M-1 Carbine value question.

Neighbor has a Postal Meter Carbine which he said he purchased from the NRA in the early 60's probably for 20-30$ He is asking 600 for it, probably 98%, with an Underwood 11/43 barrel. Adjustable rear sight and bayonet lug. SN is in the 4 million range. The only problem is that the bolt, trigger and mag release have been chromed. Why I have no idea. Does this destroy the value of what feels like a very solid and otherwise original gun.

Trigger and mag release are parts than can be replaced easily. The bolt is a bit different. Bolts are not hard to find, but you need one that will head space properly. As long as it headspaces, then it is a drop in part also. You can always buy it, shooti it till you find replacement parts.

If it werent chromed it would be a good deal. As is I would pass

Offer him $500 for it.................

$400.00

Offered 5. Waiting to hear.

You are tough...there are people over on the CMP forums that would probably say $800 despite any restoration.

Make sure the stock is USGI if its not I wouldnt pay that money for it. Also keep in mind that it is not and original gun if it has the type 3 barrel band (bayonet lug) and adjustable sights. This means that is most likely went through an arsenal rebuild or someone added them later. Winchester and Inland were the only 2 companies to use these parts on carbines during ww2. If your buying this as something to keep and just shoot then things like this dont matter but if there is a possibility that you might re sell it in the future then in order to get the highest value these details matter.

I would think MOST stocks are USGI (unless it is a brand new Auto Ordnance stock or fancy target stock), no?

Most stocks are USGI, but still may be a replacement M2 stock fitted during a rearsenal.

My estimate was based on what you would have in it after you replaced the chromed parts
By the way, I am one of the guys on the CMP forum

Well I am new there...and I know everything there is to know.

Haha. M1 carbines are great guns...collecting them is more addictive than ARs.

I guess I should of been more clear. Make sure it has all correct markings.

Thanks for all of the helpful info. I am buying it more as a shooter so the finish is not that important. He did tell me it was purchased from the NRA in the early 60's for about 25$ and has essentially sat in his safe since then. Bore is immaculate and the stock is what was on it when purchased. I may try to bead blast the chrome off and then get it reparkerized before I jump into the replacement parts. Hopefully this would not affect the headspacing on the original bolt. BTW he did sell it for 500$.

You cant remove chrome by beadblasting

So much for that idea.

Beg, borrow, but don't steal, or rent a set of headspace gauges (ideally GO and NOGO only, but you can also get the FIELD). Strip the Carbine, and take it to a gunshow and see if you can find someone selling Carbine bolts. Test the bolts untill you find one that closes on a GO, but doesn't close on a NOGO. Then you are good. The "round" bolts are stronger, the flat bolts will probably be more correct. I personally prefer the looks of the flat bolts. The initials of the bolts makes are usually marked on the ends of the locking lugs. Usually at least one letter that matches the maker, so you can match the bolt to the receiver if you choose. Though that is not necessary.

........but the electroplating process can be reversed. Find a good plating shop.

I just may be able to find one here!

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