US rifle cleaning kit?

[blinky]

I posted this in the US section but I'm hoping one of the "gun guys" might be able to help me with this.

I'm not at all familiar with this set, what are the wires for? The only markings are the date and letters under the flap and a service number on the back. Can anyone give me a little more information on it?

Thanks in advance

Eric

[blinky]

stamp

[blinky]

yikes....I thought this one would be simple

[Brian George]

I think it's a barracks rod for the '03 Springfield.

At any rate, it's called a barracks rod beacuse that's where it was kept. There was one per squad or something like that. The '03 didn't come with a cleaning rod. There is a reason behind the egg shaped handle, but I've forgotten it.

Brian

[blinky]

Thank you very much Brian Are the wires part of the kit? The original owner was in cavalry in the 1930's and later the artillery. It really hasn't been touched since 1942.

Eric

[leondes]

Hi Eric,

The book "The Springfield 1903 Rifles" by Brophy shows this kit on page 389. It is identified as a Barracks Cleaning Rod, Model 1916. It also shows a wire brush tip in addition to the button tip. It does not show the wires that you have in your picture.

Regards, Leon

[blinky]

Thank you too Leon. I guess the wire bit will stay a mystery.
I really appreciate the help!

Eric