M1A1 stock

[Hercules Powder]

I was looking at an M1A1 over the weekend mid 5 mil serial number that I was thinking about buying.

My question is in regards to the stock.

The folding part looked correct. The handgrip and handguard are walnut and the handgrip has RI and small crossed cannon stamped on the bottom. The main part looked like a closer grained wood like birch or maple and is a lighter tone of brown. It has IO in the slide well and a RIA over EB on the rear left side. Would that have been original or replaced during the rebuild process?

Unfortunately, we did have the camera with us.

Thanks in advance,
John

Information

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[frankderrico]

John, I don't think there were any birch or maple M1A1 stocks made Oveton. The stamps sound O.K. but pictures sure would help. How much lighter was the stock? I'm sure others on the forum will share some input.....Frank

P.S. was it at a private party, gun show, shop? Can you ask them if you can take some pics?

[Hercules Powder]

Thanks Frank

The reason I asked this question was the IO stamp inside the stock through me. From what little information I could in the books I have on post war M1A1 stocks they were not made by Overton. I also looked through the acrhives here but did not find anything in previous posts.

The color and grain are noticeably different. I realize walnut as well as most woods can have very different grain patterns and textures which could cause a variation in color. I didn’t think that was the case on this one; but that maybe all it is.

It would be a private party transaction so I may be able to get pictures over the weekend.

John

[BrianQ]

I the handgrip has RI and small crossed cannon stamped on the bottom.

On the bottom or on the side of the hand grip?

[frankderrico]

John, if you can get some pics of the stampings that would sure help.
There have been some M1A1 stocks and parts of stocks, and fake stamps coming and going on E-Bay. Those stocks and parts could be put together to make up a complete stock. Drop in a rifle and you have an M1A1.
I would try to get some info on the rifle from the owner. How long have they owned it? Whare did they get it? Do you feel they are being honest? It may be a legit rifle, but before you put alot out for the M1A1 it will pay to do some homework, and get some opinions. JMHO&HTH.....Frank