Underwood M1 Carbine.

35 Whelen

June 06, 2017 15:16

An acquaintance of mine had me take a look at his Underwood carbine, to try and get a decent idea of what it might be worth. Looking it over, and based off what I can find online, it appears to be very near if not 100% correct, with overall condition, IMO, being around 90%, maybe 95%, counting the finish on all metal. The serial number is in the 1.36 million range, flat bolt, push button safety, and the barrel is stamped "Underwood 3-43" (rifling looks perfect).

The one thing I don't have is pictures, and I don't think he'll allow any to be taken. I've tried to describe it the best I can, but I'm sure there's only so much that can be done with basic details and numbers. I apologize for not being able to supply any pictures.

It's honestly the nicest carbine I've ever looked at, and doesn't look like it saw much use.

What would be a basic, rounded-off value, based on my description, if it truly is 100% authentic, never rebuilt, in that condition?

Thanks.[:)]

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  nmyers

  June 06, 2017 15:22

  My SWAG is that, assuming bright, shiny bore, flip sight with no stake marks in the rear sight dove tail, it would sell in the $1,500-1,800 range.
  
  Neal

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  charliemeyer007

  June 06, 2017 16:06

  Do an advanced search on completed auction and look carefully at pics and descriptions to compare to the condition your buddy's is in.
  
  Small dents and handling marks cost less than extra drilled holes or hacksaw damage modifications.

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  thorhammer

  June 06, 2017 18:22

  The serial number puts it the early production of Underwood carbines,
  
  this would include the high wood stock and even an I cut for the
  
  oiler. Also the handguard would have the early 2 rivets instead of
  
  four. These features would command premium prices. Minus features
  
  would be a bayonet lug, the adjustable sight and Underwood's were
  
  not rare, being third highest production of carbines during the war.
  
  Nonetheless since it's never been rebuilt and has all original parts
  
  would start at $1500 and go up from there. Only a serious collector
  
  would bid on it, and they are few in number.
  
  I see most auctions have a hidden reserve so you can't ascertain
  
  their end value and most bidders are doing "sport" bidding, falling
  
  far short of the reserve.....maybe trying to get the seller to lower
  
  the reserve the next time around.
  
  If he needs an insurance estimate a round figure of $2000 would
  
  guarantee his homeowners policy would be immediately canceled, and
  
  all carbine owners all over would swoon thinking they have their
  
  retirement sewed up. Alas only to see Rock-ola carbines receive any
  
  bids, in any condition.
  
  good luck, Thor

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  35 Whelen

  June 07, 2017 15:01

  Thanks for the input, all.[:)]

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