3710

Very Scarce Model 1903 Rifle Spare Parts Container and Extension Magazine

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:400.00 USD Estimated At:1,000.00 - 1,500.00 USD
Very Scarce Model 1903 Rifle Spare Parts Container and Extension Magazine
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Estimate: $1000 - 1500
Two scarce accessories for the Model 1903 rifle. The spare part container is a cylindrical, oil finished, walnut block milled with slots and recesses for a Model 1903 spare striker, extractor and firing pin. The spare parts container fits in the butt trap of the M1903 rifle. The spare parts container was adopted in 1911; Model 1903 stocks manufactured after 1910 has a clearance cut in the butt trap for the sear nose of the cocking piece. One container was issued to every other rifleman and replaced the oiler usually carried in the butt trap. The spare parts container is complete with the case-hardened cocking piece, firing pin and blued extractor. The survival rate for original spare parts containers was very low. Original examples are extremely difficult to obtain in any condition. The spare parts container is pictured and described on pages 437-438 of "THE SPRINGFIELD 1903 RIFLES" by W.S. Brophy. The 25-round extension magazine was designed to replace the floorplate and follower of the M1903 rifle. Brophy describes the extension magazine in detail on pages 217-219 and states that the magazine was intended for use with M1903 Periscope rifles and the limited production Air Service Rifle. However, the magazine could be fitted to any M1903 rifle. The magazine has a parkerized steel body with niter blue magazine cover, follower and follower spring. The lower left side of the magazine body is stamped with the WWI "Eagle-Head/X32" Ordnance inspection mark. The magazine has all of the original components and includes part of the original cardboard container.
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Serial Number: NSN
Condition: Excellent plus. The spare parts container and all of the components are original and in excellent plus condition. The extension magazine retains at least 98% of the original parkerized finish. The cover and follower have 98% or more of the niter blue finish. The Ordnance inspection mark is crisp. The cardboard carton is missing the top and one end-piece but is original to the extension magazine. These important and very hard to find accessories for the Model 1903 rifle that will add interest to the most advanced M1903 rifle collection.