Milled follower

[BEAR]

This is a milled follower that came off of my son's sporterized 1903.
40547

The stamps sort of confuse me (at my age not surprising).
If the "44" is a date stamp then that seems very late in the war for a milled follower since the stamped followers were introduced in 1942.
The upper stamp appears to be an incomplete "Ordnance Bomb".
Any ideas, comments, or thoughts. What about a possible manufacturer.
40548

Thanks

BEAR

[Emri]

That is a RIA inspection stamp. Flaming bomb over a number, in this case inspector #44.

Emri

[BEAR]

Thanks Emri,
That's why I like M1903s. There is always something new to learn and 03 people are always willing to share without a condescending attitude. No "Gun gods" here.

[Emri]

You're welcome Bear. John Beard has taught me quite a bit about 03's and some of it I actually remember from time to time !!

[bruce]

My cow! Been around 03 and 03-A3 rifles since 1980. Had never noticed such a stamp on an 03 follower. Sincerely. bruce.

[chuckindenver]

RIA parts iv seen, and have on my rifle.
follower,
floor plate,
trigger guard,
buttplate,
cut off lever,
safety lever,
safety sleeve,
bolt,
extractor,
ejector,
front sight,
rear sight,
rear sight base,
trigger,
sear,