CMP International Harvester IHC Post War M1 Garand .30-06 Semi-Auto Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,778.00
LSB#: LSB251209RR001
Make: International Harvester Co., IHC
Model: M1 Garand
Serial Number: 5010071
Year of Manufacture: 1954, 8-54 dated LMR barrel.
Caliber: .30-06 Springfield
Action Type: Semi Auto, En Bloc Clip Fed
Markings:
Receiver: “U.S. RIFLE / CAL. .30 M1 / INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER / 5010071”
Trigger Group: “6528290-SA”
Hammer: “C46008-3 SA”
Follower: unmarked
Safety: “HRA”
Receiver Leg: “D6528291-P”.
Op Rod: “6535382 HRA”
Bolt: “D28287-12SA B8”
Barrel: “P LMR D6535448 8 54 A35 P M” There is also a small DOD cartouche. This is a Line Material Co barrel.
The gas plug is marked “NHC”
The gas cylinder: “57”
The right side of the rear sight adjustment knob is marked “DRC”, “LEFT” in two places with two counter clockwise arrows.
The elevation knob is marked “IHC” and 2-12 in increments of two.
Stock wrist: “316”
Barrel Length: 24″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade set between two protective wings. The rear sight is a fully adjustable aperture sight set between two protective wings.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The hardwood stock has a semi-pistol grip, metal nose cap, two sling loops, stacking loop, and a metal butt plate with hinged metal door for storage in the buttstock. The LOP measures 13″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the butt plate. The wood has been sanded and refinished. The wood shows scattered handling wear with scattered marks and compressions ranging from small to medium in size. There are a few very small scattered chips on the edges of the wood. The rear handguard has a crack at the 12 o’clock position coming from the rear band going towards the receiver. There is a notable compression on the comb. The butt plate has lost most of its finish and shows rub wear around the edges. The door spring is strong. Overall the wood is in about Good condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is very minor erosion/pitting on the edges of the lands throughout the bore. Our gauges show a muzzle of 2 and a throat of 2. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8.75/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 88% of its metal finish. The friction surfaces of the bolt and receiver show minor rub wear. The barrel, gas lock, gas cylinder, trigger group and receiver all show thinning finish. The edges of the op rod show thinning finish as well. The action is fairly smooth. The markings are clear and the screw heads are sharp. Overall all this rifle is in about Good+-Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle includes a Green canvas sling, CMP/DCM Certificate of Authenticity, en bloc clip, CMP chamber flag, manual and paperwork.
Our Assessment: The International Harvester M1 Garand holds a distinct place in the lineage of this iconic rifle. Born out of the necessity to ramp up production after World War II, International Harvester, primarily known for agricultural machinery, stepped into firearm manufacturing. From 1952 to 1956, the company produced M1 Garand rifles at its Evansville, Indiana, plant, contributing to the war effort and subsequent military needs. Despite its newcomer status in firearm production, International Harvester upheld the high standards set by established manufacturers. The M1 Garand rifles produced by IHC are known for their quality craftsmanship and reliability. Chambered in .30-06 Springfield and utilizing an eight-round en bloc clip, these rifles performed admirably. Today, the International Harvester M1 Garand holds significant collectible value. Its limited production span and distinct history contribute to its appeal among firearms enthusiasts and collectors. Beyond its collectibility, the rifle stands as a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of American industry during wartime, showcasing how companies like International Harvester played a crucial role in arming the nation’s military forces. This specific rifle features an LMR (Line Material Company) barrel dated 8-1954, which is correct for many IHC Garands. LMR barrels were highly regarded for their quality and accuracy, and IHC frequently used them in their production. In the broader context of military history, the M1 Garand, in general, holds a revered position. As one of the first semi-automatic rifles widely adopted by a major military power, it revolutionized infantry tactics and firepower. The International Harvester variant, with its unique story and contributions, remains a cherished piece of this larger narrative, embodying the spirit of American innovation and resilience. Please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L./MA