Rock-Ola M1 Carbine .30 Sniper Scope Field Conv. Rifle C&R w/ Alaskan Issue
SOLD FOR: $3,001
WOA#: WY231113SM022
Make: Rock-Ola
Model: M1 Carbine
Serial Number: 6073510
Year of Manufacture: March to April, 1944. C&R
Caliber: .30 Carbine
Action Type: Semi Auto, Detachable Magazine
Markings: We did not disassemble the rifle to view the internal markings. The rear of the scope base is set into the reverse dovetail on the top rear of the receiver. We did not want to damage this area by drifting the base in and out of the reverse dovetail.
There is no import mark.The top of the receiver is marked “ROCK-OLA / 6073510” on the rear. The upper tang is marked “ROCK-OLA”. The top of the barrel is marked “ROCK-OLA” along with a “P”. There is no visible barrel date marking. The front sight is marked “P”. The right side of the receiver leg is marked “ROCK-OLA”. The mag release button is marked “M” with “WA” sideways. The front barrel attachment for the scope rail is marked “8247-40”. The bottom of the operating slide block is marked “ROCK-OLA”. The safety lever is marked “J.A.O.”. The scope is marked “ALL-WEATHER”, “THE LYMAN GUN SIGHT CORP. / MADE IN U.S.A. MIDDLEFIELD, CONN”, “ALASKAN”, “B4938” with a patent number. The conical flash hider is marked “HIDER.FLASH.M3.0.
Barrel Length: Approximately 18 Inches.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a post set between two protective wings. The rear sight has been removed to install a scope base. The long 1 piece scope base is secured around a bolt stud at the front of the handguard and in the reverse dovetail cutout on the top rear of the receiver. Two scope rings hold the fixed scope to the base. The scope uses a fine crosshairs reticle. The glass is lighty fogged. There are tiny black flecks at the edges of the tube. The adjustment knobs turn. The scope tube, scope base and scope rings show light scrapes & scuffs. The scope tube also shows light thinning. Overall the scope assembly is in about Very Good condition.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock had a semi pistol grip, Type III barrel band with sling loop & bayonet lug, sling well, sling pass through, and a metal buttplate. The buttplate shows discoloration and surface erosion. The wood shows several compression lines; most are small. The LOP measures 13.25 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition as refinished.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray. The rifling is crisp. There is minor erosion throughout in the grooves and lands. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 60% of its metal finish. The metal shows scuffs, scrapes and areas of discoloration from oxidation. There thinning on the leading edges. There are some spots of corrosion on the exterior of the barrel, barrel band, and trigger guard. The markings are deep. The screw heads are tool marked. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a 30rd M2 magazine in Very Good condition.
Our Assessment: This Rock-Ola M1 Carbine, distinguished by its sniper scope field conversion, is a captivating piece of military history, especially with the inclusion of a military-issued Lyman Alaskan Scope, identifiable by its ‘B’ prefix serial number. Originating from the Rock-Ola Manufacturing Corporation, famously known for jukeboxes, this firearm is a testament to American industrial versatility during World War II. The adaptation with a sniper scope, particularly popular during the Korean War, exemplifies the ingenuity of American soldiers in enhancing the carbine’s long-range accuracy to suit the demanding terrains and varied combat scenarios. The Lyman Alaskan Scope, valued for its durability and clarity, further elevates the firearm’s status, confirming its military issue rather than a post-war civilian addition. This specific combination of the lightweight and reliable Rock-Ola M1 Carbine with the precision-enhancing Lyman Alaskan Scope not only represents a unique blend of historical significance and practical utility but also stands as a rare collector’s item, embodying the evolving dynamics of military weaponry. Add the M3 Flash Hider and you have an outstanding exemplar for any military collection worth bragging to everyone about. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.