What was the standard of accuracy for U.S. M1 Garand and 1903A3 rifles in World War II? I refer to generally issued rifles and not those specially chosen for accuracy.

M1:

https://www.m14forum.com/threa...0out%20a%206.1%20MOA.

03A3:

https://www.milsurps.com/showthread.php?t=63038

Many thanks. Your links provide what I wanted clearly.

I think the problem might be the ammo.

Even today, general military ammo is awful in accuracy.

There is no problem to solve; tactical doctrine does not require bench rest level accuracy. But especially in the US, our small arms development has been governed by target shooters. Look at other countries' small arms; the user is not allowed to adjust the sights at all. Range only.
So, 3-4 MOA is fine.
Same as the 1861 US Rifle-Musket.
Yes, ammo is important, but the M1 and M14 have a lot of moving parts and are not held together by anything solid.
The M16 series is very accurate.

Standard unknown. But, my father shot consistent groups inside 3 inches at 300 yards during training. Guess it was a 1903A1 rifle. He was asked to become a sniper. So, that was excellent shooting.

Had a Springfield sporter in the 60's (unk. make or groove barrel) that would shoot 1 1/4" 5 shot groups at 100 yds. with unk. headstamped armor piercing military ammo.

Hip

P.S. But then again----I am a very great shot!

ref. P.S. Bet I could out-shoot you with one eye closed. HAH! Maybe not. Clarity is only 95% anymore.

quote:

Originally posted by Hipshoot:
Had a Springfield sporter in the 60's (unk. make or groove barrel) that would shoot 1 1/4" 5 shot groups at 100 yds. with unk. headstamped armor piercing military ammo.

Hip

P.S. But then again----I am a very great shot!

That wouldn't be fair as I am deaf in one ear and blind in the other!

Hip