1918 Springfield rifle questions

[Tom]

I like everything about this rifle.

John and Rick will have a more proper response. The I-6 heat lot may be new based on VIshooters charts....I don't know? The "A" I thought was post WW1 overhaul, and this rifle may have just went in and out like the OG stamped 1903a3 post WW2.

Nice looking weapon. Looks very correct to me. How is the bore? Crisp stock is a good indicator of an easy life.

According to my info it could have been done at an arsenal repair, or simply by a Check and Test station. I assume each is a different depot, but the A supposedly pertains to barrel , sighting. They didn't use a "comma" so I don't know if it pertains to both or just being sure it doesn't shoot 20 feet high using 30-03 sighting on 30-06 caliber.

[Mike D]

Very nice rifle!

As far as the "A", I think I remember JB saying before 1917 it was stamped on an "acceptable" barrel that came in for overhaul. After 1917, not sure.

[Tom]

Very nice rifle!

As far as the "A", I think I remember JB saying before 1917 it was stamped on an "acceptable" barrel that came in for overhaul. After 1917, not sure.

Quote: 1906 to 1920 the A was added to barrel markings located below the ordanance bomb, to any rifle passing through arsenal repair or Check and Test procedure. The A indicates that the barrel sights had been checked to insure that they were for use for the M1906 cartridge. (that would be the 30-06).

[sicigpat]

thanks for the responses.patrick

[John Beard]

Seasons' Greetings!

You have a very fine rifle! Thanks for sharing.

As you noted, the I 8 bolt is a bit early for your rifle. While I can't rule out the possibility that the bolt might be original, the statistical odds are very small.

The meaning of the "A" underneath the barrel date is unknown. Prior to 1913, the "A" meant that the barrel was on a rifle turned in for overhaul, had passed incoming inspection, and could be re-used. But, the meaning changed by 1918.

Hope this helps. Thanks again for sharing. And Happy New Year!

J.B.

[sicigpat]

thanks again to all that responded, and thanks for the compliments.althought this rifle is far from being pristine, i love the aged look to it.it seems like it was used for its intended purpose but not abused.
this last photo is that of two small stars located between the rear sling swivel and the butplate. I seem to recall reading on the forum that it may possibly signify academy or naval use?thanks again and Happy New Year!

[PeteDavis]

I have 938,222 w/ SA 8-18. You rifle is way nicer than mine. PD

[John Beard]

I have 938,222 w/ SA 8-18. You rifle is way nicer than mine. PD

Does your rifle also have a replacement stock like that one?

J.B.

[PeteDavis]

Replacement stock yes-the stock is a single bolt with a JFC cartouche. Apparently removed from an earlier rifle. No such stars on it anywhere though. The metal finish on my rifle is worn leaving a brown blotched finish. But the bore appears unfired on the 8-18 barrel. I think I had shown this one before when I got it in 2005.

PD

[John Beard]

Hello again all. I know this thread is a little old but if Mr . Beard or anyone can further comment about the stock being a replacement I would greatly appreciate it. Ive looked at Campbell and Brophy's books , and It seems like the DAL stock would be correct for that time period? My rookie guesses are:
1. The non script P would indicate a later production stock even though the DAL stamp may be correct for a 1918 rifle ?
2. The small R in the cutoff recess indicates a replacement stock?
3. The small stars at the rear of the stock indicate rebuild/repacement?
thanks again all.regards.Patrick

If you'll send me a private email and are willing to keep the information in confidence, I'll be happy to explain how I know that your rifle is fitted with a replacement stock.

Hope this helps.

J.B.