This is a very nice original and unaltered Spanish American War Vintage Model 1896 service rifle. The receiver is marked "U.S. / MODEL 1896, SPRINGFIELD ARMORY." and the serial number. This rifle has all the original features, like the, butt-trap compartment, three piece cleaning rod and oiler in the butt, curved, toe, longer handguard that extends over the receiver, 1896 style rear sight, and the two-strap upper barrel band. The stock is the correct finger groove model with a boxed" JSA / 1898" cartouche, very faint) and a restamped circled "P" on the wrist behind the trigger guard. Fixed front sight and adjustable rear sight to 1800 yards. Complete with a brass muzzle/front sight cover and brown leather military sling.

Fine. The barrel retains approximately 95% of the faded original finish with some thinning at the muzzle end. Much of the receiver is a smooth brownish patina with strong traces of blue finish in protected areas. The magazine retains 90% of the finish with light spotting or pin-prick pitting under the blue. The trigger guard is thinning and retains most of the finish. The buttplate is a smooth brownish patina. The sling is good showing moderate wear and overall age cracking. The lightly sanded stock is in very good condition showing minimal handling marks and a just visible cartouche.