What is the history of Springfield model 87m made by J Stevens Arms Co Chicopee Mass?

Answer 1

I own one myself. It used to be an automatic weapon, was used in training for the military in World War II. Made in the 40's (approx 43-48)as far as I can tell styled after the Marine Core practise rifle. Unique thing about it is that although the rifle seems to be updated for semi automatic use, a good chunk of the original automatic firing mechanism is still there. So when you go to pull the trigger, if you hold the trigger the breach will stay open. In other words if you don't release the trigger after firing, the breach will stay open. This lets out to much gas and the load mechanism fails making it jam (most of the time). This can be fixed by using it like a service rifle and pulling the trigger quickly, then releasing quickly, this way there is enough gas to load the chamber for semi auto fire. Also it has the M1 style front bead with those "wings" on either side of it to keep it protected (reminders of its Marine Core history). If you purchased this firearm I recommend you take heed what I mentioned about the trigger locking, and take it into consideration. Other then that, the gun is very accurate, especially on single shot mode (lever depressed in when closed), and is a very good gun. This particular one was my grandfathers father, so my great grandfathers, who was in action during WW II. When it was made into civilian model it was one of the first guns he bought upon returning home. Hope this helps.

Almost all of the above information is incorrect. Better info can be found at: http://parallaxscurioandrelicfirearmsforums.yuku.com/forums/77