Inland Paratrooper M1A1 Carbine

Inland Paratrooper M1A1 Carbine, This is a correct configuration for a late, “second run” WW2 paratrooper carbine. About 70k were made in the second run. Barrel date puts this one in the middle of the 2nd run (9/44). The barrel has no bayonet lug and no evidence that one was ever installed. The rear site is adjustable but I am told and books indicate that this is correct for a 9/44 carbine. Parts all appear to be correct for the gun. Type 2 barrel band. While I am not an expert on M1 Carbines, I had this one checked out and have been told that it is all correct. Stock looks original. Leather cheek pad and rivets also seem original. Rivets are flush with the leather as they should be and the butt plate casting numbers are faint as they should be. Inland (GM) made, in the 5,521,xxx serial range. All original finish. 15 round magazine is S-O marked. Hairline crack in the back of the stock. I see no cartouche on the stock, but bottom of the grip handle is marked RI over 3, which the book indicates were subcontracted paratrooper stocks made by Royal Typewriter, and correct for this carbine. The inside of the barrel cover is marked IO. Also comes with a period correct, good condition, military issued shoulder strap. Inland Paratrooper M1A1 Carbine, Excellent bore.

The M1A1 Carbine is a notable variant of the M1 Carbine, developed during World War II for airborne and lightweight infantry units. Produced primarily by the Inland Manufacturing Division of General Motors, this model was designed to be compact, lightweight, and easy to handle, making it ideal for paratroopers and close-quarters combat. The M1A1 features several distinctive modifications from the standard M1 Carbine, including a simplified, hand-guard with a folding or integral rear sight, and a fixed stock that contributed to its streamlined profile.

Its weight, approximately 5.2 pounds, allowed paratroopers to carry the weapon comfortably during airborne operations. The M1A1 was chambered for the .30 Carbine cartridge, offering a balance of manageable recoil and effective range, typically up to 200 yards. It was equipped with a 15-round detachable magazine, providing sufficient firepower for squad-level engagements. The production of the M1A1 was relatively limited compared to the standard M1 Carbine, but it played a crucial role in specialized units, especially airborne troops who required a compact, reliable firearm. The design emphasized simplicity and ease of manufacture, aligning with wartime needs for rapid production and field reliability.