Interpreting Winchester 1917 Markings ...

3 Attachment(s)

All,
I have picked up a Winchester M1917. Based on the left side arsenal marks, it looks like it has been in San Antonio Arsenal twice ... [SAA] and [S SAA] ... as well as Augusta Arsenal (AAG). I do not know what the boxed E means; but it is an Eddystone stock.

The gun also has two boxed proofing marks.

The receiver dates to March 1918, whereas the barrel is a Winchester dated 3-19.

All small parts are Eddystone, but the bolt, receiver and barrel are all Winchester.

Best I can make out is the gun was probably arsenaled at SAA after WWI, and may have been updated before WWII, then after WWII. Does anyone else have a story to offer regarding this well used gun?

Also ... anyone know the significance of the large U stamped on the upper tang?

Thanks so much,
Chris

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The only rebuild mark I have ever seen that used a U was on the M -1 carbines rebuilt post war by Underwood but I have never seen anything with respect to them being involved with post war rebuilds of Model 1917s.

It actually looks like it's been through five different rebuilds, five different stamp sets there...