Springfield Tanker M1 Garand .30-06 Semi-Auto Rifle MFD 1945 C&R
SOLD FOR: $905
WOA#: WY240302MH002
Make: Springfield Armory
Model: M1 Garand
Serial Number: 3665529
Year of Manufacture: March 1945
Caliber: 30-06
Action Type: Semi Auto, En Bloc Clip Fed
Markings: The left side of the stock has a faint CMP with Eagle Mark for the Civilian Marksmanship Program. The stock also has a “30” rack number. The front side of the grip has a “P” acceptance mark.
Receiver: “U.S. RIFLE / CAL. .30 M1 / SPRINGFIELD / ARMORY / 5414379”
Trigger Group: “D28290-5-SA”
Hammer: “D-46002-5 SA”
Safety: “SA-11”
Follower: No markings.
Receiver Leg: “D 28291 35” , “O 8 1 B”
Op Rod: “D35382 9 SA”
Barrel: “6 ARLINGTON ORD. ARL. VA. .30-06”
Bolt: “D 28287-126A S-B10”
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. The windage knob is marked “LEFT arrow” twice and “DRC. The elevation knob is marked from “2-12” in increments of two. This rifle has a 1913 scope rail over the receiver with a 3-9×40 scope.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The hardwood stock has a traditional grip, metal nose caps, a stacking loop, two sling loops and a metal buttplate with hinged door for storage in the butt, there is a plastic cheek riser on the stock. The forend top and lower stock are different pieces and not paired. The wood shows scratches, scuffs and depressions throughout. There are chips on the stock by the trigger pack. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Good overall condition for C&R Given its age. .
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is black and the rifling is semi-sharp. There is heavy erosion. In this writer’s opinion this barrel rates at a 3/10.
Overall Condition: this rifle retains 96% of its metal finish. There is minor operational wear throughout and you can see the age of the rifle. There is scratches and scuffing on all the exposed parts. Overall this rifle is in Good condition.
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: None
Our Assessment: The Springfield Tanker M1 Garand is a modified version of the iconic M1 Garand rifle, originally developed and manufactured by Springfield Armory. The M1 Garand itself is a semi-automatic rifle that gained fame as the standard-issue rifle for the United States military during World War II and the Korean War.
The Tanker variant of the M1 Garand was created to address the need for a shorter and more compact rifle suitable for use by tank crews and other personnel operating in confined spaces. The Tanker M1 Garand typically features a shortened barrel and a cut-down stock, reducing its overall length and making it more maneuverable in tight quarters.
While the exact specifications of Tanker M1 Garand rifles can vary depending on the modifications made by individual gunsmiths or manufacturers, they often retain the same internal operating mechanism and firepower as the standard M1 Garand. This means they still utilize the .30-06 Springfield cartridge and maintain the Garand’s semi-automatic action, allowing for rapid and reliable fire.
Tanker M1 Garand rifles are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts due to their historical significance and unique design. However, it’s important to note that the Tanker variant was not an official military designation, and most Tanker Garands available today are custom-built or modified rifles. Despite this, they remain a popular choice for those looking to own a piece of military history or seeking a practical and distinctive firearm for recreational shooting. -R.E.