Range and accuracy were phenomenal, leading the Army to fit many rifles with a Warner and Swasey Model 1908 Musket Sightfor snipers. It was proven to be reliable with consistent and smooth action under the worst conditions. The Springfield Model 1903 Bolt Action Rifle saw action on the battlefields of World War I. Production eventually went up to 700 rifles per day to keep up with Military demands. Because it was first manufactured at The Springfield Armory, it is was known as the 1903 Springfield Rifle. The official designation of the rifle, after improvements, was US Magazine Rifle, Caliber. The Springfield Armory was ordered to produce 225 examples per day. The Board of Ordnance issued recommendations for changes. The Board requested another prototype for testing, the model 1902.ĭuring the summer of 1903, testing of the 19 was completed. Although the round was more powerful, it caused severe bore erosion. The 1900 prototype rifle was quickly replaced by another prototype referred to as the 1901. The new design was cheaper and easier to operate than the Krag and was fitted with a Mauser type magazine. The Ordnance Board immediately recommended adoption by the United States Army. In 1900, The United States Army Board of Ordnance authorized Springfield Armory to build a prototype rifle that was stronger than the German Mauser. In the matter of firearms on the battlefield, the United States troops were beaten in power, accuracy, and ease of use. The Krag was no match for the Mauser on the battlefield. Spanish troops used the German 1893 Mauser rifle. During the Spanish-American war of 1896, Army officials quickly realized that the Krag Rifle was not suitable for battle. It was the first bolt action rifle adopted by the United States.
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