WW2 CMP US Winchester Model M1 Caliber 30 Carbine (Original)
SKU: US M1 CARBINE WINCHESTER
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: Winchester
Date Manufactured:
Model: M1
Serial Number: 1133151
Caliber: .30 Carbine
Magazine: 15 rounds
Barrel Length: 18"
Total Length: 35.6 in (900 mm)
Bore Condition: 9.5/10
Action: Gas-operated, rotating bolt
Rate of fire: 60–70 aimed rounds/min (M1/A1) 750 rounds/min
Effective firing range: 300 Yards
Elevation Setting
Rear Sight: Type II
Front Sight: Type I-D Stamped R
Feed system: 15-round detachable box magazine
Condition: 97%/Excellent
Price: $2600.00
Seller Type: Classification: C&R / FFL
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: CA-2000
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
WW2 CMP US Winchester Model M1 .30 caliber semi-automatic carbine. First Production Block. Top of receiver stamped US Carbine - Cal 30 M1. Barrel stamped W. Trigger stamped 59. Stock stamped W.R.A. over G.H.D. and ordnance wheel. Type II rear sight. Type I-D front sight stamped R. Type III safety. High-wood, oval-cut stock. Steel butt plate. Web Sling. One magazine stamped LU. CMP Certificate. Condition: Barrel: Light finish loss with light scuffs. Bore: Light wear with good rifling. Receiver: Light finish loss with light scuffs. Stock: Light wear. Mechanically good.
History
The M1 Carbine stands as one of the most iconic American small arms of World War II, designed to provide U.S. troops with a lightweight, reliable, and effective weapon that bridged the gap between the standard M1911 .45 pistol and the heavier M1 Garand service rifle. Among the most significant and sought-after variants is the Winchester-produced M1 Carbine, chambered in .30 Carbine (7.62x33mm).
Development & Adoption
In 1940, the U.S. Army issued a request for a light rifle suitable for support troops, paratroopers, and others needing more firepower than a pistol but without the weight of the M1 Garand. Winchester, leveraging its extensive firearms experience, developed a design that was adopted as the M1 Carbine in October 1941.
The weapon was lightweight at approximately 5.2 lbs, semi-automatic, and fed from a 15-round detachable box magazine, making it far more maneuverable than the Garand or Thompson submachine gun in many combat environments.
Winchester Production
Although numerous contractors manufactured M1 Carbines during WWII, Winchester Repeating Arms Company was both the designer and one of the primary producers. Between 1942 and 1945, Winchester manufactured approximately 828,000 carbines, with serial numbers falling within distinct production blocks.
Features of Winchester-made carbines include:
- Marked receiver: “Winchester” or abbreviated “W.R.A.”
- Early production: Flip-up rear sight, flat bolt, and high-wood stock.
- Later production: Adjustable rear sights, round bolts, and low-wood stocks as upgrades were implemented during the war.
Service in WWII
The M1 Carbine quickly became a favorite among soldiers, paratroopers, engineers, medics, and officers. It was especially valued by troops in the European Theater and Pacific Theater, where its lightweight design was ideal for jungle combat.
Key advantages included:
- Easy handling and quick target acquisition.
- More firepower and range than a pistol.
- Light ammunition, allowing soldiers to carry more rounds.
However, some criticized its .30 Carbine cartridge for lacking stopping power compared to the .30-06 of the Garand, especially against heavily clothed or entrenched enemies. Despite this, its effectiveness in close-to-medium range engagements made it indispensable.
Historical Significance
By the war’s end, over 6 million M1 Carbines had been produced by 10 different contractors, making it the most widely manufactured U.S. small arm of World War II. Winchester’s examples remain especially prized by collectors due to their historical connection as the originating manufacturer.
Collectability Today
Original Winchester M1 Carbines with matching parts, correct wartime features, and untouched finishes command significant interest among militaria collectors. Variants such as early production “first block” Winchesters, carbines with original flip sights, or paratrooper-configured M1A1 folding stock versions are particularly desirable.
