1903 books

[Bill Hollinger]

I would like to get into the 1903 world and would like some advice on which books to acquire. I don't have a lot of money so maybe one great book to cover as much as can be. I have the one my farther gave to me years ago. It is a low serial numbered WWII rebuild and it is quite nice. I had it critiqued by another member some time ago. I would like information on Remington, Rock Island and Smith Corona and like to be able to know what I'm looking at to make an educated decision about them. What book or books would be the best for the beginner? TIA

Information

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[Claven2]

Col. Brophy's "Springfield 1903 Rifles, The: The illustrated, documented story of the design, development, and production of all the models of appendages, and accessories" is my go-to reference. Not perfect and getting to be an older reference, but IMHO still the best one out there.

Another popular (and cheaper) option is Bruce Canfield's "An Illustrated Guide to the '03 Springfield Service Rifle". I don't have a copy so I can't comment on how it stacks up to Brophy, but a lot of pals seem to own it - perhaps due to the lower price.

[Mike D]

Bill - There isn't "one great one". Besides what Claven mentioned -

Clark Campbell - "The '03 Springfield Rifles' Era"

C.S. Ferris - "Rock Island Model 1903"

[ethomsen]

Model 1903 Springfield Rifles by the NRA copyright 1989 is more of a brochure than a book, but has some interesting facts.

[Rick the Librarian]

I agree - there isn't THE reference. All of them have their uses ... and their shortcomings.

[Screwball]

When I was looking at adding a scope to my M1903, I looked hard for info on the USMC sniper setup. The main books had a little info, but US Marine Corps Scout-Sniper: World War II and Korea by Peter Senich really was a wealth of info.

It goes into the M1903, the Garand, the M1 Carbine with IR scope, and a few bigger bore options. Also has interviews with snipers, and talks about the enemy snipers they were up against in those two wars.

[Rick the Librarian]

That is a book that isn't often brought up when discussing the M1903, but does have quite a bit on the sniper versions.

[browningautorifle]

I should think the question would be which books NOT to get?

[Rick the Librarian]

DON'T get Joe Poyer's book and maybe the one by J.C. Harrison.