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Opinions on this M1A1

Printed From: The Carbine Collector's Club
Category: The Club
Forum Name: General Discussion
Forum Description: Carbine Related
URL: http://www.uscarbinecal30.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=2847
Printed Date: Mar 28 2024 at 6:09pm
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 12.01 - http://www.webwizforums.com


Topic: Opinions on this M1A1
Posted By: DaveDej
Subject: Opinions on this M1A1
Date Posted: Mar 19 2017 at 3:59pm
I have the opportunity to purchase [locally] this M1A1 Augusta Arsenal rebuild  with an Inland serial# 6,417,xxx drop-in. I assume this serial# is of too late production to be considered correct for an M1A1, and probably doesn't matter anyway as I understand different manufacturer's receivers were
also put into these stocks during rebuilds. The owner allowed me to photograph it today with the intention of doing further research. The stock appears to be all original and in excellent condition.  I did not remove the handguard for inspection. As I am planning to purchase a late production carbine and restore it to
"as issued" condition, I am thinking of purchasing this M1A1 and selling the stock to help finance the restoration. Asking price is $1875.00
I'm wondering if the stock alone might be nearly that valuable?
Good deal, average deal, or great deal?
I'm far from an expert here, so I'd greatly appreciate members' comments.
Thanks,
Dave

 


-------------
DD



Replies:
Posted By: m1a1fan
Date Posted: Mar 19 2017 at 6:54pm
The S/N is within the upper limits of the 2nd production range. Serial number and arsenal rebuild information can be found here:

http://www.uscarbinecal30.com/modelM1A1.html" rel="nofollow - http://www.uscarbinecal30.com/modelM1A1.html

The ask is within the range for an Augusta Arsenal rebuild. In this case, it looks like it has been there twice. Rebuilds are a nice alternative to the real deal as they aren't nearly as expensive as an original, usually contain GI parts and were still processed by gov't facilities.


Posted By: dejdav
Date Posted: Mar 20 2017 at 2:14pm
Thanks TS:

In that case, I think the carbine should be kept intact. The parts are said to be all Inland and the barrel date is 7/44 so it may be original to the rifle. Obviously the barreled receiver probably was not kept with the stock since it was Arsenal rebuilt, but at least everything is in the correct timeframe.
I'll ask to strip it down to verify parts, check muzzle erosion and possibly make an offer.

Dave


Posted By: m1a1fan
Date Posted: Mar 20 2017 at 4:40pm
Whether to restore it or not it up to you, but let's not get ahead of ourselves. M1A1's can be a tricky nut to crack. Originals are much harder than arsneal and re-pops to identify but there is still work to do. You're lucky you are able to inspect and vet it including taking it apart. Since you will be able to inspect it some questions I would want answered before making any offer.

Is there an OI inside the bottom of the stock near the bridge. If not, are there any other letters on the inside of the stock or the rails?
Is the bridge there at all, I've seen them removed. Have also seen M2 cutouts.
Is there a cartouche on the pistol grip? I do not see any in your pictures. Check the bottom of the pistol grip for markings.
Is the letter P anywhere on the pistol grip?
Think a 7/44 barrrel is too early for that S/N. 7/44 barrel date found on approx 5.5 million S/N. 6.4 million S/N's typically had approx. 10-11/44 barrels.
What is the number after the "wagon wheel" on the butt plate?

I've seen nice "correct" arsenal examples go for more so I'm weary of what might be wrong with this one.



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