Extremely Rare Calico M1-II Twin M1 Carbine Gatling-Style Semi-Auto Weapon

SOLD FOR: $3,006.00

LSB#:

• WY250408GF019 (Plainfield M1 Carbine S/N: 35180)
  
   
• WY250408GF020 (Plainfield M1 Carbine S/N: 4754)
  
   

Make: Plainfield Machine Co. (x2) / Calico Light Weapon Systems (M1-II Frame Kit)

Model: Plainfield M1 Carbine (Mounted in Calico M1-II System)

Serial Numbers:

• S/N: 35180
  
   
• S/N: 4754
  
   

Year of Manufacture: Estimated 1970s–1980s (Plainfield carbines); Calico kit c.1984

Caliber: .30 Carbine (7.62x33mm)

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Gatling-Style Manually Indexed Dual-Fire System

Barrel Length: 19″

Sights / Optics: Both carbines retain their original front sight posts and adjustable rear aperture sights.

Configuration & Accessories:
This listing offers a complete and exceptionally rare Calico M1-II semi-automatic dual-carbine system, featuring:

• Two fully functional Plainfield M1 Carbines, mounted side-by-side
  
   
• Original Calico M1-II manually cranked dual-mount frame
  
   
• Original Calico tripod
  
   
• 2x 30-round magazines
  
   
• Original Calico wooden shipping crate
  
   
• Period Calico promotional materials, including:
  
  
  • Factory-printed “Rapid Fire Weapon System” advertisement
    
     
  • Original factory instruction “NOTE” sheet
    
     
  • Calico-branded folder and marketing insert touting military and law enforcement use
    
     

Finish Originality: Original on all components

Bore Condition (Both Carbines):
The bores are semi-bright with strong rifling and light fouling. In this writer’s opinion, both bores rate 8.5/10.

Overall Condition:
The system is in Good to Very Good condition overall. The Calico M1-II frame shows moderate handling wear but is mechanically solid. The Plainfield carbines show scattered finish wear and handling marks consistent with age and use, and the hardwood stocks are intact with no cracks or repairs. The tripod is complete and functional. The wooden crate retains its original hardware and stenciling, showing expected aging. The promotional materials are exceptionally well-preserved and rarely seen with surviving examples of this system.

Mechanics:
The Calico crank system operates as designed, alternately actuating each carbine’s trigger. Both rifles cycle properly when tested manually, and the system interfaces cleanly with the tripod for stable operation. As always, a full cleaning and inspection by a qualified gunsmith is recommended prior to firing.

Our Assessment:
The Calico M1-II is among the most unusual civilian firearm kits of the 1980s. This crank-operated mount accepts two semi-automatic M1 Carbines in a side-by-side, manually indexed configuration that mimics Gatling-style operation. While never widely adopted, its sheer novelty and mechanical ingenuity made it an instant collector’s item.

This example is not only complete—it includes the original wood crate, tripod, factory ad, and instructional paperwork—making it one of the most desirable examples known to exist. For collectors of Cold War curiosities, experimental systems, or twin-gun configurations, the Calico M1-II represents a rare convergence of function, form, and fun. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.