WWII Saginaw Gear S’G’ M1 Carbine 18”.30cal Semi Auto Rifle U.S. C&R 1943
SOLD FOR: $1,577.00
LSB#: 241207AA209
Make: Saginaw SG. Saginaw Steering Gear Division of General Motors– Saginaw, Michigan.
Model: M1 Carbine.
Serial Number: 1850632
Year of Manufacture: Receiver between July and September of 1943, the barrel date is 9-1943.
Caliber: .30 Carbine
Action Type: Semi Auto, fed by Detachable Magazines.
Markings:
The top of the receiver is marked “U.S. CARBINE / CAL. 30 M1” and “SAGINAW S’G’ / 1850632”. The left side is marked with a “W”. There is a firing proof punch present.
The barrel is marked “UNDERWOOD / 9-43” with a flaming bomb. There is also a “P” about midlength. Correct for Saginaw Gear in this Serial range.
The front sight is marked with an off center “P”.
The barrel band is marked “JM” a post war rebuild part.
The slide is marked “SG” for Saginaw Gear
The rear sight is marked “I.R.C.O. 7160060”-for International Register CO.
The bolt is marked “-C-U-” Underwood Elliot Fisher Bolt.
The mag release is marked “MWA”.
The hammer is unmarked
The trigger group is unmarked
The Rotary style safety is marked “P”
The lug is unmarked.
The upper handguard is unmarked.
The stock is marked with a square “P” and a circle “P” on the front of the grip.
The oiler is unmarked
Barrel Length: Approximately 18 Inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade set between protective ears. The rear sight is a later style sliding aperture sight with a knurled windage knob dovetailed to the receiver.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is an I cut, low wood, with four rivet handguard, type 3 band with bayonet lug, later style rotary safety and metal checkered buttplate. The LOP measures 13.25 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The upper handguard shows minimal wear with a chip missing from the right side rear rivet hole. The stock has been lightly sanded as a result it shows only scattered light wear with a notable rub mark on the belly near the toe of the stock. The wood does show some scattered very small nicks in the finish of the wood. The metal buttplate has lost its finish, turned brown, has rub wear around the edges and surface rust. There are no visible cracks in the stock. Overall the stock rates in about Good + condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is well defined. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The receiver shows some surface rust towards the rear, as does the lug, exposed portion of the barrel and front sight. The barrel band shows discoloration in the finish. The friction surfaces of the bolt and receiver show a little rub wear. The trigger also shows some surface rust. The screw heads are sharp, the markings are mostly clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good+ condition.
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.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This M1 includes a green canvas sling and double mag pouch.
Our Assessment: The Saginaw Gear M1 Carbine is a significant variant of the iconic M1 Carbine, produced during World War II by the Saginaw Steering Gear Division of General Motors. The M1 Carbine itself was a lightweight, semi-automatic rifle designed to provide greater firepower than the standard-issue sidearm while being more portable than the M1 Garand. Saginaw Steering Gear Division, located in Saginaw, Michigan, was one of several companies contracted by the U.S. government to manufacture the M1 Carbine. Production of the M1 Carbine by Saginaw Gear began in 1943 and continued through the end of World War II. The company was chosen for its expertise in precision engineering and manufacturing, essential for the production of reliable military firearms. The Saginaw Gear M1 Carbine, like other variants, is chambered in .30 Carbine. It operates on a short-stroke gas piston system, allowing for semi-automatic fire. The rifle has an effective range of about 300 yards, making it suitable for various combat roles, from close-quarters engagements to medium-range skirmishes. Today, the Saginaw Gear M1 Carbine is a sought-after collector’s item due to its historical significance and being manufactured by Saginaw Steering Gear. The M1 Carbine, in general, remains a popular choice among collectors and shooters for its historical value, reliability, and ease of use. This example has the typical yet unique mixture of parts including the Underwood Elliot Fisher barrel and bolt. Underwood, famous for making typewriters, is in fact correct for a Saginaw receiver. In summary, this Saginaw Gear M1 Carbine is a notable variant of the M1 Carbine produced during World War II by the Saginaw Steering Gear Division of General Motors. Known for its reliable performance and lightweight design, this rifle served various roles during the war and is highly regarded by collectors and enthusiasts for its historical significance and quality craftsmanship. Please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
