US Post-WWII International Harvester IHC M-1 Garand .30-06 Semi-Auto Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,850
WOA#: WY240318RU100
Make: International Harvester Co. (IHC)
Model: M-1 Garand
Serial Number: 4536387
Year of Manufacture: 1953
Caliber: .30-06 Springfield
Action Type: Semi Auto, En Bloc Clip Fed
Markings:
Import Mark: “FED ORD INC. SO. EL MONTE CA.”
Receiver: “U.S. RIFLE / CAL. .30 M1 / INTERNATIONAL / HARVESTER / 4536387”
Trigger Group: “IHC D6528290”
Hammer: “C-5546008 IHC”
Follower: No visible markings.
Safety: “IHC”
Receiver Leg: “D6528291-D”
Op Rod: “D6535382 IHC”
Bolt: “D-6528287 IHC X”
Barrel: “LMR D6535448 6 53 A13 P M” and an Ordnance cartouche. This is a Line Material Company (of Birmingham, Alabama) barrel, which is correct, as they provided barrels to International Harvester.
Gas Tube: “NHC IHC” marked on the front.
Barrel Length: Approximately 24″
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 with “DRC” and “IHC”. The elevation knob is marked from 2-12 in increments of 2.
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. This stock has been extensively sanded, as a result there are almost no marks or depressions and the buttplate is now larger than the profile of the stock. The sanding has also resulted in the stock having a very thin wrist compared to normal M-1 stocks. The LOP measures 12.75″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The handguard wood has also been sanded and has no marks. The wood rates in Very Good to Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Clear Coated
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright. The rifling is well defined. There is minor erosion in the groove throughout the length of the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 7/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle has lost most of the original finish and has been clear coated to give it a “wet” look. Under the coating the metal has some scattered brown patina, and some spots of surface rust that have been coated over. The metal bands also have some pitting. The buttplate has not been coated and has some surface rust and semi-dulled checkering. The markings are deep and very clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good to Good Plus condition and has a very unique and historic look to it for C&R. Please see our photos for a better understanding of its 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: International Harvester played a significant role in the production of M-1 Garand rifles in the post-war era. As one of the contracted manufacturers for the US military, IHC contributed to the vital effort to re-supply American troops with this iconic firearm during the Cold War. IHC manufactured M-1 Garands from 1952-56, and while they didn’t have the wartime production history of other manufacturers like Springfield Armory or Winchester, IHC rifles still became notable for their quality and reliability. The venerable IHC M-1 Garand was chambered in .30-06 Springfield, and featured the same semi-automatic action and eight-round en-bloc clip as the other variants. IHC’s M-1s rifles have garnered appreciation from collectors and shooters alike for their craftsmanship and performance, and represent a distinctive chapter in the history of this legendary rifle. Their production aided America’s post-war military rebuilding and constant readiness, and their legacy endures as a testament to IHC’s contribution to American firearms manufacturing during a pivotal period. Please see our photos and best of luck with your bidding!!! -R.L.
