Synopsis:

Scarce Canadian Ross Rifle, MK II with 3* sight and handguard, this example having U.S. markings below trigger guard, complete with correct bayonet. One of 20,000 purchased in 1917 for U.S. Military training: about half were sent to New York for the State Guard, while the other half were divided between Camp Sherman, Ohio, and Camp Devens, Massachusetts.

Description:

Standard configuration Ross Rifle Co. MK II 3* straight-bolt action rifle chambered in .303 British with hooded ramp front sight and fine tunable ladder style rear sight graded 20-320. “ROSS RIFLE CO QUEBEC, CANADA. 1905./PATENTED” on the left receiver sidewall. Largely unmarked other than the prominent buttstock markings. Canadian markings include Quebec rondel “3*/II” “C5.12/C/23.AB/70/831BJ/1910” reflecting SN 831BJ and production year 1910. After purchase by the United States the rifle was additionally marked with “(flaming bomb)/U.S./4219” below the trigger guard. Smooth metal trapdoor buttplate with no contents. Complete with correct bayonet and leather frog, marked with various dates found on both the frog and the bayonet pummel.

Condition:

G/VG original finish on metal parts including the color-case hardening on the bolt and handle. Comparable condition stock and handguard with oil darkening and various handling marks, bruises. Bright bore sharp rifling. Correct manual mechanics. Comparable condition bayonet and scabbard though the in the white blade has been polished and sharpened. An interesting developmental rifle, one of the first to have a straight pull action, especially nice when offered with an original bayonet!