M-1 Carbine

[jrguns]

I am looking to get a M1 carbine and would like some help. How can one tell if the gun was Military or commercial? I know there are many makers and combinations out there. What would you buy if you were looking in the 7 to $800.00 range? I am looking for one as a shooter but also one that will retain it's value and appreciate.

I am looking at a friends and it is an IBM made. Any info one this make would be greatly appreciated.

 

[mr ed]

Move on down to the military surplus section and do a search. been discussed many times.

 

[AKguy1985]

I've had two IBM's they are USGI.

 

[Sanford]

Good info here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M1_carbine#Military_contractors

and here:

http://www.bavarianm1carbines.com/manufacturers.html

Recently bought an Inland, it's a hoot to shoot.

 

[Perplexed]

As has been mentioned, check out the Military Surplus forum for more info. For a shooter in that price range, I'd look for a Carbine made by Inland; they're the most common USGI manufacturer, so they should be the least expensive, all else being equal. Other Carbines cost more simply because of the name on the receiver, though they might be a slightly better investment, especially if you score an Irwin Pedersen at an Inland price