The Springfield M1903 continued to be heavily used by the United States during World War II. Private manufacturers Remington Arms and Smith-Corona (originally typewriter companies) joined in on production for the war effort. Shortly after the start of WW2, manufacturers started producing the M1903-A3. The A3 models had a simpler iron rear sight, as well as less detailed work on the stock and receiver. The finish became ‘parkerized’, which was both durable and cost efficient for the war efforts. Once production demand of the M1 Garand improved, the model 1903-A3 was phased out of use. However, while no longer the standard infantry rifle, the design was transformed yet again into the 1903-A4, which was the main sniper rifle for the United States during World War II. The 1903-A4 had a pistol grip stock and was fitted with either a Weaver scope or a Unertl scope by the USMC.
Due to the rifle’s notable accuracy and balance, the Springfield M1903 remained in use by the United States military until the late 1950’s. In all, it was used in action in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. |