Inland Paratrooper M1A1 Carbine — Inland (GM), Barrel Date 9/44, Serial Range 5,521,xxx

Focus Keyphrase: Inland Paratrooper M1A1 Carbine 9/44

Product Overview

This Inland Paratrooper M1A1 Carbine is a correct late “second run” World War II paratrooper configuration produced by Inland (General Motors). The stamped barrel date places this example in September 1944 (9/44) — mid-production for the second run, of which roughly 70,000 units were manufactured. Built for airborne troops, the M1A1 is a compact, lightweight, and historically significant variation of the M1 Carbine optimized for paratrooper use.

Condition & Matching Details (Collector Notes)

• Manufacturer: Inland Manufacturing Division (General Motors)

• Barrel Date: 9/44 (matches mid second-run production)

• Serial Range: 5,521,xxx (Inland GM production block)

• Finish: All original parkerized finish present

• Stock: Appears original; contains a hairline crack in the back of the stock (visible but stable)

• Cheek Pad: Original leather cheek pad with original rivets — rivets are flush as they should be

• Butt Plate: Casting numbers faint, correct for period examples

• Rear Sight: Adjustable rear sight consistent with mid 9/44 production (books & experts confirm this is correct for the date)

• Barrel Band: Type 2 barrel band — correct for second run Inland paratrooper carbines

• Magazines: Includes a 15-round magazine marked S-O (correct stamp)

• Markings: Inside of barrel cover marked “IO”; grip handle bottom marked RI over 3 (Royal Typewriter subcontractor paratrooper stock mark — correct)

• Stock Cartouche: No visible cartouche on the stock (not uncommon in period-correct paratrooper stocks)

• Accessories: Includes a period-correct military issued shoulder strap in good condition

• Bore: Excellent bore — strong rifling and clean throat

• Overall: Parts appear correct for this carbine; while not claimed as a full expert authentication, multiple checks indicate configuration and marks are consistent with an authentic late second-run Inland M1A1.

Key Features & Specifications

• Model: M1A1 Paratrooper Carbine (Inland)

• Caliber: .30 Carbine

• Action: Semi-automatic, short-stroke gas/rotating bolt (standard M1 Carbine action)

• Magazine Capacity: 15-round detachable magazine (included, S-O marked)

• Stock Type: Fixed stock with original leather cheek pad and rivets (paratrooper configuration)

• Weight: Lightweight design for airborne use (approx. 5.2 lbs unloaded in typical specs)

• Notable Marks: Barrel date 9/44, serial in 5,521,xxx range, RI over 3 grip stamp, IO on barrel cover

Historical Significance

The M1A1 Paratrooper Carbine was developed to meet airborne units’ need for a compact, reliable defensive weapon that could be carried during jumps and close-quarters combat. Inland (GM) was one of the principal wartime producers, and the second-run production pieces from 1944 are both historically relevant and highly collectible. This example’s correct configuration and period markings make it a noteworthy piece for military collectors and WWII small-arms historians.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I verify this carbine’s authenticity?
A: Check barrel-date stamps, serial range, contractor stamps (Inland/GM), stock marks (RI over 3 for Royal Typewriter subcontracted paratrooper stocks), proof marks, and matching parts. This example’s 9/44 barrel date, 5,521,xxx serial, Type 2 barrel band, and period-correct markings all align with Inland second-run production.

Q: Is the hairline crack in the stock a major issue?
A: The hairline crack is noted for full disclosure. It appears to be superficial and stable. For display or light handling it’s acceptable; for full restoration or firing, consult a qualified armorer or gunsmith.

Q: Are the cheek pad and rivets original?
A: Yes — the leather cheek pad and rivets appear original; the rivets are flush with the leather as expected for genuine period parts.

Q: Does this include period-correct accessories?
A: Yes — this carbine comes with a period-correct military shoulder strap in good condition and a 15-round S-O marked magazine.

Q: Is the bore good for shooting?
A: The bore is reported as excellent, with strong rifling and good overall condition. Have a qualified armorer inspect it prior to firing.

Q: Are the parts matching?
A: Parts appear correct for the gun and consistent with Inland second-run examples. The only noted non-matching item is not indicated — the seller reports parts are correct; for absolute matching certification, a third-party expert evaluation is recommended.