Inland Barrel Question

[thorin6]

I've posted this on the MILSURPs board as well.

I have three questions on Inland barrels and would appreciate any help.

1. At approximately what serial number (or range of serial number) did Inland switch from bluing to parkerization of barrels/receivers?

2. In the photo below, there is the outline of an I-I (two serif I’s with a dash between) stamped on the front of the gas cylinder. Does anyone have any idea why that mark is there?



3. In the photo below, there is a distinct change in the finish of the barrel. In that the stock is not the original stock, it appears to me as if the barrel has spent time in a stock with the long barrel channel (the change seems to appear at the point the long barrel channel would begin). Is this a reasonable explanation for this transition? Another possibility is this is where the barrel band sat when the barrel/receiver was finished.



Thanks for any help.

[Newscotlander]

1. The change from the use of black oxide to a phosphate finish on barrels and receivers (by Inland) took place in the Spring of 1943. The actual serial number changeover point can vary widely for a few different reasons.

2. The I-I mark on the gas cylinder indicates a part made by Inland, for Inland production. There were several different manufacturers of gas cylinders for Inland production.

3. I'm not exactly sure what you are talking about. Are you referring to the change from a glossy black oxide finish to a matte black oxide finish that takes place between 1/2 and 1 inch in front of the gas cylinder and extends to the muzzle (see photo)? If so, that is where the barrel was grit blasted prior to application of the black oxide finish. It was done at the factory.

What is the serial number of your carbine?

[thorin6]

Serial number is 2904xx (don't remember the last two, posting this at work), and the barrel date is 3-43. I would think that would put this right at the end of the black oxide finish Newscotlander has mentioned.
I have posted more info on this carbine which can be found here:

http://www.milsurps.com/showthread.php?t=14371

Also, BrianQ has provided similiar information on the milsurps forum.

Appreciate the help on this.

[Newscotlander]

I don't post on Milsurp. Don't like the way it's moderated.