Printable View
These markings are on a circa 1908 RIA '03. First, I'm trying to identify the script cartouche under the JFC cartouche. It looks like a CN - is that a correct read?
This particular rifle is still in original blue with matching receiver and barrel. Based on the 1903's that I have seen, this one seems to have a lot of markings on it. Why all the markings on the stock?
Attachment 30759Attachment 30760
At first, I thought it was "C.N.". But comparing it to my photo, it's not.
The stamps are all interesting. The original encircled "P" is serifed. The block "P", on top, is from a subsequent inspection/repair. "J.F.C" is a SA inspector, John or James Coyle, can't remember. The "H" is a known RIA final inspection stamp, circa WWI.
There is a lot going on with this stock. Can we see more photos of the whole rifle, please? And can you post the serial # and barrel date?
Mike
[IMG] [/IMG]
Here are a few more pics of this RIA with SN 116683 and barrel date 12-08.
Attachment 30768Attachment 30769Attachment 30770Attachment 30771Attachment 30772Attachment 30773
It looks like CSW to me but that is not a known inspector's stamp. It's certainly early as the JFC stamp dates from 1906-1907 itself. Does the tip show evidence of the plug used to repair rod bayonet stocks? Is there a RIA on the tip? Since it is an early stock, it may have been a reworked rod bayonet stock with the stock bolt added. There was a CAW, C.A. White, 1904-1905, at SA which is about the time frame of your stock. The stock & metal may have been put together when the rifle was overhauled.
Could not tell by your photos, do you have the early rear sight leaf without the rib on the back and the open bottom rear sight base ? These photos are from RIA 64145 with a RIA 3-07 bbl
The other photo shows the relocated hole in the front of early Rock Island stocks
I agree, an interesting stock! There were several early inspectors who used the "script" inspection stamp. JSA (J. Sumner Adams), JFC (J.F. Coyle) and KC (don't remember that one). Look on the foretip, as directed. Is there a 1/8" or 1/4" "S" or an "RI"?
(And, MIke, if you continue to show that durned CN/1908 stock of yours, I may be moved to commit murder!!) :D
Here is a pic of the fore tip. By the way, that rear sight slide with the hole in it in one of the previous pics, looks crudely made.
Attachment 30779
Here is another list of inspection stamps that may help. i can't speak to the accuracy. so FWIW.
Inspectors Stamps
Regards,
Jim
The believe the link was taken from Brophy. Most are accurate, some aren't.Quote:
Originally Posted by JGaynor
The S on the foretip indicates the stock was original from Springfield pre-1913.
sweet RIA..very nice, wish it was in my stable.
What is the significance of the size of the "S" on the forestock?Quote:
Originally Posted by Rick the Librarian
A smaller S is seen on early Springfield stocks; a larger one of pre-WWI Rock Island M1903s. As a result, it is a prime way of identifying an early stock as to manufacturer. Many, if not most, were modified to later standards, but the S usually remained.
If I understand this correctly, then Springfield supplied stocks to RIA (the ones with the larger "S"). Is that correct?Quote:
Originally Posted by Rick the Librarian
Nope - Springfield did not supply stocks to RIA. One interpretation of the S is "shortened".