Newbie M2 Carbine Question

[Gunslinger]

I'm interested in purchasing an M2 Carbine that I saw last night. Serial number is 50xxxx. I'm told that it's a Rock Island Armory rifle but I don't know much more than that. Can anyone provide any information about its origins based on its serial number or maybe point me to some websites where I might find our more about the history of such rifles?

 

It's in very nice condition and looks to have been lightly used.

 

Thanks!

[jim c 351]

Gunslinger,

Rock Island Armory is one of many places that registered M1 carbine receivers or parts kits prior to May 1986.

You failed to specify whether the carbine you are looking at has a registered receiver or registered parts kit.

The actual manufacturer of a GI carbine with a 500,000 serial number would be a Inland Div with a 1943 Inland barrel. So, if its a registered receiver, pay close attention to the condition of the receiver.

If the parts kit is the registered item, then pay close attention to the part with Rock Island stamped on it. It can legally moved from carbine to carbine.

Original WW2 manufactured M2 carbines were made by Inland Div and Winchester and have serial numbers above 6,5XX,XXX. All other make M2 carbines were converted from existing M1s.

Jim C

[Gunslinger]

Hi Jim C

 

I'm unsure of whether it's the receiver or the parts kit that is registered. Frankly, I didn't know enough about M2's to even ask but I'll find out. The receiver, like the barrel, is in really nice condition and the rifle runs great. Thanks much for the manufacturer information. That clears up my question about the origins of the rifle.