Remington Modal 03-A3 with MP Mark

[BHay]

I've taken on the project of researching a friends Remington Modal 03-A3 and in the process I've looked at hundreds of posts and webpages. I've got most of the markings and cartouches figured out except one.

The attached image shows 'MP' stamped on the left side of the stock just below the rear of the bolt. The mark is upside down and at an angle. It appears to be contemporary with the other original markings on the stock.

Obviously the first thing that comes to mind is Military Policy, and I've seen at least one photo of an MP equipped with this gun in WWII. But I'd like to find a resource to help me understand the origin of the mark, where and by whom it was likely applied and is it likely to be authentic. If it is authentic what does it tell me about the history of this specific gun.

Can anyone point me in the right direction?

 

[rcmodel]

Looks like RA-P in the photo.

Raritan Arsenal rebuilds were marked with a RA-P
The RA-P is Raritan Arsenal (in New Jersey). The "P" was the first initial of the inspector (Peterson).

I believe Raritan was doing the final inspection on all 03-A3's before they were released for civilian sale by the DCM.

And that stamp signifies it was done.

rc

 

[BHay]

No wonder I couldn't find references to a MP marking. Once I knew what to look for it's clear the marking is MR-P. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction. I've spent many hours researching this gun- I can see where this stuff can get addictive.

So, my working hypothesis is the gun was refurbished before release to the DCM for future sale on the civilian market.

This is a great forum, thanks for the quick reply.

 

[BHay]

Whoops, I should have typed RA-P

 

[dprice3844444]

http://www.trfindley.com/pgsnstmpsm1.html
http://www.trfindley.com/pgm1903stkid.html
http://m1903.com/isstamps.htm

 

[Jim K]

Some of those RA-P marked rifles may have been rebuilds, but many were not. When the supply of M1 rifles was adequate, M1903A3's went from factory to depot and were never issued. Later, they were sold or given to allied countries under the military assistance program or sold through the DCM. But army regs required that rifles to be sold to civilians had to be proof tested, so they were and got the same cartouche as rebuilt rifles, even though they were brand new.

Now, all that being said, for the heartburn. That marking does not look right and is not like any of the dozens of RA-P markings I have seen, including one I am looking at right now. First, I have never seen one upside down, though they are often at an angle. Second, it is in the wrong place, usually being further forward. (The original inspection mark and acceptance stamp are in that position.) Third, the letters appear to be too small and of the wrong font. Fourth, the stock has been heavily sanded and stained the wrong color.

I am aware of a large number of faked up M1903A3 rifles on the market. I am not sure where these are coming from; they may be drill rifles reactivated. Most seem to have rehabbed stocks and new-looking Parkerizing, and are being sold as original and in like new condition. Some have either fake receivers or have had the markings ground off and restamped. All I can say, is "buyer beware."

Jim

 

[BHay]

Thanks for the webpages, I hadn't run across those (they're bookmarked now).

Really interesting comments. I appreciate your help.

Brian