Inland Division / Saginaw “X” Suffix M1 Receiver M1A1 Paratrooper MFD 1943
SOLD FOR: $3,575.00
WOA#: WY240406WM028
Make: Saginaw Gear made receiver for Inland Division of General Motors
Model: M1 Carbine
Serial Number: 941456X
Year of Manufacture: 1943
Caliber: .30 Cal Carbine
Action Type: Semi-Automatic carbine fed by detachable magazines.
Markings:
The top of the receiver is marked, “U.S. CARBINE CAL. 30 M1 / INLAND DIV. 941456X”. The X suffix denotes that the serial number has a duplicate serial number made by the Inland Division. So somewhere there is an Inland Division Receiver with the same Serial number just without the X suffix. Firing proof punch is present.
The left side of the receiver is marked with “SG” for Saginaw Gear.
The magazine release is marked “M”. correct for Inland Division
The rear sight is marked “J.A.O. 7160060” for J.A. Otterbein, correct for Inland Division
The oiler is marked “IS” for International Silver CO. correct for Inland Div.
The right side of the trigger group is marked “INLAND”
The left side of the hammer is marked “I-I” for International Silver CO. correct for Inland Div.
The slide is unmarked
The flip safety is marked “JAO” for J.A. Otterbein, correct for Inland Division
The top of the barrel is marked “P” about 1.5” in front of the gas block and again about mid length, the end of the barrel is marked “INLAND MFG. DIV. / GENERAL MOTORS / 11-43”. The Bottom of the barrel on the flat is stamped with a series of numbers and letters. The top of the barrel just in front of the receiver is marked “J” a Saginaw stamp.
The front sight is stamped with “N” for National Postal Meter.
The barrel band is marked “SA”
The upper handguard is marked “IO” for S.E. Overton CO. correct for Inland
The Inside of the stock is marked “IO” for Inland Overton, The metal buttplate is marked “B257614”, the pie emblem, and “10”. The back of the stock has a circle “P” mark. The bottom of the grip is marked “SA” which was common on M1A1 Stocks made after December of 1944 or used as a replacement part for a damaged stock all of these markings are correct for an M1A1 Stock.
Barrel Length: 18″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade set between protective ears. The rear sight is the later style sliding aperture sight with a knurled windage knob dovetailed to the receiver.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock appears to be a real M1A1 paratrooper low wood stock with a four rivet handguard, second series pistol grip, folding stock with leather cheek piece, brass rivets, checkered cast butt plate, type three barrel band with bayonet lug, and a later flip style safety. The LOP measures about 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The wood on the stock has some minor compressions and marrs, including the characteristic one where the butt plate hits the receiver when folded, but no cracks or chips. The upper handguard shows almost no signs of wear. The stock folds easily, the leather has some scratches, lines and dents but no tears. The brass rivets have patina and some verdigris around the edges. The checkering on the buttplate is sharp and there is caked oil on the reverse side of the checkering. Overall the stock rates in about Fine condition for C&R.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: None.
Type of Finish: Parkerized.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with defined rifling. There is no visible erosion. There is some lead fouling on the lands. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. The metal surfaces have mostly turned green from age with the exception of the rear sight. The friction surfaces on the receiver and bolt show very little wear. There are minimal marks and scratches with the only really notable one on the top of the barrel band. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition for C&R.
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 carbine includes a green canvas sling.
Our Assessment: The Inland Division M1A1 Paratrooper Carbine is a variant of the iconic M1 Carbine, specifically designed for airborne troops during World War II. Manufactured by the Inland Division of General Motors, this carbine is distinguished by its folding metal stock, which made it more compact and easier for paratroopers to carry during jumps. Chambered in .30 Carbine, the M1A1 was lighter and shorter than the standard M1 Garand rifle, offering easier handling and maneuverability in close quarters. The M1A1 Paratrooper Carbine featured a distinctive wire-frame folding stock with a leather cheek pad, allowing it to be easily stowed in a parachute rig or carried more comfortably when on the move. In terms of function, the M1A1 retained the same action as the standard M1 Carbine, operating via a short-stroke gas piston system. The effective range of the .30 Carbine round was around 300 yards, making it suitable for the close- to mid-range engagements often encountered by paratroopers. Today, the Inland Division M1A1 Paratrooper Carbine is highly sought after by collectors and military history enthusiasts. Its unique design, historical importance, and association with the brave airborne troops of World War II add to its allure. This example began its life in Grand Rapids Michigan at the Saginaw Gear factory where the receiver was made. The receiver has a duplicate serial number to an original Inland receiver. When Inland took possession of the receiver to complete the build they added the X suffix to the serial number and then completed the build. This M1A1 appears to be in remarkable shape and carries almost all the correct markings. Please see our High Quality photos and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
