Need info on correct firing pin rod on 1903A1

[ntex2000]

I'm trying to determine which firing pin rod (or if there are more than one) that would be correct for a SA made 1903A1 in the 1.46m s/n range, made in (I believe) 1936. My Poyer book only describes two types but I understand that there are probably are 10 different knurling designs on the cocking piece. I've seen a pic on vishooter of one that he identifies as being from 1925 to 1940, however, I don't know how accurate the info on that website is. I'd be grateful if anyone has any info or has any pics they could post of which one or one's would be correct.

[John Beard]

The 1925-40 picture you refer to on the Vi Shooter website is the correct cocking piece for your M1903A1 rifle. As a matter of note, that style cocking piece actually appeared as early as 1919. And, as a further matter of note, almost all M1903A1 rifles were assembled from assorted parts taken from rifles turned in for overhaul. So, technically speaking, any pre-1936 cocking piece would be correct for your rifle.

Hope this helps.

J.B.

[ntex2000]

The 1925-40 picture you refer to on the Vi Shooter website is the correct cocking piece for your M1903A1 rifle. As a matter of note, that style cocking piece actually appeared as early as 1919. And, as a further matter of note, almost all M1903A1 rifles were assembled from assorted parts taken from rifles turned in for overhaul. So, technically speaking, any pre-1936 cocking piece would be correct for your rifle.

Hope this helps.

J.B.

Let me make sure I understand correctly. For this 1936 03A1 or any previous 03A1, when it was originally manufactured by SA it would have been assembled in part with used parts from previously turned in 03's? Thanks

[John Beard]

Let me make sure I understand correctly. For this 1936 03A1 or any previous 03A1, when it was originally manufactured by SA it would have been assembled in part with used parts from previously turned in 03's? Thanks

Unless you have a National Match or DCM sales rifle, you understand correctly.

J.B.

[Vi Shooter]

...I don't know how accurate the info on that website is...

My website has benefited from input from more than a few people who have (or had - RIP, Cliff) extensive knowledge of the '03 Springfield.

It's a lot more accurate than Poyer's book which would make good birdcage lining.

[TW56]

Vi Shooter, I want to thank you and the individuals that have contributed to your 1903 rifle website. It is the best one on the web. If I am looking for an answer to a parts or bolt question the answer is usually there.

TW56
Ross

[Vi Shooter]

You're welcome, Ross.

The goal is to provide as accurate a set of information as can be gathered. Attaching dates to the use of parts for which no armory record exists depends on getting information from collectors who have substantially correct rifles. From this, dates for earliest use of a particular part version can be established. Last use is a little harder as a non-discontinued part that exists in a parts bin or is salvaged from a scrapped rifle can be used at any time.

Presumably, when a part style changes the armory is no longer making any more in the old style.

John Beard accumulates such data and I am almost entirely dependent on him for the date of usage information. That said, if John now says that a particular firing pin style has been observed on an earlier rifle than I have shown, then I am quite prepared to change the dates on that picture to reflect that information.

Just my 20 mills,
Vi

[dkmatthews]

VI Shooter -- I'm working on indexing the bolt records from your site so I will be able to cross reference by any of the available information. I can't thank you enough for the data you have made available!

[John Beard]

Vi Shooter,

The later style Springfield Armory firing pin previously dated to 1925 has now been officially documented in a Mark I rifle from 1919. So you can revise the date on your picture if you are so inclined.

J.B.