September 10-12, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/10/2024
Manufactured circa 1943 with an unmarked experimental 22" barrel. Only 4 long barrel M1E6 presentations are known, all having similar very early features. Like many X prefix serial numbered M1 carbines this example was a presentation and has been finished in rich commercial blue. Fitted standard adjustable aperture rear sight. Flat bolt. Inland earliest narrow wall trigger housing absent hammer spring recess with Type 1 dogleg “H in shield hammer”, checkered type 1 safety, and serrated long face mag catch. The charging handle and trigger have been checkered. The "I0" marked walnut low-wood stock is of especially nice figure and has been artfully spliced to lengthen the forearm. Stock retains ink marking inside. Grip and forearm have also been checkered with tasteful folk art carving details throughout including a large "1945" date on the left side and a very well executed flying eagle carrying a shield on the right. A small brass plaque is inlaid on the right side of the forearm reading "R. M. LONGNECKER". Handguard has also been custom crafted from "HI" and "IO" marked handguards, the 4 rivet holes nicely plugged. During WWII Longnecker was part of the Inland War Projects Coordination Division as well as the Test Firing Range Supervisor, and Postwar Plastics Division Supervisor. This carbine is pictured on page 1148 of Larry Ruth's "War Baby III". CONDITION: Excellent as customized with presentation. Nearly all of the period applied commercial blue is retained throughout with only light evidence of use. Wood likewise has only scattered handling marks. Very fine bright bore with sharp rifling. ME of 1. Fine mechanics. PROVENANCE: Larry Ruth Collection