USGI .30 Mi Carbine Sling
I have two GM M1 Carbines, both manufactured in 1943. One has matching numbers on the metal and wood, the other is a Korean War Lend-Lease return mongrel. Neither have re-importer marks. Both have nylon slings on them, one sling is marked 1990. I'd like to replace the slings with whatever was proper for that time-period. I've seen "original" USGI cotton slings advertised, both in khaki and green, but it looks like there are different types of metal ends. I've seen some as having "D type metal ends" and "C type metal ends."
What type is proper for an early-WWII Issue M1 Carbine?
What type is proper for an early-WWII Issue M1 Carbine?
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"Matching numbers" is a guaranty that the first carbine is an import, as they were never issued by the US military with matching number. Imports were often stamped on the barrel, so it's possible that both have had parts replaced.
While the 1990 dated sling is probably foreign-made, all other types you described could have been issued in 1943. Those with D end caps continued to be issued through the 1970's. Your "best" sling would be a C end cap with a WWII date, but there are many bogus ones out there.
It's not like you are trying to complete a restoration. Both your carbines are mongrels; any sling should be fine, as long as it is cotton & has a lift-the-dot fastener. Just be sure that the end cap will fit through the oiler (many imported slings fail this test).
Neal0 -
No US issue small arms of the period except revolvers (and maybe Special Services shotguns) carried serial numbers anywhere except on the receiver. 100% interchangeability negated the need for individualized part serializing in the services for many years before WW1.
As I recall in Korea, khaki cotton slings with "D" shaped crimped on, parkerized ends were issued. There was no Nylon web gear then.
Due to a tight fit,it was a pain to thread the slings around the oilers and back out so I doubt the oilers were used much.0
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