M1903 VS M 1917 Followers

[scmcgeorge]

Dear All: What specifically are the differences between M1903 milled WW1 and earlier folllowers and M1917 followers? Follower in one of M1903's is W stamped ( I assume it is actually a Winchester made M1917 follower) . Seems to function fine, Also is threre a technical difference between M1903 - M1917 follower springs? TIA Steve McGeorge

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[Chuckindenver]

the original 1917 followers had a sharp edge at the rear, as did the early 1903,s, they found that the 1903 fed better with them rounded at the rear edge, thats the only real differance.
however, most 1917 followers were modified at some point having the rear edges rounded, to asssist in feeding. any 1917 that has been through a rebuild or Clean and Check. will likely have the edges rounded.
at one time i have a few early 1903 followers, marked only with a eagles head, and straight rear edges.
may still have one in a box stashed someplace,

[John Beard]

Dear All: What specifically are the differences between M1903 milled WW1 and earlier folllowers and M1917 followers? Follower in one of M1903's is W stamped ( I assume it is actually a Winchester made M1917 follower) . Seems to function fine, Also is threre a technical difference between M1903 - M1917 follower springs? TIA Steve McGeorge

M1903 and M1917 followers and magazine springs are identical and interchangeable. The followers and springs can be identified by their markings, or lack thereof.

J.B.

[scmcgeorge]

Chuck and JB: Many thanks..... Steve McG