Finally, a M1 Carbine that I can call mine

[CarolinaM1s]

Just joined your forum so that I can learn from the experts that post here. Benn lurking a bit previously. I was finally able to pick up my first M1 Carbine from a family friend and was really excited about getting a piece of history that I have wanted since I was a boy. He wanted it to go to a "good home" and I was very pleased to adapt it. Was not looking for a "pure" collectable M1 Carbine; just not a replica...something with a history in good shape. Certainly won't be a primary range rifle but will be shot occasionally. Heck, I am thrilled in just saying I have one. I have found out a few things about my carbine but want to hear more from this forum in regards to what I have acquired. Now some specifics about it. The carbine that I have has an Inland receiver (serial number 490xxx, Inland barrel (stamped 7-43), with a flat bolt. It has been through the refurb process with all the updates that I see but seems to be very consistent with manufactured parts. It does have a Type III barrel band again from Inland (stamped AI) and what I would guess is a replacement high wood stock since it is stamped with OI (Overton for Inland) in the sling groove (which is not "I" cut) but has no other stamps or cartouches that I could find (no "P" on butt grip or cross cannons on stock side). It also has the adjustable sight rather than what I would assume would be the correct flip sight. Another example of refurb; it has the flip/toggle safety (stamped small OC over a large M) instead of a push/crossbolt one. I have not completely stipped it yet so do not know how the other parts are stamped. In checking the serial number with a table I found the gun is from March '43. Not interested in value since I am not looking to part with it but would like any more details or specifics about my new "war baby" that you experts could provide. Any info or details as to what I have would be greatly appreciated. Suggestions on reading material and reference sites where I can learn more about the M1 Carbine would also be appreciated. Thrilled to be part of this "family of owners" and I look forward to continuing to read all the posts here.

Information

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[mpd1978]

Barrel is probably original and an IO marked highwood stock is correct, so is a flat bolt. The best books are the ones by Larry Ruth, War Baby! and War Baby comes home. They are more expensive than some, but are the only ones worth owning IMO.
Have fun and post some pics when you can

[Bruce McAskill]

Your serial number would indicate about July 1943 for when it was built. The barrel is most likely original to the carbine.

[ulflyer]

Field strip it and see what the slide, bolt, and trigger housing is marked. You'll also be able to see what the hammer is marked as well. If you're ever down Lexington NC way I'd be glad to show you how to take apart the trigger housing to check the trigger and sear, and I have a tool to strip the bolt so you can check the extractor and firing pin for marks. I'm going to be at the Greensboro show this weekend in case you come down. Hoping to be in the middle room, left wall, and will have the bolt tool with me if you want to bring it along. You can check out the carbines I have to sell as well.

[INLAND44]

Are you sure the 'small OC over a large M' is not on the magazine release rather than the safety? To me, if you have the 'big 3' (receiver, barrel and trigger housing) of the original carbine, you have a good piece.

[CarolinaM1s]

Hey Inland44, you are correct. My bad. Those stamps (large M with a smaller OC over it) are in fact on the mag release, not the safety. Will post some pictures over the weekend. Thanks to everybody for the info and comments. Always glad to hear what you guys say.