
WWII Saginaw Gear S’G’ M1 Carbine 18”.30 Cal Semi Auto Rifle U.S. C&R 1943
SOLD FOR: $1,200.01
WOA#: WY240715LP143
Make: Saginaw SG. Saginaw Steering Gear Division of General Motors– Saginaw, Michigan.
Model: M1 Carbine.
Serial Number: 1852821
Year of Manufacture: March of 1943-September 1943, Barrel date the month is not legible the year is 1944.
Caliber: .30 Carbine
Action Type: Semi Auto, fed by Detachable Magazines.
Markings:
The barrel is marked “UNDERWOOD / 44” with a flaming bomb. There is also a “P” about 3” from the front sight. Correct for Saginaw Gear in this Serial range.
The barrel band is marked “J.M.Q.”
The top of the receiver is marked “U.S. CARBINE / CAL. 30 M1” and “SAGINAW S’G’ / 1852821”. The left side is marked with a “W”. There is a firing proof punch present.
The mag release is marked “MWA”.
The front sight is unmarked.
The rear sight is marked “H.I.” for Hemphill MFG CO.
The hammer is marked “W’” for Winchester
The Trigger group is marked “INLAND” for Inland Division.
The flip style safety is unmarked.
The lug is unmarked
The slide is marked with an “H”
The upper handguard is marked with “IO” for Inland Overton
The stock is marked “JL-B” inside the sling cut for Jamestown Lounge Co., The front of the grip is marked with a “P” acceptance stamp, The left flank is marked “AAQ” most likely an Augusta Arsenal re work stamp post war.
The oiler is marked “IS” for International Silver CO.
Barrel Length: Approximately 18 Inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade set between protective ears. The rear sight is a later style sliding aperture sight with a serrated windage knob dovetailed to the receiver.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is an I cut, low wood, with four rivet handguard, type 3 band with bayonet lug, later flip style safety and metal checkered buttplate. The LOP measures 13.25 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The upper handguard has scattered lines, scratches and compressions with a chip out of the right side rear rivet hole. The Stock shows a medium amount of lines, scratches, compressions and several chips including the left side of the grip and the sling cut. The wood has no cracks. The metal buttplate has semi-dulled checkering with finish loss and brown patina. The stock rates in about Good to Good + overall condition for C&R given its age.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is defined. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its refinished metal finish. The only real wear on the metal are the friction surfaces of the receiver and bolt. The lug has not been refinished and has turned brown with patina. The front sight has some debris stuck to it that should be easily removed with a proper cleaning. The screw heads are sharp, the markings are mostly Clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good to Fine condition for C&R.
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 M1 includes a green canvas sling.
Our Assessment: The Saginaw Gear M1 Carbine is a significant variant of the iconic M1 Carbine, produced during World War II by the Saginaw Steering Gear Division of General Motors. The M1 Carbine itself was a lightweight, semi-automatic rifle designed to provide greater firepower than the standard-issue sidearm while being more portable than the M1 Garand. Saginaw Steering Gear Division, located in Saginaw, Michigan, was one of several companies contracted by the U.S. government to manufacture the M1 Carbine. Production of the M1 Carbine by Saginaw Gear began in 1943 and continued through the end of World War II. The company was chosen for its expertise in precision engineering and manufacturing, essential for the production of reliable military firearms. The Saginaw Gear M1 Carbine, like other variants, is chambered in .30 Carbine. It operates on a short-stroke gas piston system, allowing for semi-automatic fire. The rifle has an effective range of about 300 yards, making it suitable for various combat roles, from close-quarters engagements to medium-range skirmishes. Today, the Saginaw Gear M1 Carbine is a sought-after collector’s item due to its historical significance and being manufactured by Saginaw Steering Gear. The M1 Carbine, in general, remains a popular choice among collectors and shooters for its historical value, reliability, and ease of use. This example has the typical yet unique mixture of parts including Inland, Hemphill, and Jamestown Lounge Co. The inclusion of the Underwood Elliot Fisher barrel, Underwood famous for making Typewriters, is in fact correct for a Saginaw receiver. In summary, the Saginaw Gear M1 Carbine is a notable variant of the M1 Carbine produced during World War II by the Saginaw Steering Gear Division of General Motors. Known for its reliable performance and lightweight design, this rifle served various roles during the war and is highly regarded by collectors and enthusiasts for its historical significance and quality craftsmanship. Please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!
-R.L.
