Post WWII International Harvester IHC M1 Garand .30-06 Semi-Auto Rifle C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,025.00
LSB#: WY241115KN032
Make: International Harvester Co., IHC
Model: M1 Garand
Serial Number: 4445941
Year of Manufacture: 1952, 2-52 dated barrel.
Caliber: .30-06 Springfield
Action Type: Semi Auto, En Bloc Clip Fed
Markings:
Receiver: “U.S. RIFLE / CAL. .30 M1 / INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER / 4445941”
Trigger Group: “IHC D6528290”
Hammer: “C-5546008IHC”
Follower: unmarked
Safety: “IHC”
Receiver Leg: “IHC D6528291-A”.
Op Rod: “6535382 IHC”
Bolt: “D6528287 IHC A”
Barrel: “P S-A-2-52” Springfield Armory 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 faint “P” acceptance stamp on the grip. On the left flank there appears to be a very faint DOD cartouche.
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 and the stock has had a repair done to the heel and the toe of the butt. The butt plate has lost its finish, shows scratches, and has dulled checkering. The door functions correctly and has a strong spring. The wood shows scattered minor handling wear with scattered light marks and a few larger scratches notably the left side under the receiver. The left edge on the stock shows a very rough edge that has been sanded. The rear upper handguard shows two cracks that have been repaired and a chip on the leading right edge. The forward handguard has a small compression and a scratch on the left side. The bottom of the stock also shows several chips that have been repaired. Overall the wood is in about Good condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original and refinished.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. 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 99% of its metal finish. The bottom metal shows some minor discoloration, the gas plug has lost its finish, the friction surfaces of the bolt and receiver show only minor rub wear. The markings are clear and the screw heads are sharp. There is some sort of substance on the sight knobs that should be able to be cleaned off. Overall all this rifle is in Good+ to 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: None.
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. 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.
