M1 Garand - References for "correct" numbers

[Gutshot John]

Given that the overwhelming majority of M1 Garands have been gone through arsenal rebuilds and so serial numbers that match are exceedingly rare is there are a good online reference to see whether the numbers on one's gun are "correct"?

[Army Chief]

I've encountered various resources over the years, some better than others, but unquestionably the best starting point for any Garand research project is the M1 board on Culver's Shooting Page (http://www.jouster.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?3-M1-Garand-M14-M1A&). That should lead to other people and places that can help you with lot numbers and such. I've also got some hardcopy references on hand that I would be happy to check if you find that you have some specific questions.

AC

[Army Chief]

... somehow, I managed to forget about this reference (http://www.thegca.org/glossary-terms2.pdf) on the Garand Collector's Association site, which is another must-see.

AC

[Gutshot John]

Cool thanks AC I'll give it a once over.

[Army Chief]

Happy to help. I get the sense that you are already tracking on this, but just as a general teaching point for the crowd, most USGI M1s will indeed be what we call "mixmasters," with various parts from various eras. Most underwent one or more arsenal rebuilds while still in the active inventory, and the typical DCM/CMP rifle released to the public is often subjected to parts swapping before it leaves Anniston, just to make sure that everything is in good working order. It's a rare thing to find a Garand that hasn't seen new wood, or even a new barrel, at some point along the way.

The real point here is that you're looking to determine which components might be original to the gun by means of part configuration and lot numbers -- not serial numbers. Serial number replication on individual components is something we most commonly associate with German military arms, but the US standard is to identify parts by when they were produced, by whom, and under which contract. This can prove beneficial when your WWII-vintage Winchester has a 1954-vintage Springfield operating rod, for example, since your task is simply to find an op rod from the right era and manufacturer, as opposed to finding one that matches a specific serial number.

More links at: http://www.memorableplaces.com/m1garand/garandlinks.html

AC