M1917 US Enfield Rifle

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	Weapon: M1917 US Enfield Rifle Type: Infantry Rifle Country of Origin: United States Caliber: .30-06 Springfield Action: Bolt-Action

The M1917 US Enfield Rifle, also known as the "American Enfield," was originally derived from the British Pattern 1914 (P14) rifle, modified and chambered for the U.S. .30-06 Springfield cartridge. Featuring a bolt-action design with a five-round magazine, the M1917 was built by Remington, Eddystone, and Winchester to serve as an alternative to the M1903 Springfield when the U.S. entered World War I. Its heavy barrel, robust construction, and large aperture sights made it highly accurate and reliable, particularly in rugged battlefield conditions.

To meet wartime demand, more than 2 million M1917 rifles were manufactured between 1917 and 1919, with the majority of U.S. troops in World War I actually carrying the M1917 over the M1903 due to its wider availability. After the war, many M1917 rifles were placed in reserve but saw service again in World War II and were provided to allies under the Lend-Lease program. Its accuracy and durability made it a trusted weapon for U.S. forces, and surplus rifles were later sold to civilians, furthering its legacy among collectors and marksmen.

The M1917 US Enfield gained notoriety for its central role in WWI as the primary rifle of American forces, despite being initially intended for British use. Known for its reliability and precision, the M1917 has a unique place in history, often viewed as one of the most effective bolt-action service rifles of the 20th century. Today, it remains a sought-after collectible, celebrated for its contribution to the American war effort and its lasting reputation as a dependable and accurate firearm.