Just comparing the two 03's in photo's

[Richard H Brown Jr]

Dang: Just read all the comments after I posted, and looked closer at the photo's boy is that an early one or what? Guess Teddy didn't get Army Ordnance to get rid of all the rod 1903's, after all.

RHB

[Fred]

The one in the front looks like a really low SN. Pre-War original to 1903-1908 or so. Any exact date range avail. from you experts?


RHB

That receiver was made in 1903. The rifle has the 1904 updates to the follower and the safety.

[Fred]

[Fred]

Here's something that's unique and interesting. The photo below is of uniform insignia that show two crossed Rod Bayonet 1903 Springfields. The items are on ebay and the seller is calling them Krag Carbines. The link to the site where they are for sale is below.
So, we know that Company G of the 10th and the 3rd N.Y. Infantry were issued the then new 1903 Springfield rifle.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/SPANISH-AMERICAN-WAR-N-Y-10th-INF-VOL-M1896-30-CALIBER-CARBINE-ENLISTED-COLLAR-/291812273632?hash=item43f15dede0:g:LJYAAOSwQupXWytS

[Fred]

Have you ever wondered where the initial design for the tip of the 1903 Rod Bayonet came from? Take a look at this old time Singer sewing machine part...
It seems to me that this little device certainly could've been an inspiration that someone got from their wife's sewing machine. Who knows?

[Fred]

[Fred]

[Allen Humphrey]

OK, I'll go weigh it now on the digital bathroom scales...


Model 1903 made in 1918...9.7 (with oiler and 1907 sling)

Model 1903 Rod Bayonet made in 1903...9.5 (with oiler full of oil and 1903 sling)

Model 1896 Krag made in 1896...9.5 (with oiler and three rods and 1903 sling)

Model 1868 Springfield made in 1868...9.8 (with 1887 sling)

Thanks! So by the time you add the weight of the M1905 bayonet and scabbard, you would be knocking on 12 pounds for an apples to apples comparison.

[Fred]

My rod bayonet rifle feels lighter at the muzzle than the 1918 rifle, which is noticeably more muzzle heavy in comparison.

[Fred]

Thanks! So by the time you add the weight of the M1905 bayonet and scabbard, you would be knocking on 12 pounds for an apples to apples comparison.

The 1918 made 03, which is in virtually uncirculated condition, is 11.7 pounds with the bayonet and canvas scabbard. I'll weigh it again to make sure.