GUN FALL 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2017
RARE SPRINGFIELD ARMORY M1 GAS TRAP GARAND RIFLE.SPRINGFIELDM1121730-06MODERN; C&RCal. 30/06. This early production Gas Trap Garand was assembled in January 1938 with provenance attributable to well-known author and Springfield rifle collector, William S. Brophy. The rear of the receiver is marked "US RIFLE/CAL 30/M1/SPRINGFIELD/SPRINGFIELD/ARMORY". Standard three-piece walnut military stock, the forward hand guard and buttstock being more recent replacements. The left side of the stock is cartouched "S.A.-S.G.P." and an encircled "P" is on the front of the pistol grip. Correct replacement/refinished stock, with small hole/large hole, capped with an unmarked no-trap door buttplate. As true for all the Gas Traps, the main metal parts of this are finished in gray green phosphate. The later operating rod is noticeably darker than the receiver and the gas trap system has transitioned to a dull grey. Disassembly shows the following drawing numbers. Trigger group #D28290, Early Trigger Guard w/ Rear Concentric Rings #C46025, Hammer #C46008-1, Hammer Spring Guide is later version without wings, Bolt #D28287-2SA/B1, Operating Rod #D35382 3 8A (no relief cut), Bullet Guide #B8875SA, Safety Marked "SA", Front Sight salt blued and unnumbered, Heat Treatment on Right Side of Receiver #D28291, unmarked Trigger, Gas Trap System with small "v" behind sight #D28289-1, Barrel stamped N and P. The rear sight has serrated windage and elevation dials, the rear sight spring is numbered #B8872, and the gun has a two-piece Keystone recoil spring. PROVENANCE: Bill of sale citing purchase from William S. Brophy in 1968. Ex. Bill Morrison Collection. CONDITION: VG-Excellent with refurbished/replaced parts as previously noted. Very small marks are present from storage and handling. Most of the phosphate finish remains except for over the gas-housing, where the parts are greyed. Very light finish loss on operating rod handle and high points of sights. Butt plate has light wear with slight finish loss at high points of checkering. Bore and mechanics are excellent. Gas Trap Garands are a Holy Grail for many military collectors, rarely offered at any price, this one with excellent provenance. 52258-1 LMA (17,500-22,500)