What luck.... I think I got a welded receiver.....

So, in an effort to make sure I should really be irked at myself, I may have a welded receiver on a M1, but thanks to some other posts elsewhere, I'm just flat confused. Specifics are:

Sn 530xxxxx
Drawing F 65828291, with an A55C.

I read that that draw and heat lot are associated with IHC and the F number showed up only on Springfields after 545xxxxx (I think); but now I see posts that it actually showed up on Springfields as early as 533xxxxx, and I haven't been able to snatch a copy of Duff yet. If it is indeed welded, that guy did a great job. Nothing noticable under the loops, passes the dental pick test, and the park isn't in the greatest shape anyway (although I have cleaned that gunk from the latch recess).

IHC drawing numbers start with D. If there is an F then it is proceeded by an IHC. There's a ton of F drawing numbers in the 5.3 range. They are as early as 5.2. In Duffs book, 5292300 has a heat lot of A 5 5 C with an F marked drawing number. In addition that that, I have looked at a few welded receivers and yours is not welded.

Doesn't look welded in the photos.

I don't believe it is welded either.

When you find one that is welded, there is usually pin holes in the spot. Because of the trapped oxygen when welded.

This one is fine.

Looking at the pictures I think it's fine also, not welded.

Heat Lot A55C in the SA#5.2s starts about SA# 5291156 and continues thru SA#5317315.
They are all "F" prefix part #s
With a complete serial number I could tell you more.
Respectfully submitted
Ed Byrns

You guys are awesome, not only for your knowledge but also the fact that you gave me an answer I was hoping for. Now I can start the look for a new barrel.

Thanks again!

Might be welded. Send it to me and I'll use it for a paper weight (snicker, snicker). Looks to be a good one.