VERY RARE PROTOTYPE ALL STEEL M2 CARBINE STOCK.

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/11/2024

As the Korean War continued into 1952, the US struggled to obtain enough walnut to stock their small arms production and began looking for other alternatives. Springfield had 4 steel stocks fabricated, likely by the Higgins Pressed Steel Company. This stock along with another similar prototype surfaced at a gun shop in Pasadena in the 1970s. This example is constructed of unfinished stamped 20 gauge soft stamped steel with an integral oiler clip and M2 cut. The standard butt plate fits tightly but is not affixed. An "A" marked bayonet lug barrel band is also included. This stock is pictured on page 1285 of Ruth's "WAR BABY III". CONDITION: Good displaying an overall unfinished, age turned blended brown patina. One of only 2 known surviving all steel carbine stocks. PROVENANCE: Larry Ruth Collection