RARE US MODEL 1903 ROD BAYONET SPRINGFIELD

SERIAL NUMBER "?" BARREL 24.206. CALIBER 30-03 ORIGINAL PRE 1906. MADE CIRCA 1904-1905. It is estimated that approximately 75000 original rod bayonet rifles were made but were deemed unsatisfactory and were recalled and altered to except the knife bayonet of 1905 and most were later converted to fire the new 30-06 cartridge which was done by shortening the barrel. The Krag style rear sights were removed and most of the remaining rifles found their way into the mainstream inventory . Original unaltered rod bayonet rifles are extremely scarce and this specimen has survived in extraordinary condition with exception to two Issues. During the time of manufacture of this new Government rifle, it was illegal to own any such firearm without a signed release making possession by any unauthorized individual a felony. This resulted in the removal of the serial number from the frame and the date under the strong JSA cartouche on left side. This process somehow left the illegitimate owner a sense of safety from prosecution. Every single part is original of the era and un-messed with. The butt plate has large second type trapdoor. No bolt sock has wide finger groove walnut forend with long non-grooved handguard. Barrel is not dated which is correct. Extractor is early fire blue. Both bands are stamped with U. Proper cursive P under wrist, smooth trigger, rare 1903 dated sling. Condition. Stock is near mint with just minor handling marks. Stock cartouche near mint except date removed. All legends like new. Floor Plate is smooth patina as is butt plate. Balance of metal is all original, untouched thin factory blue. Bore is superb. Basically, this rifle looks just like it did when stolen from the government over one hundred years ago and a wonderful opportunity to own a real rod bayonet rifle at a fair price that has an outstanding appearance. The great thing with this gun is that a previous owner had the fore sight to take it to the ATF and had the gun numbered on the frame below the wood, number 63500-127. So this gun is totally legal and if you happen to have a nice 1904-05 frame, you can build a really rare rifle. C&R