Rifleman Q&A: CMP M1903A3 Sling Modifications?

by
posted on June 25, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Cmp1903qa
The M1903s recently offered through the CMP had been issued by the Greeks. Unlike this standard M1903A3, unusual sling swivel patterns intended for cavalry use have been observed.

Q. Some time ago I purchased a Springfield Model 1903A3 from the Civilian Marksmanship Program. The rifle had an unusual modification by the addition of a second set of swivels. I have not been able to obtain any information regarding this modification. Please let me know if you have any information.


A. All of the various types of M1903s recently sold through the CMP were formally in the possession of the Greek government. The Greeks were furnished these rifles after World War II under American military aid programs, and they were eventually returned to the United States and subsequently sold via the CMP. Most of the rifles were subjected to various types of modifications while in the possession of the Greeks. The modified sling swivel, as found on your rifle, has been observed on a number of these guns. It is theorized that the modification was performed for use by some type of Greek military mounted unit to make the rifle easier to carry on horseback. In any event, the modification was performed while the rifles were in the possession of the Greek government.

—Bruce N. Canfield


This “Questions & Answers” was featured in the July 2004 issue of American Rifleman. At time of publication, "Questions & Answers" was compiled by Staff, Ballistics Editor William C. Davis, Jr., and Contributing Editors: David Andrews, Hugh C. Birnbaum, Bruce N. Canfield, O. Reid Coffield, Charles Q. Cutshaw, Charles M. Fagg, Angus Laidlaw, Evan P. Marshall, Charles E. Petty, Robert B. Pomeranz, O.D., Jon R. Sundra, Jim Supica, A.W.F. Taylerson, John M. Taylor and John Treakle.

To subscribe to the magazine, visit NRA membership page here and select
American Rifleman as your member magazine.

Latest

Trend Summer Ending
Trend Summer Ending

Numerous Companies Offering Firearm, Ammo Rebates This Fall

Now that summer 2025 is drawing to a close, we'd like to welcome in the rebate season, and this year's specials are hard to ignore!

Preview: North American Arms Sentinel

The Sentinel from North American Arms combines the aesthetic and .22 WMR chambering of the Pug with the Sidewinder’s frame-mounted swing-out cylinder (to the right side, mind you) and far simpler reloading process.

New For 2025: Chiappa Big Badger

Chiappa's Little Badger has long been a popular, affordable, break-action survival rifle chambered for the .22 Long Rifle cartridge. Now, the design has been upsized into the Big Badger, available in several centerfire chamberings.

Preview: Self Reliance Outfitters Pathfinder Canteen Trail Kit

The U.S.G.I. canteen and cup are classic pieces of kit due to their efficient design and durable construction, and they are practically updated in the Self Reliance Outfitters Pathfinder Canteen Trail Kit.

Gun Of The Week: Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR

On this episode, we’re taking a closer look at the latest version of one of the most popular bolt-action rifle platforms out there. This is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 29, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.