Decoding "new to me" markings on a Springfield '03

[82Trooper]

Hello all.
Hoping someone can assist me with decoding one of the markings on a newly acquired 1903 Springfield . Based on the serial number, I believe it was manufactured in 1916.
Two questions tonight (more to follow!):
1.) The serial number is electro-penciled on the bolt....was this original? done when manufactured? or was it done later on at some point?
2.) There is a stamping on the butt stock that appears to read "3 GM - K"

As always, thanks in advance for those willing to share their knowledge.

[oldfoneguy]

No 1903 bolts weren't numbered to their reciever. What you have is commonly known as a force match probably done during its refurb wherever that happened. Which brings up the proof stamping. I have no idea where or when it was done as there's a good deal of ambiguity as far as that particular stamping goes. There are some that say General Motors Kelvinator division but there's no concrete proof of that.

There are several experts on the 1903 here that we all turn to. Hopefully one will be along to help you out

[Chuckindenver]

picture of the left side of the rifle would help. color of the park, and the poor job of being serialed on the bolt could be signs of USMC, the stock looks to be a 1903A3 stock, 1903A3 stamped trigger guard. as well.

[Promo]

No 1903 bolts weren't numbered to their reciever.

NM were factory matched to the rifles. The OP rifle though isn't one of them.


The mixture of finish and the color of it makes me suspect the owners rifle may have some USMC connection. Others will know better though.

[82Trooper]

Ok...thanks for starting info. You have piqued my curiosity on this one....here are some additional photos (sorry for the indoor pix...ran out of daylight!). Any more information in helping me understand what I have would be appreciated. Barrel is marked 'SA" 1929 with the ordnance bomb.

[John Beard]

You have a rifle that was originally issued to and served in the USMC. The serialized bolt, for example, is likely indicative of USMC issuance. The rifle, however, underwent overhaul in late WWII at what is believed to be a division of General Motors and lost substantial originality. The stock, trigger guard, and bolt sleeve/firing pin assembly are a replacements from an M'03-A3 rifle.

Thanks for sharing! And Happy Holidays!

J.B.