SOLD - Scarce WWI Rock Island Arsenal M1903

Description

4/9/19 - This is a beautiful, scarce model 1903 rifle made by Rock Island Arsenal. This rifle has a case hardened receiver and early style straight bolt handle. During 1918, RIA ceased production to address forging issues with previously made receivers. Approximately 15k receivers from 270k - 285k were double heat treated (this weapon falls in that range). The stock is a type "S" with finger grooves and later added two stock bolts. The stock is minty with inspector stamp "WES" and circle "P" on the underside. Comes with a scarce pre-WW1 hand guard. The metal parts including receiver and bolt assembly is all correct and excellent. Sharp lands and grooves in the bore, but frost throughout. These Rock Island Arsenal Rifles are scarce as roughly 3x as many rifles were made by Springfield, and production at RIA ceased by the conclusion of WW1. Comes with a m1907 style leather sling, original brass buttstock oiler with thong and bore brush.