U.S. Springfield Model 1922 M2 .22LR Trainer Bolt Action Rifle, 1927 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,550.00
WOA#: WY240508BR032
Make: Springfield Armory
Model: M1922 M2
Serial Number: 16169
Year of Manufacture: July 1927 (Date on barrel)
Caliber: .22LR
Action Type: Bolt action, detachable 5 round magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “U.S. SPRINGFIELD ARMORY CAL. .22 M2 16169” The bolt handle is marked, “NS M2 / F” The bolt body is marked, “M2” The safety flag is marked, “READY / SAFE” the mag disconnect tab is marked, “ON / OFF” The side of the barrel shank is marked, “LONG RIFLE CART’GE ONLY” The top of the barrel is marked, “S A / 7 – 27” with a flaming bomb proof. The sight hood is marked “U.S.” with the flaming bomb proof.
Barrel Length: 24.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a dovetailed blade set atop a raised base with a round hood, the rear sight is a fully adjustable peephole sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a single piece walnut with a barrel band/sling loop, finger grooves, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, sling loop, and knurled buttplate. There are minor handling marks throughout. The knurling on the buttplate is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in at about Fine Plus overall condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized.
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 10/10.
Many military and C&R eligible weapons have bores that will show erosion. This is not only due to age but to the fact that corrosive primers were commonly used in ammunition worldwide. For example, the U.S. used corrosive ammunition throughout WWII. The U.S. military did not begin to phase out corrosive-primed ammunition until the 1950s.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are faint scuffs and scratches throughout the metal surfaces. The leading edges are thinning. The action and bolt show some light operational wear. The screw heads show light to moderate use. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine Plus condition as a C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with one 5 round magazine in Excellent condition.
Our Assessment: The U.S. Springfield Model 1922 M2 .22LR Trainer Bolt Action Rifle is a significant firearm in American military history, primarily used for training purposes. Developed by the Springfield Armory, this rifle was introduced in the early 20th century to provide a cost-effective and efficient means of training soldiers in marksmanship. The Model 1922 M2 is chambered in .22 Long Rifle (LR), a caliber chosen for its affordability, low recoil, and widespread availability. This made it ideal for training purposes, allowing new recruits to practice shooting without the expense and physical strain associated with larger calibers. The .22LR cartridge is well-known for its accuracy at short to medium ranges, making it perfect for honing basic shooting skills. The rifle features a high-quality, precision-machined barrel, which contributes significantly to its accuracy. The barrel is typically around 24 inches in length, providing a good balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance. The rifling inside the barrel ensures stable bullet flight, enhancing the rifle’s accuracy and making it a favorite among target shooters and trainers. The Model 1922 M2 includes a five-round detachable magazine, which is relatively easy to load and unload. This magazine capacity is sufficient for training purposes, allowing for multiple shots before needing to reload. The magazine system also helps trainees practice magazine changes and familiarize themselves with the reloading process. The Springfield Model 1922 M2 served as a primary training rifle for the U.S. military for many years. Its role in training new recruits was crucial, as it provided a reliable and accurate platform for teaching fundamental shooting skills. The experience gained with the M2 could be directly transferred to the use of larger service rifles, such as the M1903 Springfield and later the M1 Garand.
Overall, the U.S. Springfield Model 1922 M2 .22LR Trainer Bolt Action Rifle is a historically important firearm used extensively for military training. Its .22LR chambering, smooth bolt-action mechanism, and high-quality construction made it an ideal training tool. The rifle’s accuracy, robust walnut stock, and reliable iron sights ensured that trainees could effectively learn and practice marksmanship. Today, the Model 1922 M2 is celebrated for its historical value and remains a prized piece for collectors and shooting enthusiasts. -R.E.
