Make: International Harvester Co., IHC

Model: M1 Garand

Serial Number: 5019642

Year of Manufacture: 1954, 5-53 dated barrel. 

Caliber: .30-06 Springfield

Action Type: Semi Auto, En Bloc Clip Fed

Markings: 

Receiver: “U.S. RIFLE / CAL. .30 M1 / INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER / 5019642”

Trigger Group: “D28290-W.R.A.”

Hammer: “D48008-3 SA”

Follower: “11”

Safety: “SA-11”

The trigger guard is marked “C-46025-3-SA”

Receiver Leg: “D6528291-P”. 

Op Rod: “6535382 SA” 

Bolt: “D-6528287 IHC / X”

Barrel: “P LMR D6535448 5 53 A12 P M” and a small ordnance wheel This is a Line Material Co barrel.

The front of the gas plug is marked “NHC IHC”

The right side of the rear sight adjustment knob is marked “DRC”, “IHC” and “LEFT” in two places with two counter clockwise arrows.

The elevation knob is marked “IHC” and 2-12 in increments of 2. 

Barrel Length: Approximately 24 Inches

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade set between two protective wings. The rear sight is a fully adjustable aperture sight set between two protective wings. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The hardwood stock has a semi-pistol grip, metal nose cap, two sling loops, stacking loop, and a metal buttplate with hinged metal door for storage in the buttstock. This stock has been sanded down and refinished. The stock has also been reprofiled during the sanding and the metal buttplate, and the end of the receiver now overlaps the wood. This refinish has also removed any markings. The stock shows minimal handling marks and marks from use. There are two chips in the belly of the stock just in front of the bottom metal. There is a small crack developing on the left side of the woodline just behind the clip latch. The rear upper handguard shows a large divot at about mid length and a crack forming from the receiver to the rear band at about the 11 o’clock position. The forward handguard is loose fitting, and has a crack forming from the rear band at the 1 o’clock position. The metal buttplate has retained most of its finish and shows scratches around the edges with semi dull checkering. The door has a strong spring and shows semi sharp checkering. There is some minor surface rust developing in the checkering and in the spring latch recess. Overall this stock set is in Good Overall condition.

Type of Finish: Parkerized

Finish Originality: Original and Refinished

Bore Condition: The bore is semi bright with well defined rifling. There is mild erosion / pitting throughout the bore. According to our gauges the muzzle reads at a 1+ and the throat at a 1+. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 7/10. 

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. The muzzle, gas plug, and trigger guard edges show the majority of the finish loss. The barrel shows some lines and scratches on the exposed area and rub wear on the right side by the chamber from the op rod and the front from the gas cylinder. The front nose cap for the handguard has lost its finish as well. The bolt shows only minor rub wear on the friction surfaces. The receiver and trigger guard have been refinished. The markings are mostly clear with the exception of the ordnance wheel on the barrel. The brass on the leather slings shows verdigris on the contact points. The screw heads are sharp. Overall this rifle is in Good condition for C&R.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle includes the leather sling and a cleaning rod in its green sleeve, a yellow see through oiler, and M1 tool.

Our Assessment: The International Harvester M1 Garand holds a distinct place in the lineage of this iconic rifle. Born out of the necessity to ramp up production during World War II, International Harvester, primarily known for agricultural machinery, stepped into firearm manufacturing. From 1952 to 1956, the company produced M1 Garand rifles at its Evansville, Indiana, plant, contributing to the war effort and subsequent military needs. Despite its newcomer status in firearm production, International Harvester upheld the high standards set by established manufacturers. The M1 Garand rifles produced by IHC are known for their quality craftsmanship and reliability. Chambered in .30-06 Springfield and utilizing an eight-round en bloc clip, these rifles performed admirably in military service. This example also includes a Line Material Co. barrel. LMR barrels are believed to be the best quality barrels made in the 1950s for M1s. Today, the International Harvester M1 Garand holds significant collectible value. Its limited production span and distinct history contribute to its appeal among firearms enthusiasts and collectors. Beyond its collectibility, the rifle stands as a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of American industry during wartime, showcasing how companies like International Harvester played a crucial role in arming the nation's military forces. In the broader context of military history, the M1 Garand, in general, holds a revered position. As one of the first semi-automatic rifles widely adopted by a major military power, it revolutionized infantry tactics and firepower. The International Harvester variant, with its unique story and contributions, remains a cherished piece of this larger narrative, embodying the spirit of American innovation and resilience. Please see our photos and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.