M1 cleaning kits

[usmc0311]

I'm thinking about attending a local gunshow this weekend and I'm curious to find out what tools went into the cleaning kit of a November 1944 M1 Garand. I got the rifle from a friend who included an original kit but id like to get a more complete kit. So did late '44 models come with the thong tool or just a bunch of combo tools like the M3A1 and M10? Links/pics would be helpfull so I know what to look for. Thanks!

Information

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[browningautorifle]

Give Bill Rica a pm and he will give you the historic poop or visit his website.

[Bill Ricca]

what tools went into the cleaning kit of a November 1944 M1 Garand

M3 Combination Tool was produced from 1939 until 1945. There were two different versions.

M3A1 Combination Tool was produced from late 1943 (one maker only) until mid 1950's, again three different versions.

The long oiler made of nickle coated brass was produced in 1907, WWI, and early WWII.

The long plastic oiler was produced from 1943 thru 1958.

What does all this mean?

All items were in use from beginning until the late 1960's. Your rifle could have been issued any combination of those items, depending upon when it was issued.

Collectors tend to date everything to the date of manufacture, but that is not at all reality. What was issued depends upon when the rifle got to a unit, what type of unit, and what was in the supply system.

[usmc0311]

And im betin there is no way to find out what unit got my rifle or where it went durring WWII and/or Korea?

[Joe W]

Not sure as to when you were in the USMC but in the 1950s, "Page # 20" of your "Service Record Book" contained the record of the M1 that was issued to you. I think yearly, maybe more often, an inspection of your rifle was made, this was referred to as a "Page 20" inspection. As a 2111, (Small Arms Repairman), I assisted in these inspections.
I am sure all these "Record Books" have been deep sixed by now, but if they could be located, there would be a wealth of information as to where certain rifles had been. At least all those in the USMC of the 1950s. Semper Fi, Joe

[usmc0311]

Joe, I was actually in from 2003 to 2007. Your description of a "page 20" inspection is unheard of to me but sounds interesting. Your right, if those papers were still around, i bet theyd make a killin at gun shows and what not.

[Joe W]

Joe, I was actually in from 2003 to 2007. Your description of a "page 20" inspection is unheard of to me but sounds interesting. Your right, if those papers were still around, i bet theyd make a killin at gun shows and what not.

I am sure that by now all records are computerized, but in the 50s and before, a "Service Record Book" was kept for each Marine. It had everything about you in it, your medical records, re-enlistment data,transfers, and that "Page 20". I would love to know if any of them are still boxed up someplace, but I doubt it. Guess they are long gone. Semper Fi, Joe

[gunsmith II]

Another bit of history that became smoke in the Great St. Louis Fire?