WWII National Postal Meter M1 Carbine .30 w/ Iver Johnson Paratrooper Stock
SOLD FOR: $1026.50
WOA#: WY230711KI005
Make: National Postal Meter
Model: M1 Carbine
Serial Number: 4263899
Year of Manufacture: Early 1944
Caliber: .30 Cal Carbine
Action Type: Semi-Automatic
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked “NATIONAL / POSTAL METER / 4263899” at the rear and “U.S. CARBINE / CAL. 30 M1” at the front. The barrel is marked “MARLIN”.
Barrel Length: 18″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade with protective ears. The rear sight has been replaced with a drilled receiver in the dovetail for an accommodating scope mount. This rifle comes with a Weaver K4-03 rifle scope mounted to a scope base marked “SPAIN” via Telstar Scope rings. The scope mount screws to the drilled and tapped receiver in the dovetail.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is an Iver Johnson Paratrooper Carbine Stock made in the 80’s. The stock features a slide out wire buttstock, wood pistol grip and vertical foregrip, and a metal vented heat shield for the upper handguard. The LOP measures about 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the wire stock. The stock rates in about Fine condition. There are some compression marks, scratches, and nicks throughout.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: Two (2) 15rd .30 Carbine USGI magazines and one 30rd aftermarket magazine. All magazines rate in Good-Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, Parkerized, Phosphate
Finish Originality: Rebuilt M1 Carbine. Some parts have their original finish while most of this rifle has been refinished.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is mostly sharp.There is some minor corrosion present.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 85% of its metal finish and about 20% on the unfinished parts. The balance of the finish shows wear across the bolt group surface and around the receiver including some scratches on the barrel. The screw heads are sharp with some tooling evident on the barrel band screw head. The pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition as Refurbished. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the rifle’s overall condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The Bolt stop is missing from the top of the charging handle. 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 comes with its attached leather sling in Very Good condition. There is some verdigris on the brass. This rifle also come with a total of 3 magazines, its Weaver Scope, a canvas dual mag pouch, and a Green Canvas Rifle Case. Please see photos.
Our Assessment: During the early stages of World War II, the U.S. military recognized the need for a lightweight rifle that would bridge the gap between the heavy and cumbersome M1 Garand rifle and the standard issue sidearm, the M1911 pistol. The goal was to provide troops with a compact and easy-to-handle firearm that offered more firepower than a pistol but was lighter and more maneuverable than a full-size rifle.
In 1941, the U.S. Army’s Ordnance Department contracted with various manufacturers, including Winchester, Inland, and General Motors’ Inland Division, to develop and produce the M1 Carbine. The rifle was designed by a team led by firearms designer David Williams, who drew inspiration from the successful M1 Garand and the short-recoil action of the M1 Thompson submachine gun.
The M1 Carbine featured a gas-operated, semi-automatic action and fired a .30 caliber cartridge known as the .30 Carbine. The cartridge, while less powerful than the standard .30-06 ammunition used in the M1 Garand, offered greater capacity and reduced recoil, making it more controllable and well-suited for short to medium-range engagements.
The M1 Carbine saw widespread use in World War II, becoming a staple firearm for American troops. It was praised for its reliability, ease of use, and versatility. The rifle was not only issued to U.S. forces but also provided to allied nations through various lend-lease programs.
After World War II, the M1 Carbine continued to serve in the Korean War and saw limited use in subsequent conflicts. It also became popular among civilian shooters and collectors due to its historical significance and manageable recoil.
Overall, the M1 Carbine played a significant role in U.S. military history, offering a lightweight and reliable firearm that filled a niche between pistols and full-size rifles. Its compact design, firepower, and ease of use made it a favored weapon among soldiers in various roles and contributed to its enduring legacy.
This rifle is a rebuilt National Postal Meter M1 Carbine. It sports a unique Iver Johnson Paratrooper Carbine Stock which gives it a unique look compared to most M1 Carbines. This will make a great addition to any collection or range day lineup. Please see our photos and good luck!