Interpreting Winchester 1917 Markings ...

[M100C]

All,
I have picked up a Winchester M1917. Based on the left side arsenal marks, it looks like it has been in San Antonio Arsenal twice ... [SAA] and [S SAA] ... as well as Augusta Arsenal (AAG). I do not know what the boxed E means; but it is an Eddystone stock.

The gun also has two boxed proofing marks.

The receiver dates to March 1918, whereas the barrel is a Winchester dated 3-19.

All small parts are Eddystone, but the bolt, receiver and barrel are all Winchester.

Best I can make out is the gun was probably arsenaled at SAA after WWI, and may have been updated before WWII, then after WWII. Does anyone else have a story to offer regarding this well used gun?

Also ... anyone know the significance of the large U stamped on the upper tang?

Thanks so much,
Chris

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[twh]

The only rebuild mark I have ever seen that used a U was on the M -1 carbines rebuilt post war by Underwood but I have never seen anything with respect to them being involved with post war rebuilds of Model 1917s.

[browningautorifle]

It actually looks like it's been through five different rebuilds, five different stamp sets there...