WWII Early Winchester M1 Carbine .30 cal Semi-Auto U.S. Rifle C&R 1944

SOLD FOR: $1575

WOA#: WY230327MH001

Make: Winchester

Model:  U.S. M1 Carbine

Serial Number:  5674137

Year of Manufacture: 1944

Caliber: .30 Cal Carbine

Action Type: Semi-Automatic

Markings: The top of the receiver is marked “U.S. CARBINE CAL. .30 M1 / WINCHESTER TRADEMARK 5674137”.  The crossbolt safety button is marked “EW”. The mag release button is marked “M”.  The top of the barrel has a Winchester Proof Mark of a circled W within an I .  The bottom of the barrel is marked “IOINC MELB FL / M1 CARBINE .30 CAL. USA”.  The bottom of the trigger group is marked “59”.  The left side of the rear sight is marked “9”.  The right side of the trigger group is marked “W”.  The right side of the hammer is marked “S”.  The bottom of the receiver in front of the magwell is marked “C”.  The bottom of the chamber is marked with proofs.  The right side of the buttstock is marked “W.R.A. / G.H.D” with crossed cannons.  The upper tang is marked “W”.  

Barrel Length: 18”

Sights / Optics:  The rear sight is an early L-Type Aperture sight dovetailed to the receiver.  The front sight is a fixed post between two protective ears.  

Stock Configuration & Condition:  The stock is an original Winchester M1 Carbine stock with large traditional pistol grip, straight comb, sling well, and checkered steel buttplate.  The barrel band is a type 2 which started being used Mid 1944.  The Stock is an Oval Oiler Low Cut with straight forend.  The upper handguard is an early issue with only two rivets.  The bolt is an early flat top bolt.  The safety is a cross bolt safety.  The configuration is appropriate for an Early-Mid year Winchester production of 1944.  The LOP measures 13.2” from the front of the trigger to the rear of the buttplate.  There are some compression marks and scratches throughout.  However, there are no chips or cracks.  Overall the Stocks rate in Fine Overall condition as original refurbished. 

Magazine Quantity & Condition:  One “KSG” GI 15rd magazine in Fine condition. The leading edges are sharp and the spring is strong.  There is light operation wear and the magazine is well oiled.    

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The Bore is Semi-Bright and the rifling mostly sharp.  There is some light erosion visible throughout. 

Overall Condition:  This rifle retains about 40% of its original blued finish.  There is thinning throughout as well as some light erosion. The metal shows scrapes and scratches.  There is mild operation wear.  Most of the markings are well defined.  Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good as original with a refurbished original stock.    

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. Has a push button bolt hold open in charging handle.  

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a total of one magazine.

Our Assessment: This Winchester M1 Carbine, dated for early to mid 1944, is a fascinating piece of history that tells a story of innovation and adaptability. The M1 Carbine was designed to fill the gap between the standard issue M1 Garand rifle and the sidearm issued to soldiers during World War II. It was intended to provide troops with a lightweight, compact weapon that was easier to carry and operate in close quarters than the larger and heavier M1 Garand.

Winchester, one of the major manufacturers of the M1 Carbine during World War II, produced over half a million of these rifles for the war effort. The early to mid-1944 models are particularly interesting, as they were produced during a critical time in the war when the Allies were pushing back against Axis forces on multiple fronts.

Owning a piece of history like a Winchester M1 Carbine from this era is not only a collector’s dream but also an opportunity to own a piece of history that played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the war. It is a reminder of the ingenuity and adaptability of the American military during World War II and a tribute to the brave soldiers who carried these rifles into battle.  Please see details below and good luck on your bid.