This model, approved in 1903, was the result of the failing of the prevalent theory of fire, that the primary use of a magazine arm was as a single shot weapon, with a full magazine held in reserve only for use in emergencies.  The “Krag” also had a relatively low muzzle velocity, imperfect mechanism and slowness of loading loose rounds.  All these factors made the Krag system obsolete.  The ammunition used was .30 caliber with a 220 grain round-nosed bullet using 43 grains of powder, resulting in a muzzle velocity of 2300 feet per second.  The cartridges were packed in clips of five rounds.  In 1906, the bullet was reduced to 150 grains with a sharp point, cupro-nickel casing over a core of tin and lead.  The charge was increased to 50 grains of powder, giving a muzzle velocity of 2700 feet per second, resulting in penetration at 100 yards, of 46.7 1 inch pine boards spread an inch apart.  This ammunition was dubbed the .30-06, which is still in extensive use today. 

     Our specimen is marked on top of the receiver “U.S.” “SPRINGFIELD” “ARMORY” “MODEL 1903.” in four lines, and the serial number 516247.  The barrel is marked behind the front sight “AV”, flaming bomb and “3-19” indicating the date of manufacture.  The front face of the stock is marked “R”.  The bottom of the stock behind the trigger guard is marked “3”.   The bayonet is marked on one side "SA", flaming bomb, "1907" in three lines, and on the other side "US", "193824" in two lines.  One scabbard is marked “RIA”, “1908” and “HEK”.  The other scabbard is marked “R.I.A.”, “1909” and “T.C”.