R.I.A. M1903 Questions with pics

[nellified]

Hello. First post here. I have an M1903 Springfield passed down from my grandfather who served in France during WWII. He was a 50 mm beach gun artillery gunner and were in charge or shooting down V1 bombs coming from Germany and falling in Europe. I am wondering if this was the actual firearm issued to him. The rifle is in very good shape and am also wondering if it was issued during the war, why the little wear. I have enclosed pics. The info I have been able to pull off of the rifle are as follows: U.S. Rock Island Arsenal Model 1903 404110. At the end of the barrel on the top just behind the sight is: S A then the Springfield symbol I am guessing and then 8-42. Directly underneath these symbols on the barrel is the number 5. I have not been able to find any inspection marks on the stock. Please any info (how rare it is, value, etc) would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again.

Information

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[Kirk]

Your rifle was made by RIA before they stopped production in 1919. It was evidently rebuilt in WWII as indicated by the 1942 barrel, WWII replacement bolt and firing pin from a M1903A3. It also appears to be refinished. Your stock looks brand new.

It would be very difficult to tell if this was the rifle used by your grandfather. Unless there is any documentation among his effects, I doubt you will find and Army records. Records of rifles issued to individuals were not kept. If it is possible he bought it from the DCM, contact the CMP; they can search their sales records. Civilian Marksmanship Program

Your RIA has a "high number" receiver (safe to fire). I'd have the rifle's headspace checked by a competent gunsmith to make sure it is OK. Value would be at least $600, perhaps $800 depending on the condition of the bore and other parts.

[Rick the Librarian]

"Brought back" firearms, especially rifles are very uncommon. Rifles and all other equipment had to be turned in and inventoried before the soldier was discharged. There were exceptions, but usually yhere was paperwork to back this up.

[RETREAD]

No offense intended, but is it possible he had one just like it while in service, and obtained this one at a later date ?

[Harlan (Deceased)]

Welcome to the site nellified.

Just for clarification nellified said he was only wondering if this could be the same exact rifle his grandfather was issued.

[John Beard]

Your rifle was not likely issued to your grandfather in its current configuration while he was stationed in France. Some parts on the rifle date from the late 1944 period and would not likely be on a rifle issued in France.

Hope this helps.

J.B.