Given the yellowish color of the grain (observed in sections of the stock where the finish is worn), I was wondering if this is Italian walnut. Here are a few of my questions: how can you tell an Italian walnut stock from an American one? The stock on my rifle is a field replacement with only the proof-mark intact. That being said, I think I can safely say my rifle did go to war in the Philippines. The picture of soldiers I provided is the only pic I've been able to find that's related to my rifle these soldiers are members of the 30th USV Inf, company G. The 30th USV Inf shipped out for the Philippines in late October of 1899 and didn't return until sometime in 1901? Information about this particular regiment is very scarce on the internet, but the search continues. My rifle is documented in the SRS documents as being built at the Springfield Armory around March of 1899, and was shipped from the Armory to company C of the 30th United States Volunteer Infantry (this regiment was raised specifically for the Philippine-American War). Recently I had an SRS check done on the serial number (173147) and it checked out. I'm proud to be a part of the team and intend to be a continuing contributor.
