I need some advice on an M1A1 purchase

[GUTS]

A friend of mine showed me this rifle about a year ago and I asked to buy it and he said no, he was saving it to hand down to his boys. I don't think his boys will be able to legally own guns before it's over anyway so I am going to try to buy it again tomorrow. I really think if I put $3000 cash in front of him I may take it home. Then he can buy three normal rifles for the boys and the M1A1 will have a new home where it will be appreciated. Here is the rifle, he has had it for 35 years. Should I give $3000 for this rifle?
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/015-32.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/011-50.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/021-13.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/022-13.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/019-20.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/018-23.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/017-25.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/016-29.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/014-35.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/013-37.jpg

[GUTS]

More pics.
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/010-49.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/009-55.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/008-58.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/007-59.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/005-63.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/006-69.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/004-83.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/003-77.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/002-92.jpg
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g236/Gutss/001-107.jpg

[Tuna]

It appears to be a legitimate M1A1. As to value it's what ever the market will bare right now. I have seem them going for less and not being sold and then I have seen them go for your price. If you think it's a fair deal then go for it but placing a value on it right now if difficult with the way things are.

[ChadC]

Sorry, I can't help out, but it is a beautiful M1A1! Good luck on your purchase, hopefully he'll sell!

[JOHN42768]

Hi, Value is always subject to originality, availability, condition, $$ and necessity on the purchasers part. That being said. The stock appears to be correct, without seeing the stamping on the butt plate or inside the channel. M1A1's were composed of an early run (approx. Nov. '42- Oct.'43) and late run (May-Dec. '44). Each being approx. 70,000 per run. This stock is high wood, straight grip and the other marking would indicate first run. The carbine itself again from what I can see appears correct, but would have been produced in the time frame of the second run. Not that any of this is bad, but probable not originally together from birth. Wear marks might help you determine usage, but not for sure. So parts appear original, There are not many around for sale, appears unmolested, price seems realistic ( you didn't indicate asking price) and how bad do you want it. If you are comfortable with the $$, I would offer 2700 with the other 300 in my other pocket to counter offer. Check out what is on Gunbroker and the other sites to see what sellers are asking. Hope that helps you. John

[jimb]

The only thing that I might question on that carbine is the rear sight. If it had an adjustable one, I would expect it to be a milled sight rather than stamped.

[JOHN42768]

Hi jimb, According to CC news letters that is one of the correct sights for that serial range. John

[ebeeby]

I like it. Stock is correct. Start at $2500.

[Tuna]

John the carbine is in the second run and the stock is correct for the beginning of the second run.

[Johnny in Texas]

2500-3000 is a safe price top of the market is around 3700.00

[GUTS]

Thanks guys.

[GUTS]

I talked to my friend today and I offered him $3000, he said no. He told me his uncle brought it back from WWII and he promised his sons they could have it(sounds like a good way to start a family feud). I then offered $4000 and he paused for a second and said "I'll talk to the boys and see what they say". So that's where it stands.