Hatcher Hole?

[John Beard]

John, 2nd attempt to add to my earlier post - In Campbell's "The '03 Era" on page 105. The discussion is about 03A3s'. Paragraph "Eased Tolerances and Cost Reduction Changes" - About half way down - "He desired a left gas escape hole (as had been drilled additionally at Springfield Armory -- at General Hatcher's suggestion --since 1936)". Brophy's "The Springfield 1903 Rifles" - On pages 44,45, 196 and 197 - talks about the gas hole, but does not call it the "Hatcher Hole". Interesting, I thought Brophy's book would be the source. As you no doubt know, Gen. Hatcher held many high level technical posts and commands in the Ordinance Department and received the two highest non combat awards for his service. Sorry I can't find any better references. Campbells book has a lot, maybe one of them is the real deal. Regards, Johnny Lawson

Many thanks for your diligence in chasing that information down!

I was aware of the Campbell reference, but couldn't put my finger on it. I assumed Campbell got it from Hatcher's Notebook. So, I went through Hatcher's Notebook with a fine-toothed comb, but couldn't find it. I thought perhaps that I had overlooked it. So, I posted here hoping that someone else might have seen it.

I also appreciate you searching Brophy and Canfield. The Canfield account is close, but not entirely accurate.

I have the Springfield Armory test report recommending the hole. And Hatcher's name is nowhere in it.

Thanks again for you diligence!

J.B.