WWII Saginaw Gear S’G’ M1 Carbine 18”.30 cal Semi Auto Rifle U.S. C&R 1943

SOLD FOR: $1,980.00

WOA#: WY240406WM014

Make: Saginaw SG. Saginaw Steering Gear Division of General Motors– Saginaw, Michigan.

Model: M1 Carbine.

Serial Number: 1836827

Year of Manufacture: March of 1943-September 1943, Barrel date 8-1943.

Caliber: .30 Carbine

Action Type: Semi Auto, fed by Detachable Magazines.

Markings:

The barrel is marked “UNDERWOOD / 8-43” with a flaming bomb. There is also a “P” about mid length on the barrel. Correct for Saginaw Gear in this Serial range.

The barrel band is marked “KV SG” for Saginaw Gear

The top of the receiver is marked “U.S. CARBINE / CAL. 30 M1” and “SAGINAW S’G’ / 1836827”. The left side is marked with a “J”. There is a firing proof punch present.

The mag release is unmarked.

The front sight is marked with a “3” on the left side.

The rear sight is marked  “W-S’G’”, and “S” for Saginaw Gear

The hammer is marked “S’G’” for Saginaw Gear

The Trigger group is marked “S’G’” for Saginaw Gear

The cross bolt safety is marked “IP-A” for American Electric Heater Co. correct for Saginaw Gear.

The Sear is marked “SW-S’G’” for Saginaw Gear

The lug is unmarked

The slide is marked with a flaming bomb on the Arm.

The upper handguard is marked with a faint “IR-IP correct for Saginaw Gear

The right side of the stock is marked “S’G’” and an Ordnance wheel for Saginaw Gear. The bottom of the pommel has the Circle “P” mark.

The Buttplate is marked “PM-IP” for Pross MFG co. correct for Saginaw.

Barrel Length: Approximately 18 Inches

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade with protective ears.  The rear sight is an early style L type aperture sight dovetailed to the receiver.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is an I cut, high wood, with two rivet handguard, type 1 band, cross bolt 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 left side rivet hole. The Stock shows very few lines, a few small compressions and no chips. The wood has no cracks. The metal buttplate has semi-dulled checkering with finish loss and brown patina. The stock rates in about Very Fine to Excellent overall condition for C&R given its age.

Type of Finish: Parkerized, blued.

Finish Originality: Original

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 85% of its metal finish. The metal surfaces show moderate patina and surface wear scattered throughout.The barrel has a rust ring underneath the barrel band that should be removable given proper cleaning. The barrel band, rear of the trigger guard, and inside of the wings of the front sight also show surface rust. The screw heads are sharp, the markings are Very Clear throughout.   Overall, this rifle rates in about 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: None.

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 100% of the visible parts correct for a Saginaw Carbine in this serial number range. Even the use of the Underwood Elliot Fisher barrel, Underwood famous for making Typewriters, is correct. 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 photos and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.