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Newby needs help with my RIA 1903.
Hello everyone, my first post. I just recently got a Rock Island Arsenal Model 1903 (serial # 218xxx) that I was told many years ago by my grandmother that it belonged to my great uncle, who fought during WWI. The SN dates to early 1913 manufacture. The barrel date is RIA 9-12 with the bomb. The underside of the barrel is K-5 over P. The bore is pretty good considering the age. on the top of the bolt arm looks like an "R" inside a circle. On the underside of the bolt arm/handle is an "R". I think the stock is an "S" type,but no marks of any kind on the outside, and the only marks present on the inside look like two triangles. I also noted a pencil mark inside that looks like a small case cursive "w". I tried to post pics, but haven't mastered that yet, but any info would be appreciated. I also know about the low number serial number. The rifle seems to be in great condition, but I probably won't shoot it. I'm almost 70 , and am a lifelong hunter and gun owner. This is my first military rifle, and I love it. I do have a Colt 1911 45 cal. made in 1917 and carried by my uncle in WWII. I know it's difficult to tell very much without pics. I will continue to try. Maybe my grandson can help when he gets home from school.
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Not very good at sending pics.
Jim, I'm still trying to send the pics.
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Some more pics....I'm getting better
These are some of the pictures of the 1903 I recently inherited. I apologize for the quality. Any help or info about my rifle is appreciated. John
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RIA 1903---A few more pictures.
Just trying to find out what I've got. All help appreciated. John
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Complete rifle-- RIA Model 1903
My complete, put-together rifle. See the other posts for more detailed pictures.