Post War International Harvester M1 Garand .30-06 Semi-Auto Rifle 1953 C&R

SOLD FOR: $2,725.00

LSB#: WY250328JS006

Make: International Harvester Co., IHC

Model: M1 Garand, Postage stamp receiver. 

Serial Number: 4459208

Year of Manufacture: 1953, 5-53 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 / 4459208”

Trigger Group: “IHC D6528290”

Hammer: “C-5546008IHC”

Follower: unmarked

Safety: “IHC” 

Receiver Leg: “IHC D6528291-A”. 

Op Rod: “D-6535382 IHC” 

Bolt: “D-6528287 IHC U”  

Barrel: “P LMR D6535448  5  53  A12  P” There is also a small ordnance wheel. This is a Line Material Co barrel.    

The gas plug is marked “NHC IHC”

The right side of the rear sight adjustment knob is marked “ IHC DRC”,  “LEFT” in two places with two counter clockwise arrows.  

The elevation knob is marked “IHC” and 2-12 in increments of two.

The stock has a “P” acceptance stamp on the grip.  

Barrel Length: Approximately 24 Inches

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 buttplate with hinged metal door for storage in the buttstock. The LOP measures 13 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The wood has been sanded and refinished. The butt plate has been refinished. The door functions correctly and has a strong spring. 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. There are no visible cracks. Overall the wood is in about Very Good condition.   

Type of Finish: Parkerized

Finish Originality: Some of the parts are original and some of the parts have been refinished.       

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is well defined. There is no erosion in the bore. Our gauges show a muzzle of 1+ and a throat of 2+. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.  

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 96% of its metal finish. The friction surfaces of the bolt and receiver show only minor rub wear. There is some scattered light handling wear present with no notable marks, dings or scratches. The bottom of the visible portion of the op-rod shows mild oxidation in the finish. This oxidation is only visible from under the rifle. The markings are clear and the screw heads are sharp. Overall all this rifle is in 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, and two sight covers.    

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 during 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 in military service. 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 May 1953, 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.