I picked up an M1 Carbine today. Its a 1943 Saginaw SG. I cant wait to take it out. The guy gave me 3 new made 30rd mags which just doesnt seem right so I ordered 2 unissued 15rd USGI mags.
Got it at the show in Lafayette. Paid $900 for it. Yeah I know that is kind of high but it is in great condition. Harelyindys still has his for $575 in the classifieds section.
Looks nice! I really love shooting the Inland we got for Dad last year on Father's day. The Original 15 rd. mags are the way to go, although the 30's work ok and would be handy if you wanted to run a carbine course or needed to use it in a real battle situation.
I'd recommend looking for a sling and mag pouch to help complete the authentic set. And, if you are so inclined, get a canvas carry bag for it too.
That's a beautiful carbine! Congrats. For me, part of the fun of carbine (heck, any milsurp) ownership is finding accessories for it. First thing would be an oiler and sling.
Be careful with those 30 rounders...I can't quite tell from the pic, but it looks like your mag catch has just an M on it. An improved mag catch was designed and implemented when the 30 round mags were adopted and is stamped with an underlined M. This catch was designed with a small projection to help support the extra weight of a loaded 30 round mag.
I ordered a mag pouch for it to. Sling and oiler will be the next paycheck. There is a 72F on the stock. The 30rd mags just dont seem to fit right maybe a little too tight so that was another reason I ordered the 15rd mags.