WWII Inland Division M1A1 Paratrooper M1 Carbine 30 Cal Rifle MFD 1944 C&R
SOLD FOR: $5,525.00
LSB#: LSB250512SG079
Make: Inland Division of General Motors
Model: M1A1 Paratrooper Carbine
Serial Number: 5449700
Year of Manufacture: Receiver 1944, Barrel date 7-1944.
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. 5449700”.
The bottom of the barrel on the flat is stamped with the typical Inland Hieroglyphic series of letters and numbers, The top of the barrel is marked “P” about 3” back from the front sight. The end of the barrel is marked “INLAND MFG. DIV. / GENERAL MOTORS / 7-44”.
The front sight is stamped with an “N” correct for Inland.
The barrel band is marked “II”
The slide is marked with an underlined “PI” on the inside and “7160091 E”. For Packard Inland.
The rear sight is marked “I.R.C.O. 7160060”-for International Register CO.
The bolt is unmarked.
The trigger group is marked “INLAND”.
The magazine release is marked “M”
The crossbolt safety is unmarked.
The hammer is marked “WI”
The oiler is marked “SI” for International Silver Co.
The upper handguard is stamped “IO” for Inland Overton.
The inside of the stock is marked “IO” for Inland Overton, The left side of the pistol grip is marked with a circle “P”, the bottom of the pistol grip is marked “IO”. The back of the wood of the stock is marked with a circle “P”. The metal buttplate is marked faintly with “B257614”, the pie emblem, and “11” all of these markings are correct for an M1A1 Stock. The stock is also stamped “AA” on the left flank indicating a trip to the Augusta Arsenal. The leather has a painted “40” on it.
Barrel Length: 18″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a post set between two protective wings. This rifle also includes a later style sliding aperture sight with a knurled windage knob.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a real M1A1 paratrooper stock with a folding wire frame stock, leather cheekpiece, pistol grip, type 2 barrel band, and crossbolt safety. The length of pull is 13” from the trigger to the buttplate. The upper handguard shows only minor handling wear with no visible chips or cracks. There is a notable compression on the upper handguard from where the buttplate hits when folded. The stock shows handling wear scattered throughout with the characteristic rub mark from the buttplate. There are no visible chips or cracks. The buttplate spring is strong and the stock folds and locks correctly. The leather shows minor wear. The metal shows some scattered brown spots from age. Overall the stock is in Very Good condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: None.
Type of Finish: Parkerized / Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is very bright, with defined rifling. The bore shows very minor lines and marks from use. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.25/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The finish has turned brown / green with oil and age. The action and round bolt show wear on the friction surfaces from use. The markings are mostly clear and the screw heads are sharp with some slight marks. Overall this rifle is in Very 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: This rifle includes a canvas sling.
Our Assessment: This M1A1 Paratrooper Carbine, made by Inland Division with a 1944 dated receiver and an Inland 7-44 barrel, represents a classic example of a World War II-era folding-stock carbine built specifically for American airborne forces. Inland was the only original manufacturer of the M1A1 variant, producing approximately 140,000 units between 1942 and 1945. The M1A1 was designed for use by paratroopers, particularly in the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, who needed a compact, lightweight weapon that could be carried during jumps and deployed quickly in combat. It featured the same .30 Carbine chambering as the standard M1 but added a folding wire stock with a leather cheek pad, which allowed for easier transport in tight spaces such as parachute jump bags.
The stock on this carbine is marked “AA”, denoting Augusta Arsenal, one of the U.S. Army’s major post-war refurbishing facilities. After World War II, many M1 carbines, including specialized variants like the M1A1, were sent to arsenals for inspection, reconditioning, and rebuilding to be placed back into service for use in Korea and beyond. During this process, original parts were often retained if still serviceable, but stocks, barrels, and other components could be replaced or refinished. The 7-44 Inland barrel suggests it was either the original or a period-correct replacement, adding authenticity. A paratrooper M1A1 with this configuration reflects both its combat roots in 1944 and its extended post-war utility, making it a living artifact of airborne service and American arms logistics. Please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
