^Lot 1370 U.S. WWI ERA ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL "WOODEN RIFLE"

BAYONET TRAINER. This interesting trainer is described on pages 104 and 105 of "The Springfield 1903 Rifles by Brophy". The book refers to the 1913 manual of the bayonet which describes the use of this wooden rifle which was used in conjunction with gloves, masks and plastrons. The issue "RIA" marked wooden rifles appear to be manufactured from dense mahogany. The "rifle" measures approximately 59 3/4" overall. 1 5/8" thick. Prominently marked "R.I.A. / 1914" on the left side and "7" on the right side. The outline resembles a rifle with a bayonet, while the bayonet has a rounded leather-covered pad affording some protection to the victim. The "rifle" is reinforced with three vertical iron rivets and interestingly has a grasping groove on one side only in the forend area. CONDITION: trainer is in very good condition with light wear and handling marks. There are scattered age cracks running lengthwise with the grain. The buttstock has more notable fine cracks throughout. Leather pad has light wear and scuffing. PROVENANCE: From the BuckStix Collection. (02-26027/RW). NON-GUN. $400-600.