872 and 1875, armory shops were constructed, primarily for storage purposes.
   • In 1899, Congress allocated funds to establish a military rifle production line at Rock Island.
   • By 1903, the M1903 rifle had been adopted, and Rock Island was ordered to begin plans for its manufacture.
   • In 1904, skilled workers were transferred from Springfield to Rock Island to set up the rifle production program.
   • Rock Island’s first completed M1903, serial number “1,” was assembled in December 1904.
   • Initially, both Springfield and Rock Island produced M1903s with a “rod bayonet” pattern, chambered for the M1903 (.30-’03) cartridge.
   • However, in 1905, issues with the rod bayonet and original sights led to a redesign. The M1903 was modified to use a conventional knife bayonet and improved sights 1 .
3. Serial Numbers and Production:
   • Here are approximate serial numbers for M1903 rifles produced by Springfield Armory and Rock Island Arsenal:
     • Springfield Armory:
       • 1903: 1-16,000
       • 1904: 16,001-67,000
       • 1905: 67,001-119,000
       • 1919: 1,055,092-1,162,500
     • Rock Island Arsenal:
       • 1903: 1-7,500
       • 1904: 7,500-16,000
       • 1905: 16,001-28,000
       • 1919: 326,936-348,414
4. World War I and Beyond:
   • The Model 1903 played a crucial role during World War I and many were reworks for World War II efforts.
   • It weighed approximately 8 lbs., 11 ozs., had a 24" barrel, and an overall length of 43 1/2".
   • Rock Island Arsenal produced M1903 rifles during two main periods: 1904 to 1913 and 1918 to 1919 .

In summary, the U.S. Rock Island Arsenal Model of 1903 stands as a testament to American craftsmanship and military history.

This rifle is in overall good condition for its age and shows normal signs of use, wear, and handling. Please see specifications below and all pictures for special markings and overall accurate depiction.

• Manufacturer: U.S. Rock Island Arsenal
• Model: 1903
• Caliber: .30-06
• Capacity:5
• Barrel Length: 24"
• Sights: Ladder, Hooded Blade Front
• Stock: Walnut
• Serial Number: 374293
• Circa: 1918-1919 - Reworked in July 1944
• There were some heat treatment issues that arose with some 1903 reworks. Concerning Rock Island Arsenal-made rifles, any rifle made after serial number 285,507 is considered safe. However, proceed with caution.
  
• The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
  

An FFL is required for shipping upon purchase of this item. Please send us a copy of your FFL with the product name in the subject line of the email to: info@tylergunworks.com.