M1 carbine numbers on stock

[38snapcaps]

I'm looking at a possible purchase of a 12/44 Inland that has large numbers stamped in the wood of the stock, left side, forward of the sling/oiler opening. They're not the same as the serial number.
Anyone know what they mean and who put them there?

 

[rcmodel]

Could have been a re-import from Israel, Bavaria, or other foreign country.
They were big on stamping serial numbers or rack numbers on the stocks.
If it doesn't match the serial it probably just means it got put on the wrong barreled action during cleaning by the importer or somebody.

I'd look for importers marks on the metal somewhere.

rc

 

[HKGuns]

Pictures would help. Also, are there any other numbers along with those anywhere else on the rifle?

 

[38snapcaps]

HK-no other numbers other than the serial number in the usual place. No import marks either. The numbers on the stock are about 3/4" high. They obviously have been stamped one at a time, the spacing is irregular.

 

[Tim the student]

Might be rack numbers from a foreign army. I doubt the US has ever stamped in rack numbers.

How many are there? 2 or 3? My bet is a rack number if so.

 

[HKGuns]

If there are no other numbers or letters elsewhere, I think the student is correct. There were some Bavarian Carbines that came through the CMP in the last few years, but they are marked elsewhere and the numbers are consistent in the different areas.

Here is the link to the Bavarian Carbines so you can rule it out yourself based on what you see on the rifle.

Bavarian Carbines