1943 National Postal Meter M1 Carbine .30 Carbine Semi-Auto Rifle – Raritan Arsenal Rebuild with Accessory Rail
This National Postal Meter M1 Carbine was manufactured in 1943 during the first production block and later refurbished at Raritan Arsenal. With only about 413,000 NPM carbines produced—roughly 6.8% of total WWII output—this rifle stands out for its lower-volume maker, correct mid-war features, and documented arsenal overhaul. A discreet accessory rail added to the underside of the barrel provides modern versatility without affecting the carbine’s classic profile.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good — shows some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good — clean, well-maintained with minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good — intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The parkerized finish exhibits edge wear and small handling marks, while the hardwood stock and two-rivet handguard show scattered dings typical of service use.
What’s Included
- 1 × 15-round USGI steel box magazine
- USGI green cotton web sling with brass oiler (installed)
- After-market short accessory rail section mounted under barrel
National Postal Meter carbines are prized for their limited wartime production and the unique mix of subcontracted parts they employed. Serial 1,476,600 places this rifle squarely in early 1943, matching the two-rivet upper handguard and Type II protected-post front sight seen here.
Raritan Arsenal’s post-war refurbishment introduced the Type II adjustable aperture rear sight, a common upgrade that improved elevation and windage control without altering original function. The carbine retains the original straight-cut barrel band without a bayonet lug, preserving its mid-war configuration.
The 18-inch ordnance-steel barrel, parkerized steel receiver, and hardwood stock keep weight low while delivering the quick-handling characteristics that defined the M1 platform. A push-button magazine release, cross-bolt safety, and short-stroke gas piston action maintain the rifle’s straightforward, reliable operation.
A short accessory rail added beneath the barrel offers a mounting point for modern lights or bipods while remaining unobtrusive—an easily reversible modification that adds practical flexibility for range use.