Why I Really Like The M1 Carbine [M1 Carbine Series Part 1]

[@genestatler2514]

The M1 Carbine was the rifle I carried as a radio operator in Korea in 1954-55. I loved it . I would like to have one now.

[@tuberaider]

Get one. You can get an original or do as I did, and get a modern repro Rock-Ola from James River Armory (through ClassicFirearms.com)

[@itsyaboimat2393]

Thank you for your service Gene

[@009gep]

Thank you for your service sir.

[@alanaldpal950]

Sorry, I could not resist, but how did your mother get lost in Korea? Thank you to your father for his service

[@gypsymanjeff2184]

Thank you for ur service ..my pops was a FFL mast.sarg..been all over n used most everything out Thier ..he ALWAYS had high praise for them as well ..he used to get so PISSED off at those saying b.s. about not penetrating..he told them was cuz they MISSED ..n end up in some good fights ..GOD I miss that MAN..

[@kitgharris]

This is what my grandfather carried in iwo jima. He's 95 now and still doing ok.

[@JohnDoe-kd5hq]

Tell him I say thank you for his service and God Bless his soul 🙏🏻🇨🇦🇺🇸💪🏻

[@vasili_zajtsev2685]

Gawd blessing tank yuur fur yuur service

[@jtfagan415]

God bless him.

[@onionhead5780]

Tell that Devil Dog Semper Fi 🙏

[@patricklondon6006]

My father was in the Pacific during WWIl. He never talked about it. He was wounded from what my mother got out of him. I do remember him waking us up screaming in the night. My mother told us dad just had another bad dream. He thought he was still in the war. In 1971 he finally found the peace he was looking for. Rest in peace dad.

[@tombats6428]

From a German soldier: in the combat field there are a lot of rifles on the ground. In the European theater one saw many M1 Garand rifles on the ground, but never an M1 carbine. They were picked up as soon as they were seen.

[@scoutdogfsr]

The German acceptance board even issued a number, repair, and ammo supply for this highly useful arm. It was perhaps the most desirable alternate arm on the western front. Look up the old Taylor T.K.O. power factor and you will see the round is placed higher on the scale than 5.56 nato. After decades of reloading and firing in the mountains of Colorado I'm convinced the stories from Korea are based on the powder sensitivity of what is now called H110. Its terrible in cold and attitude. That's why I always use alternate powders.

[@WasatchGarandMan]

@@scoutdogfsr I didn't know the Germans actually made ammo for the Carbine during the war, that would make a great ammo box for a collection!

[@scoutdogfsr]

I doubt there was ammo manufacturing, just procuring in captured dumps and the field. The Waffenampt number was 455(a) with the nomenclature of Selbstladegewhr (self loading rifle).Notice that they do not call it a Karabiner (carbine)

[@samuelzuleger5134]

@@scoutdogfsr I get it, but maybe I should clarify about Korea. Both my grandparents fought there, and both hated the gun for reasons beyond just the cold. Most of the M1 Carbines issued were of WWII vintage and saw wear and tear from THAT war, so barrels were used for about a decade for training at the range (if not combat), the mechanisms got to see Pacific Islands or New Guinea, and the powder was almost a decade old. On top of that, a lot of the terrain in Korea was cleared mountains and fields, so engagements usually started beyond 300 yards. This was especially the case after summer 1951, when the lines stabilized and the war looked more like WWI, with some shooting extending beyond 500 yards. Both my grandfathers liked the M1 Carbine in the street combat of Seoul in 1950, but beyond that they took almost anything else. That is why Korean War soldiers generally give the weapon a failing grade. It just didn't fit the war it was used in. Then again, both grandfathers were initially squad heavy weapons specialists issued Browning Automatic Rifles prior to becoming "support troops" (that were still expected to be riflemen), so the 10 pound weight of the M1 Garrand was not an issue to them.

[@scoutdogfsr]

There's an old saying in the US Army. It's a soldier's right to bitch. My men always complained. Your in a rotten mood, bad terrain and missing everything good in life except brotherhood. I can understand why my troops complained and I always apply that to the past and future. Unless you have lived it you can only attempt to understand what it's like to live or die depending on your gear, men, and officers around you. Just respect their opinions and actions. Even if you disagree. Thank you to your family for their service. That's one thing we should ALL agree on.

[@itsapittie]

I have three USGI M1 carbines and I absolutely love them! Up to about 150 yards they don't give up anything in accuracy or effectiveness to an iron-sighted M4. You can get a folding stock and/or a scout rail for the carbine, so it's possible to mount some of the modern accessories if you so desire. For reasons of logistics the M1 carbine wouldn't be my go-to in a SHTF situation, but if that's what I had I wouldn't feel under-gunned either. Having owned one or more of them for 40+ years, I have made a few observations: Pro tip #1: As soon as you get a GI carbine, change all the springs for new ones. Reliability will go up dramatically. GI carbines are running springs that are at least 60 years old in most cases. A complete set of springs can be had from Wolff for about $20. Pro tip #2: For any serious purpose, use newly-manufactured commercial ammo. Surplus military ammo from South Korea and a few other countries can still be found and it's cheap, but it's old and some of it wasn't very good to begin with. Reliability and accuracy will suffer. Pro tip #3: Under no circumstances allow your wife, daughter, mother, girlfriend, or sister to shoot your M1 carbine because then it won't be yours anymore.

[@itsapittie]

@@JohnDavis-im1oy in addition to my experience, there are a number of articles and videos putting the M1 and M4 head-to-head. I suggest you start with Paul Harrell's video. I made no claims about accessories, just about the basic rifles themselves. Please take off your fanboy hat and do some research.

[@itsapittie]

@@JohnDavis-im1oy You're arguing against something I didn't say. For practical combat accuracy and effectiveness in the hands of the vast majority of shooters the M1 carbine will do the job about as well as the M4. Bullseye shooting is an entirely different matter. The military specification for an M4 carbine is 4 moa at 100 yards and the specification for the M855 ammunition is 5 moa at 100 yards. Getting 0.5 moa from your rifle when you're shooting 5.0 moa from your ammunition is meaningless. When you compare a military M4 carbine to a military M1 carbine, there's not enough difference to matter to most shooters. Optics, suppressors, etc. change the equation entirely, but when comparing apples to apples, I stand by my statement.

[@itsapittie]

@@JohnDavis-im1oy It's my money. However, I didn't spend "thousands" on my M1 carbines. That amount of money is what went into My AR15 and AR10 platform rifles. In case you missed it, I didn't advocate that the military or even civilian shooters ditch their ARs for M1 carbines. I said that up to 150 yards the M1 carbine is about as effective as a similarly-equipped M4. Why is this so important to you? Use what you like, I don't care.

[@itsapittie]

@@JohnDavis-im1oy that's why they have the long-range sight. I'm well aware of the behavior of men who are being shot at as well as the ones who are shooting at me. Go get a hug or some drugs or whatever you're deficient in.

[@itsapittie]

@@JohnDavis-im1oy You don't have many friends, do you?

[@garrow12225]

My Grandfather carried a Garand on his first tour in Korea, his second tour he carried the M1 Carbine. He always said “with my Carbine and my .45, I could take on the world”

[@jesspeters1213]

I bought a Charter Arms Carbine, added Red dot, Lazer and Light to it and 30rd Magazine. It added a lot of weight to it, but is a fun shooter. Everyone that tries it love it.

[@kchof8817]

Love the M1 carbine. Carried both an M16 and M1 as a special ops pilot in Vietnam. Bought an M1 3 years ago for home protection, great weapon

[@idkwhattoputhere.9891]

Yea i love it too.

[@ianquyck9834]

You guys still used the M1’s in Vietnam? Wow, that weapon had a longer time in service than I thought. I suppose it speaks to how effective it was in its role, or how slow the military is to adopt new weapons!

[@baker90338]

@@ianquyck9834 the m1 legitimately had a role during that most other guns of that time couldn’t touch, other than maybe the colt car15’s, and I don’t think SOG would want to give a pilot one.

[@JOSEPHMINNICK]

​@@ianquyck9834 qq

[@stephansilva9073]

I inherited mine from my father who bought it in a hardware store in the 1960’s for fifty bucks. It’s real strength is home protection. It is the best gun for going through the house clearing rooms. It is so light and handy, I have a surefire light under the barrel. The soft lead point cartridge is excellent and now Underwood makes a cartridge for it. The old girl is now retired from that duty since I purchased a Sig AR pistol in 5.56 with an 11 inch barrel. Great video and I do buy ammo from lucky gunner.

[@Lordofthepoors]

@Lilac Tortoise so wrong

[@wungomungo6177]

Lilac Tortoise duck and murder rape murder and rape murder rape is a gun gun rape

[@leithesocialistyuricon8981]

stephan silva I Hope you maintain it well!

[@merlemorrison482]

FYI: the Navy used both the Garand and the Carbine during Viet Nam. at one time or another I was issued both.....

[@EastCoastMan603]

God bless ya brother. 🇺🇸

[@matthewrobinson4323]

Da Nang 1966, NAVSUPPACT. I was issued a carbine.

[@stever8776]

thanks for your service 👍

[@matthewrobinson4323]

@@stever8776 Thank.you. I consider it a privilege.

[@scoutdogfsr]

We found many M2s in Panama during Just Cause. What a shit show to live through but we came across some crazy stuff. Full rocknroll m2 is fun as hell....

[@eddiesimone3568]

When I served in the Dutch army, from 92 until 96, I got my general training with the FAL, later replaced by the Canadian M-16, the Diemaco n7. However, my last 4 months I served as chief of a storage area and my personal weapon during this short period, no joke, was a carbine M1. And I loved it! The way it shoots is sóóó comfortable...

[@newrunner91]

This looks like a good alternative for those of us living in restricted states where we would have to own a "featureless" AR.

[@markgoostree6334]

Best to use the featureless AR. The police will just keep your very expensive M1 carbine. It will be easier to replace that AR.

[@springbloom5940]

It is not. The M1 was a stopgap with *lots* of problems. If its what you have, it'll do, but I would not look at a table of guns and pick that over any AR, to take into a fight.

[@Nikolai1]

I thought the same thing...until I saw the prices M1 Carbines are going for nowadays. Just get an M1 Garand - you'll be glad you did.

[@keithdavis4649]

I have both an AR and an M1 Carbine. Love them both. I usually let the younger relatives shoot the M1 at the family picnics, and every parent breaks out the camera-phones to get pics for the albums. However, for a better alternative for a 'featureless AR', have you considered a Mini-14? Chambered in .556, about the overall size of an AR, magazine fed, and has a wood stock/forearm. Libtards and new-age commies and nazis (Democrat assholes and leftists) don't shit their diapers at the sight of them.

[@Zawfee]

I live in NY and have been contemplating a Midwest industries modded Marlin lever gun.

[@grantdeisig1360]

I love my M1 carbine. Had a 75 yard shootout against my friends SKS, and we both agreed that the M1 carbine was just easier to shoot more accurately. Mainly because of the sight differences and lighter recoil.

[@smokingcrab2290]

If the sks used n-bloc clips or a detachable 15 rnd mag like the M1 carbine it would be far superior than it is now.

[@jason200912]

Must have some limpy shoulders to let 7.62 39 be enough recoil to ruin your groupings

[@terryv]

In Vietnam in 69/70, a few M1 Carbines were kept in inventory by our battalion armorer, along with a couple of M3 Grease Guns and 12 gauge pump shotguns. In the field, those wanting a change of pace would occasionally swap their M16 for one, since M1 Carbines were similarly small and lightweight. But after the novelty wore off they would switch back, since M16 ammo was more reliably included in bulk quantities than the oddball calibers were during our helicopter resupply drops. Still, it was a pleasant weapon to carry and shoot.

[@mikemeyer8392]

I have one that my Dad purchased through the mail in the 1960s. $60! It was the first rifle I ever shot! Made by IBM during the war.

[@elijahheyokanobody3550]

thats awesome

[@mohammedcohen]

My dad brought one of the first surplussed carbines home in the early 60s...wish I'd had a collector's eye back then...

[@tenofprime]

I have 2 from my dad, one is a standard model (non GI but it works great) and the second is the 22LR trainer type. I keep the 22 in my apartment for self defense just because it is less likely to fly through the wall and into the next appointment.

[@akillerpacman1709]

IBM? The computer company? They made guns too? That’s weird.

[@matthewbeaver5026]

@@akillerpacman1709 weird shit like that happens in times of war

[@timmytwodogs]

For close range, rapid fire, the M-1 carbine is hard to beat. It was never designed to replace the full on battle rifle but, to be an alternative to a service pistol. The M-1 carbine is one of the most handy rifles I have ever owned and I was a grunt for 7 years. Again, another excellent video from L/G. Well done.

[@timmytwodogs]

@Lilac Tortoise Save the sarcasm for someone who cares...

[@wigon]

I was in the Army and have fired all kinds of firearms and 100% agree with you. It's a superb short-range carbine that I would use over an AR-15 if I could afford to buy a M1 carbine in good condition. Instead I use an AR-15 only because it's cheaper, ammo is cheaper, and its more versatile. But it's definitely not as fun to shoot or as easy to shoot as an M1 Carbine.

[@timmytwodogs]

@@wigon I sure wish that the ammo was easier to find. I have a Smith M&P rifle as well but, the M-1 carbine gets a big smiley face :)

[@wigon]

@@8166PC1 There's plenty of logical reasons. For one, unlike the ARVN I'm not fighting a war or preparing for the Great Bugaloo. I just feel that the M1 Carbine, at least for me, is a much more comfortable and natural feeling firearm to shoot. It feels more like an extension of my body as its so perfectly balanced. Also unlike the ARVN, civilians have access to soft-point M1 Carbine rounds which offer a lot more stopping power than ball ammo. Yes, 5.56mm is more powerful. But anything that hits with the power of a 44 magnum is plenty sufficient to get the job done. Don't get me wrong, I like my AR-15, but if I could afford one, I would buy a M1 Carbine and use that as my primary home defense long gun just because I feel that it points better and that I'd likely be more accurate with it in a close range gun-fight.

[@smokingcrab2290]

@wigon, the ar15 is superior to the M1 carbine in every way and the recoil is not at all hard to manage

[@PlugNuster]

My father in-law has that exact rifle, and loves it. He fires pretty tight groups on a Man Target at 100 yards with iron sights. Pretty impressive if you ask me. Sweet little rifle.

[@raymondproulx1095]

Got my M1 Carbine in the early 1970’s. Used it as a truck gun dealing with coyotes and other bothersome critters. Love the gun and the round. Points like a finger, light, easy to use, reliable and plenty of punch for the task. I later picked up an AMT pistol in the same caliber. That’s a pretty healthy handgun. I sure miss the cheap, plentiful ammo we had for them a decade or so ago.

[@chiefjoe8655]

I've had mine a number of years and still love it. I initially qualified with an M1 Carbine when I entered the USAGE (many, many years ago) and was hooked ever since. I even carry it in my trunk on long trips. Never worry about it failing me. Thank you for the excellent review. Stay safe out there.

[@peter451]

As an Air Force Veteran (1960 to 1966) I was trained to use the M1 Carbine and loved it!

[@TheKersey475]

Halloween fun fact: "The Zombie Survival Guide" cites the M1 carbine as one of the best anti-zombie guns for it's weight, accuracy, capacity, and light ammo

[@BushSquirrel12]

While it's a good choice idk if I trust that guide because of the amount info in it that is just incorrect

[@ElijahDecker]

.30 carbine ammo isn't very plentiful.

[@milol9314]

Almost as if a 5.56 AR would be a better choice but then again, we’re talking about zombies. Those don’t exist. Skeletons on the other hand...

[@ALovelyBunchOfDragonballz]

Fun fact, it should've said "ammo that you can find...sometimes" :)

[@regularfather4708]

As much as I love my M1 carbine, when the zombies come I'm reaching for an AR15. Every time you shoot a zombie soldier you get more ammo!

[@zubitron5]

I remember that my brother in law bought an M1 Carbine and a 45 Colt back in the mid sixties for very little money. I was still a kid, but I liked both of those guns. My first rifle, at about the age of 15 was a Ruger 10/22 Carbine, which, to me, reminded me of the feel of the M1. My brother has a Ruger revolver that fires the 30 cal carbine round with a 7.5" barrel. I always felt that it was an odd caliber for a handgun, since the power out of a handgun length barrel is not very good for what was designed as a carbine cartridge and the long barrel makes the gun somewhat unwieldy to carry, though it is very accurate.

[@texasstararsenal1840]

I think lots of others would agree when I say that Chris (with this channel) and Ian (with Forgotten Weapons) are two of the best hosts on KZbin when it comes to historical firearms information. Detailed, engaging, great presentation, and straightforward language. Thoroughly enjoy these vids.

[@ctapmgriley]

My Dad carried one through France, Belgium, Holland, and Germany during WWII.

[@scottroder5516]

Was your dad a paratrooper?

[@timhallas4275]

J Riley: 80% of the 30 carbines carried in wartime never saw action.

[@trevvonhiggle1980]

@@timhallas4275 makes sense, they were largely assigned to support troops who weren't likely to see combat.

[@adayinthelifeof6197]

As an European I will be forever grateful for what your dad and his generation did for us.

[@QuantumMechanic_88]

I sometimes carried the folding stock full auto M 2 in Laos & Cambodia 1971 - 73 . Better than an UZI or Swedish K 9mm .

[@gunner678]

I think the M1 and M2 are superb weapons. Fired one at 17 years of age, when I joined the British Army, just for familiarisation (used by the IRA). Came across it again in Kosovo 20 years later, quite a few there, old war stores. Had a chance to shoot again. It's light, it's fast, easy to look after and pretty accurate. It's understandable why the French liked it in Indo China.

[@Hostile-Hondo]

M1 carbine was the first gun I ever fired my dad kneeled down behind me shouldered it and let me press the trigger I was 8

[@regularfather4708]

Same! but in my case it was a family friend and I was 14, Didn't even know what gun it was until years later when I went looking for my own M1 carbine.

[@brandonhookey7654]

Your father is a hero.

[@jeramyw]

I sh*t you not. I knelt down behind my 3 year old nephew and shouldered a pellet rifle. He pulled the trigger and hit the can. It wasn't very far, but still.

[@ryanspence5831]

i think i shot a .22 when i was 4

[@pokergroupdigital5290]

America.........

[@MaxwellAerialPhotography]

The M1 and M2 Carbines were also the auto loading rifle of choice for many of the radical revolutionary groups of the 60’s and 70’s. Black Panthers and the Symbonise Liberation Army were probably the most famous users of the M1 carbine of these groups.

[@wesleyviola2823]

My grandfather's GI issue 30 carbine was one if the first guns I learned to shoot once I was able to move up past a 10/22. This is one of my all time favorite rifles. Grandpa's gun still gets dug out of the vault and shot every once and a while.

[@kellyokamoto1604]

We love the M1 Carbine!!! My youngest daughter, now 30 yrs. old, and I would sit and watch Band of Brothers together and she'd lovingly clutch my M1 Carbine while I held my Garand. A few years later I gave her that M1 Carbine and she absolutely LOVED shooting that thing! I eventually had to sell that M1 and I felt terrible but we gotta eat, right? So a couple years ago my friend had stumbled upon an excellent condition Postal Meter M1 Carbine that he offered to me for $100.00!!! SOLD! I gave that M1 Carbine to my daughter for Christmas. She cried. We have fond memories of ol' WWII weapons.

[@kentwilliams4152]

Jimmy Cirillo said that early on in the S.O.U. (NYPD Steak Out Unit) they switched to rifled slugs instead of buckshot for their 12 gauge Ithaca Model 37’s to minimize the possibility of collateral damage. But, if given the choice they would choose the M1 Carbine loaded with JSP ammunition over any other shoulder weapon because, as Jim said, “Any one hit by the M1 Carbine round either was neutralized on site or they had to get to a hospital ASAP.

[@oregonoutback7779]

I love the M1 Carbine. My Dad bought one surplus after WWll. Shot that thing a bunch as a teen and really came to appreciate it. He sold it after I left home. Would love finding an original, but way out of my budget now. Thanks for doing this series.

[@tuberaider]

This episode rocks. I love my M1 Carbine. It's one of the best iterations of the PDW concept.

[@echofoxtrotwhiskey1595]

tuberaider Not really. It’s too long to be considered a PDW by modern standards

[@WALTERBROADDUS]

@@echofoxtrotwhiskey1595 This is the gun that started the term.

[@SlavicCelery]

@@echofoxtrotwhiskey1595 PDW's are not a standardized design, but a functional design. Something to replace a pistol with more effective ammo and range, while being lightweight and portable. Yeah, that's exactly what a PDW was and is.

[@firebrand07]

I have my Carbine for many purposes and being a handloader, never short of ammo. If needed for PDW I will have no fear in using it.

[@MultiMM68]

Great history lesson. As a kid watching old war movies, I was always intrigued by the design of this rifle. And always carried by the. Capt and Lt's of the platoons.

[@WALTERBROADDUS]

That is because traditionally officers were issued only a pistol.

[@rogerd.miller1095]

I have one of the first 500k carbines ever produced, and it is in mint condition. I love everything about it. I love it's history, I love it's utility, and I do not hesitate to take white tail dear with it. Initially I carried the M14 in Vietnam, but as a LRRP leader I found it too heavy, and the new M16 too unreliable. So I carried a Winchester Model 12 as my long arm and a 1911 as my side arm. There is so much history associated with this gun. Thank you for helping to bring it out into the light.

[@Douglas-Ops]

Fantastic info as always, this is the ONE rifle I want in my collection I haven’t got my hand on yet! So iconic. Thanks for sharing

[@bobrowley4346]

M1 Carbines are one of the most misunderstood and underestimated rifles out there. If you have a reliable one, they're perfectly suitable for all defensive needs and aren't bad at small/medium game hunting with an understanding of it's ballistics.

[@Mike-B-Jackson]

Only problem with the gun: everyone loves mine so much they use up all my ammo 🤣.

[@SckharVawn]

i love your profile picture xD

[@alfredmorency8296]

I have the same problem.

[@harrycallahan9733]

Actually it's the price that's the problem. These days there are $400 ARs that are reliable to shoot. I've never seen a $400 M1 Carbine (if it exist, probably will look like sh*t) :)

[@regularfather4708]

@@harrycallahan9733 I got mine for $300. no mags, no handguard, nasty aftermarket folding stock. a quicksearch over to numrich gun parts and a call to the local M1 carbine expert fixed it right up.

[@thetobaccoguy1751]

RELOAD! If I didn't, I couldn't afford to feed all my hungry "girls"

[@lanedexter6303]

These little guns are great fun. My late WWII gun show buddy had no use for it because of the failure to stop that he experienced. But get rid of the FMJ and, with modern expanding bullets, it compares well with a light JHP .357 for stopping power. I loaded the cartridge in the mid 1970’s and very much enjoyed it. Other than a fun toy, think of it today as a Pistol Caliber Carbine.

[@robertnation3077]

Nice to see such a well balanced series on the all time classic M1 carbine!

[@kentwilliams4152]

I served with Jimmy C. At the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. He stated many times that the officers in the S.O.U. (Stake Out Unit) Who arrived on shift typically chose the M1 Carbine first. He stated that anyone hit with the JSP .30 caliber Carbine round immediately stopped whatever they were doing that caused them to be shot. The second choice was a Model 37 Ithaca 12 ga. With a very short barrel (|~14”), but very early on the S.O.U. Switched to the 12 gauge Rifled Slug from buckshot to prevent collateral damage. Third choice was a S&W 9mm sub gun. Side note: Jimmy has a little pin on his hat that was very unique. It had a garbage can with the lid bent up with an eye peaking out with the letters S.O.U. on it. 😀

[@vicarious8989]

I want this gun. My grandpa carried this as a fresh 18yr old in France and Germany.

[@clamum]

Very cool. Never asked my grandpa what he carried but I think my dad said he carried the Garand.

[@silentbigsteve3429]

My grandpa carried a MP40 and Kar98k also in France and Germany :)

[@TheBucketSkill]

@@silentbigsteve3429 Sounds like bullshit. Why does he have both? I thought only NCOs or whatever the german equivalent of that is had MP40's? Or did you just say it to sound cool lol.

[@richardpcrowe]

I did not have access to the M16 during the Vietnam War in which I was a combat cameraman. I usually caried a .45 caliber 1911. Occasionally when I knew I needed a long gun - I had a choice between the M-1 or M-2 carbine or the .45 caliber Grease Gun. I usually chose the carbine because the Grease Gun and its ammo was just too damn heavy. As far as stopping power - I considered it sufficient for my 110 pound enemies. BTW: I don't know if it was the fault of the M-2 carbine or its banana magazines but, our M-2 carbines had a distressing tendency to drop its magazine in full auto fire. So, I chose the M-1 version...

[@MrAJinAZ]

It was Audie Murphy's favorite weapon. What more do you need to know? Some Audie Murphy quotes lifted from the CMP Forum: As a result of the "Carbine vs. Garand use in WWII" thread I picked up a copy of Audie Murphy’s book To Hell and Back (Holt Paperbacks, 2002; first published 1949). While Murphy uses many small arms (BAR, BMG, Garand, Carbine, Thompson, MG42, etc.) he seems to use the M1 Carbine more than anything else. Appears to be his primary arm from Anzio through to the end of the war. Below are a few passages. "Within a moment I am involved in a duel with a German who climbs upon a cannon to get the advantage of elevation. I see him as he lowers his rifle upon me and whip up my carbine. He fires. The bullet kicks dust in my face as my carbine goes off. Frantically I try to blink the dirt from my eyes, knowing the German will not miss again. It is only a few seconds, perhaps, but it seems much longer before I can see. The kraut is sprawled in front of the gun. Later I discover that my lucky shot got him in the heart." (Chapter 15) "Grasping the carbine in my left hand and a grenade in my right, I step suddenly from behind the rock. The Germans spot me instantly. The gunner spins the tip of his weapon toward me. But the barrel catches in a limb, and the burst whizzes to my right. I lob the grenade and grab the carbine trigger with one movement. Before the grenade has time to burst, two krauts fall with carbine slugs in their bellies. I quickly lob two more grenades into the position; four of the eight Germans are killed; three are put out of action by wounds. The eighth, a squat, fat man, tries to escape.....I squeeze the trigger. The helmet jumps. The man falls as if struck in the head with a club." (Chapter 17) "Before reporting to company headquarters, I carefully clean my carbine. ‘I want to go up and try to get that sniper,’ I say....There is a rustle. My eyes snap forward. The branches of a bush move. I drop to one knee. We see each other simultaneously. His face is a black as a rotting corpse; and his cold eyes are filled with evil. As he frantically reaches for the safety of his rifle, I fire twice. He crashes backwards....At headquarters I make my report. Then I go to the room that serves as a kitchen, take my carbine apart, and start cleaning it." (Chapter 17) "Crack! It is like being struck with a ball bat. The ricocheting bullet digs a channel through my hip and knocks me flat....I raise my carbine and with my right hand fire pistol-fashion. The bullet spatters between the German’s eyes." (Chapter 18) "'Wonder if I could get a carbine. I don’t like an M-1 for this woods fighting.'" (Chapter 19) "The [German] officer hesitates. My finger begins squeezing the trigger of my carbine. I think perhaps with a quick rake I can put most of the Germans out of action, but at this moment, I would give my chances in Paradise to have a tommy gun in my hands." (Chapter 14)

[@Kevin-kb8gj]

Great video Chris. I kinda like the less formal video format for stuff like this.

[@lonewanderer3603]

I think one of the coolest things about this is all the companies that were making them. IBM and General Motors, I think even Rockola (the jukebox company) made them.

[@bbb462cid]

Absolutely they did.

[@nixter8739]

I think mine's a saginaw, tranny manufacturer.

[@Jerry-rf8bn]

The M1 carbine was the rifle I used to qualify "expert" during Air Force basic training in 1964. According to the barrel markings, it was made in 1941. Very comfortable rifle to use.

[@justcallmejoeable]

Yes! More gel tests! Hope to see some .44 Magnum testing too!

[@CeltKnight]

I'll 2nd the .44 mag tests ... especially from shorter barrels, say 4" and 3".

[@joebob4609]

3rd

[@CeltKnight]

Why not? A lot of people own and carry .44 Magnums, and many more carry-friendly models are available now, from 3" N frames to 5-shot, short barrelled L-frames. Inquiring minds wanna know.

[@tmaddrummer]

During the mid to late 70's, I had the M1 Carbine and 870 in my Patrol car and a .357 Magnum on my hip and a .380 Walther PPK/S in my boot or in my winter coat pocket, and they all served me well...... Thanks and Blessings!

[@b.hessing1182]

My grandpa was a radio operator during WW2 and carried one of these through Italy and into Austria. He bought one after the war and it ended up with my Dad. I've always wanted my own since shooting it, but they are incredibly expensive today. Lucky for me I found a vendor at a recent gun show selling a Rock-Ola for $450 bucks. He didn't like selling "old war guns", so I took it off his hands and now we're both happy.

[@bigbake132]

Wow! That's a steal for that Rock-Ola. Take care of that one.

[@shelbyseelbach9568]

I have a rock-ola, but it is a reproduction.

[@regularfather4708]

I bought one a few years ago for $300. came with a horrible aftermarket folding stock, no handguard, no magazine, heavy finish wear... but to me it was perfect. $50 worth of parts, and mags, and trading up the stock with a friend made my little carbine sing again. It's one of my favorite firearms to this day.

[@NonyaDamnbusiness]

Carbine Williams was a family friend. We've got several M1 Carbines in the collection.

[@josephrouleau1205]

A benefit not mentioned, yet,, in this the first video is that the soldier in the field could carry twice or three times the ammo of an M-1 Garand because of the lighter weight and smaller size. I m sure it will be mentioned in follow up vids on the M-1 Carbine.

[@andrewhaley8992]

I have two M1 carbines love them. I farm for a living, so this really is my ranch rifle. I like the PPU soft points.

[@smc1942]

Andrew Haley ; Yep! Good ammo! I use it too.

[@stolenhal0]

Also have used as a ranch gun. Does extremely well for this purpose.

[@TheMuffs2004]

Every time I see an M1 Carbine I can't help but think of one of my old 1SG's. He collected WW1 and WW2 era firearms, knives, and swords. If it was a firearm issued to soldiers from either of those wars, he either had an original (which was the majority of the items in his collection are originals) or a high quality reproduction. The only ones he didn't have originals of were the M1 Carbine, MP-40, and other automatics because he did not collect automatics due to the cost of originals but he did inherit two automatics through a trust from his grandfather but has since sold them. They were a Thompson and a BAR. I don't know how much he got for them but he did say that he wouldn't have to worry about paying for college for his two kids. He two really good repro's of the M1 Carbine but had never found an original from the manufacturer he wanted for what he would consider a reasonable price. I had a few good friends that were collectors always keeping an ear out for him and he eventually found one just before I left the unit.

[@constantinvaldor1498]

First gun I ever shoot was an M1 carbine when I was 7 years old. I have 3 now and still love them!

[@farwalker3672]

I remember my dad and I shooting the M1 carbine he picked up after the Korean War. It was a nice step up from the 22 rifle that we used to plink with. A lot of good memories shooting that rifle with my dad as a youngster. Wish I still had one. Thanks for sharing

[@WALTERBROADDUS]

That is why thousands were given to South Korea, South Vietnam, and other nations as surplus. It was a better fit for smaller troops than a heavy Garand.

[@reccesam7799]

I like the format. Keep up the quality content.

[@Music-lx1tf]

I did Nam for 16+ months so I have a bit of experience. NEVER go under gunned. My dad did the Pacific and was on the second wave of Tarawa and the black sands. He didn't say much about it. One night just before I left we got a bit drunk. He swore at the M-1 carbine. He spoke of watching a Jap soldier charge them and his buddy put 5 rounds dead center and the enemy still had the strength to try and throw a grenade at them. Dad said he knocked him down with one shot from his Grand.

[@justjimmy4171]

This was the first rifle I ever shot. Love it! Also appreciate the realistic approach to its capabilities (both limits and advantages.)

[@richbutler7828]

As a WW2 collector and a long time owner of a Nov. 1943 made NPM M1 Carbine Thank's for making a great video on this history soaked little firearm

[@Cysubtor_8vb]

I always used to overlook the M1 Carbine until I saw Paul's vid on it where he mentions an old, popular ballistics book mistakenly list the performance of the cartridge at around .357 Magnum levels and that many sources continue to spread these incorrect figures while it's actually a bit more powerful than that.

[@LuckyGunner]

There are a lot of factory .357 Magnum loads that well exceed the muzzle energy of M1 Carbine when fired out of a rifle-length barrel. But .357 Mag from a revolver is not even close.

[@springbloom5940]

No, a 30 carbine is roughly as powerful at the muzzle, as a 4" 357Mag. It has slightly better external ballistics, because it has a better ballistic coefficient. But energy, for the most common/popular loading, is close enough to be called equal.

[@steelgila]

@@springbloom5940 I read in an NRA publication which featured some M-1 carbine facts that M-1 projectile 100yds down range has considerably more muzzle energy than .357 at the muzzle. Handgun, though, not .357 rifle which may well exceed M-1's muzzle energy.

[@springbloom5940]

@@steelgila Just not true. You can do the math, yourself.

[@samuelzuleger5134]

Just found your channel and I love it. That said, I have to voice in on this one. When I was younger, I often spoke with my Grandfather, who was a member of the 1st Cavalry Division and part of the first units to arrive at Pohong in 18 July, 1950. He was a platoon-level radio operator who was responsible for coordination and artillery and air support (I think he carried an SRC-300). As such, he was issued the M-1 Carbine. He hated it, noting that he swapped it for an M-1 Garrand after one mile of marching. However, he mentioned that he understood the problems the weapon faced in Korea. As you mentioned, the weapon had issues in the cold. There is more to it, as it was only freezing in Korea half the time. Most of the M-1 Carbines were used WWII weapons, so they had seen a lot of battlefield wear and tear prior to the War, reducing overall accuracy and potency as the rounds were just as old. In addition, the geography was cleared fields and mountains, so most engagements started beyond 300 yards. As a squad to platoon-level radio operator, he was on the line and expected to be a rifleman in between calling for support, especially as US troops were almost always outnumbered. This meant that he needed something that could kill at range. Then again, prior to becoming the unit radioman, my grandfather was the unit light machine gunner and was used to carrying a Browning Automatic Rifle on marches, so the 10 pound weight of the M-1 Garrand was comparatively light to him.

[@BrennerBay]

I remember seeing .30 carbines for sale at Sears

[@danielbush2637]

My Dad has talked about that before. Me and him were finally able to go in together and get one a while back.

[@thurin84]

and woolworths

[@player4life11111]

If Sears still sold M1 Carbines and classic WW2, they would not be bankrupt!😬Good times....

[@deplorabledave1048]

I have seen dozens of videos on the M1 carbine. This is probably the best of the bunch. Extremely well done, sir! I can't begin to tell you how much I enjoyed watching and listening to this video. Subbed!!!! PS: I have bought ammo from Lucky Gunner many times.

[@RangerHouston]

"The Carbine doesn't function well in cold weather!" *Laughs in Bastogne*

[@9014jayvictor]

LPS 1

[@Imanalientraveler]

Dont use oil to lube bolt or slide dry works great or use light graphite dust . ;-)

[@buckstaffvvile9064]

Not a shooter as a kid, but in the summer of 1960, Uncle Sam taught me to shoot the M-1 Garand. Qualified as sharpshooter. When I was assigned to my unit, a service troop company, I had to qualify with my TO&E M-1 carbine. Shot expert with it. Love both of these, own neither because I am too old, feeble and jittery to shoot.

[@hshs5756]

Audie Murphy, who I would bet could have gotten his hands on any weapon he wanted, was carrying an M-1 carbine when he got hit. The German sniper had just killed Audie's best friend with a head shot, then bungled his second shot hitting Audie in the hip, putting Audie down. Then the German tangled in his own sniper veil working the bolt for a third shot, giving Audie the time he needed to get off a one-handed shot from the prone position that caught the German in the head. I have my doubts that Audie could have made that shot with the much heavier Garand.

[@LuckyGunner]

It's also worth noting that Audie Murphy was initially turned down from the Army, Navy, and Marines for being underweight. He was only 18-19 during the war and not a big guy. So the M1 Carbine makes a lot of sense.

[@mnubs7975]

Audie Murphy was also, in all accounts, a great marksman.

[@GeorgiaBoy1961]

@@LuckyGunner - Murphy, like a lot of entrants into the military around that time, was somewhat malnourished due to the severity of the Depression years. But "Little Texas" sure made those Navy and Marine Corps recruiters look foolish when he finally got his chance in the army. Sometimes, it isn't the size of the dog, it's the size of the fight in him - and Murphy had it in spades. Not only a great military man, but an underrated actor, too. Many of his western films hold up well today. We lost him too soon ....

[@Oldbmwr100rs]

@@GeorgiaBoy1961 At the beginning of the war, malnourished recruits were a big problem and all the branches had to put programs in place just to get many soldiers fed enough just to make it through basic. The depression was still very real for much of the country at the time, and men were anxious to join the military just for a chance to work and for food.

[@GeorgiaBoy1961]

@@Oldbmwr100rs -Yes, you are quite correct. A lot of guys found army food substandard, but not Audie Murphy. He was just happy to have something decent to eat, and enough of it. During the depths of the Great Depression,if he didn't bag anything hunting at daybreak, his family often didn't eat. Doesn't get any more real than that....

[@chickenmon]

I love this series already! Great work!

[@richardstephens5570]

The M1 Carbine was Audie Murphy's weapon of choice. He liked it because of it's light weight.

[@ricardorodriguez5549]

Pretty much all I need to know. He was an amazing man.

[@samuelyoung4646]

My late Grandfather bought/ordered one years ago for $25 on a Sear’s catalogue. My dad now owns it and I love shooting it ever so often. Beautiful rifle, works flawlessly (unless you use steel cased Russian stuff lol!). My dad was so shocked when it punched a perfect hole in a 1/4” steel target that we were popping with our .22’s. He still talks about it! XD

[@nathangilbert7774]

Love my winchester M1 carbine its an old fighter

[@nathangilbert7774]

Broadsidejohn my dad gave it to me. He bought it in a pawn shop in the 80s for $400

[@nathangilbert7774]

Broadsidejohn classic firearms is doing a giveaway for an unissued rockola rn

[@smithn.wesson495]

@Broadsidejohn The Winchester M1's are EXTREMELY rare. Takes a miracle from God to find one at a gun show.

[@nathangilbert7774]

Smith N. Wesson really? I knew they were some of the earlier ones but I never knew it was that hard to find.

[@smithn.wesson495]

Nathan Gilbert Yes, for at a gun show for a Winchester. You can find a few on Gun Broker, but the Winchester M1’s go as high as $2,500, maximum for a perfect one. Even GB does not have a lot of Winchesters to choose from.

[@mjordan812]

USAF Basic Training in 1963 - the carbine was the weapon that we qualified with. Wouldn't mind having one now.

[@S1L3NTG4M3R]

The M1 Carbine is one of my FAVs...

[@Voucher765]

Same here.

[@TrayDyer38]

Absolutely, I had the same experience. Once I picked up the M1 carbine I absolutely fell In love with it.

[@darronlockett9211]

The Viet Cong used them in Vietnam. Gotta keep track of your guns when you are done with them.

[@radamson1]

I think you meant ARVIN's, I never saw an NVA or VC with a 30 Car. but a hell of a lot of South Vietnamese were armed with surplus WWII weapons 30 Car. BARs, 30 air-cooled, and grease guns.

[@Docinaplane]

Since I first saw this gun as a young teenager, the M1 Carbine has always been my favorite rifle. I have an old Nylon 66 22, and they seem to have the same shape. Thank you!

[@swaghauler8334]

The original US Army "assault rifle" was the M2 Carbine with a 30-round mag.

[@Robert-qm7yi]

swaghauler The original US "assault rifle" was the 1860 Henry, load on sunday and shoot southern rebels all week

[@ALovelyBunchOfDragonballz]

1917 Burton, if we're putting "assault rifle" in quotes.

[@Megames2012]

Technically, yes, but there were so few issued, I would still say the M16 was the first.

[@davidduafala3050]

The BAR is the first US assualt rifle

[@ALovelyBunchOfDragonballz]

@@davidduafala3050 Invalid statement: caliber outside of acceptable parameters.

[@joebuchanan9563]

Like your video and appreciate the information. I qualified with the M-1 Carbine in USAF basic training and I enjoyed shooting it. Your comparisons of it with the AR's or AK's are correct and I would say the M-1 Carbine's biggest attraction for me would be historical. Just something special about shooting a gun like my Dad or Uncle would have carried during WW 2.

[@oliverallen5324]

I think I heard about someone’s grandmother going on walks at night with an M1 Carbine slung over her shoulder.

[@hugebartlett1884]

Nobody would mess with her while she was packing that artillery!

[@yooyoolah5550]

This and the 1899 era Springfield 30 40 krag carbine and a m1 garand chambered for .22, have been handed down from my father's father to me after they passed. Great historical items and heavy with family history. Dont know there worth today but they are priceless to our family.

[@montanamountainmen6104]

I have a M1 Carbine , its the best short range (150 yard) rifle ever made.

[@bbb462cid]

agree.

[@ViktoriousDead]

MontanaMountainMen 30-30? Mini-14? I'd argue against that

[@montanamountainmen6104]

@@ViktoriousDead No doubt the 30-30 is a great rifle I own one too. But the M1 Carbine is just flat fun , can kill deer , I've done it and are I don't know just fun to shoot, carry .

[@Voucher765]

At close quarters. 30 Carbine is similar in stopping power to magnum and hunting rounds so despite what most claim that this bullet cannot penetrate wool uniforms or most hard surfaces that's purely a myth.

[@montanamountainmen6104]

@@Voucher765 True.

[@howardkahn4330]

This guy is in my opinion is the best at what he does....i find him creditable and fair in his valuations, gives excellent and complete details and i trust his advice...

[@nailbomb3006]

The M1 Carbine, Glock 19, and Ruger 10/22 are the top 3 guns likely to become “theirs” after letting your wife (girlfriend, teen, etc.) shoot them. Medium frame 4” .38spl with wadcutters gets honorable mention.

[@SwampSquatch70]

nailbomb3006 my wife loves her Ruger 10/22 that I bought here. She jacked my Ruger police service 6 lmao

[@Joseph-eh4rs]

This is the best M1 carbine review out they. Great job!!!

[@swaghauler8334]

Ok, now we need to see the "opposing viewpoint" on the M1 series from Manny Mansfield! :)

[@stevejenkins9984]

Hell ya I'm an m1 fan all day. I'd love to see how they Stack Up compared to what we have today. Personally I have an M1 that gets used. My AR-15 collects dust

[@philipvecchio3292]

My Grandfather carried one of these while on patrols in the jungles of the South Pacific and had an air cooled 1919 on his back. The m-1 carbine was almost the first Assault rifle. If I was clearing a French town from German Occupiers, I would absolutely want one of these. The detachable magazine, semi-auto with a longer barrel. Probably the most modern rifle of WW2, especially for the Americans

[@hezigler]

What about the Ruger Blackhawk revolver chambered in .30 M1 Carbine? They were popular in the late 1960s & '70s when there was a lot of surplus ammo.

[@WALTERBROADDUS]

Still in production. There have been a few handguns in .30 Carbine. But the Blackhawk is the most notable.

[@ElijahDecker]

I had a roommate who owns one. Easily the loudest pistol I've ever fired, and the muzzle blast produces a three foot diameter fireball. .30 carbine is optimized for an 18" barrel. There's still a lot of powder burning when it exits an 8" barrel.

[@33Luger]

Most inaccurate revolver I have ever shot. Hope it was only that one.

[@AS-zk6hz]

Had one in the airforce a really nice weapon. Our air police reserve unit was equipped with them prior to the m16

[@buliwyf3236]

i have always LOVED the paratrooper version!

[@CeltKnight]

I've always been a fan of the .30 carbine. The vets to whom I've spoken that actually used it (key point) all loved it. I agree with the sentiment that some of the biggest complaints were generated by people who put it to uses for which it was never designed. One fellow told me "The worked fine for their intended purpose but then folks started trying to use them for deer hunting and decided they weren't any good." Years ago I wound up with a Universal copy (I know, I know, but mine works great so long as I use good magazines). I replaced all the springs, kept it properly lubricated, etc, and it runs fine. I used it as a response/patrol carbine sometimes, back in the day. Sadly I remember back in the day when it seemed they were almost giving them away at every gun shop, though now even the less well-made copies are up there with the cost of more modern (and arguably more useful) platforms. To this day, mine is one of my go-to house guns, loaded with soft-point ammo that it likes. 110 grain, soft point bullet at just a hair under 2k fps ... It's not a .223, but one could do a lot worse. ;)

[@robinbrobjer2594]

Someone: the m1 garand is a heavy gun Me: laughs in G3

[@raywest7570]

My service weapon (1958 & 9) was an M2. It served me well. Good gun.

[@SteelBuckeye]

I wish I could have gotten mine to cycle correctly before the unfortunate boating accident.

[@xtcrider8270]

Ok boomer

[@kentwilliams4152]

I served with Jim Cirillo at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. Jim served in the S.O.U. (Stake Out Unit) which used three shoulder weapons; The 12 ga. Ithaca shotgun, the M-1 Carbine and the S&W 9mm SMG. Jim said to me on several occasions that the M-1 Carbine was the shoulder weapon of choice because of it’s light weight and the use of JSP .30 Carbine ammunition. He said that anyone hit with the Jacketed Soft Point round either was DRT or, had to immediately go to the hospital. The Ithaca Model - 37 were initially loaded with 00 buckshot, but in short order the 00 Buckshot round was replaced by the rifled slug. And lastly, Jim said that no one liked the S&W SMG due to it’s high malfunction rate.

[@Voucher765]

Jim Crlillo and the crew used surplus GI ammo being sold on the market and in comparison to the typical 12 gauge shotguns and standard issue revolvers the NYPD was using at that time it was a powerful weapon against high profile criminals who were armed with military grade automatics.

[@sparkywilson1405]

I'm still waiting on those Korean M1 Carbines.

[@danielbush2637]

Sparky Wilson Don’t hold your breath. I’m afraid it’s not going to happen at this point. However, Royal tiger imports recently got a batch in from Ethiopia. They may still have some.

[@sparkywilson1405]

@@danielbush2637 Where'd you hear that from? Thanks for pointing out the Ethiopian carbines though, you've got me drooling.

[@doncrawford8872]

Your video brings back memories! On our ranch in South Texas these made excellent saddle guns.

[@jamesconner-myers4375]

I'd be interested in seeing some 50m or 100m 5 round groups with a couple different loads. Thanks for the new topic. I kinda want an M1a1 now, since I'm a paratrooper.

[@scottriley1913]

This firearm rocks, I’m using this weapon as one of my first line weapons now. Easy to clean, reliable, shoots a comparable 357 mag with accuracy at 150 yards. Shoots first time every time, reliable, ton of 30 rounds mags. This weapon produces. It was a quick build by Winchester when pressed by the gov for WWII, this firearm was a home run.

[@williamneal7210]

4:25 look at the pup--doesn't know or care there's a World war going on--only knows its Master is here in the hole and all is right in the world

[@stephenlacher587]

Gotta' love the puppy!

[@jesspeters1213]

I first became familiar with the Carbine in JROTC in the early 1960s along with the Garrand. Then later had one issued to me in 67 in the Army. Always loved the little carbine. It remains my favorite. Everyone that tries mine does too.

[@stephen8433]

I had one as my home defense weapon. I should never have traded it.

[@Voucher765]

That rifle is probably worth a lot of cash now.

[@thorman944]

the problem with M1 garand is NOT the weight, it is the cartridge. The WEIGHT is necessary for the average person to deal with the recoil of the 30-06 cartridge, even in the mild military version. 30-06 will drop a moose or elk in its tracks at 600 yards. WAAAAYYY more than is necessary for general infantry duty. .243 Winchester or .257 Roberts were not around during WW2. Honestly, a 6lbs .243 based on M1 carbine would be IDEAL.