Plainfield M1 Carbine Paratrooper .30 Carbine Semi-Auto Rifle, 17.75" Barrel, 1977 Production
Built in 1977, this Plainfield Machine Co. M1 Carbine Paratrooper recreates the WWII-era M1A1 Airborne Carbine for civilian shooters. A folding wire stock, chrome-moly 17.75" barrel, and Parkerized/blued steel receiver capture the look and handling of the original while keeping weight low and compact for transport. Late Plainfield production before the company’s sale to Iver Johnson adds collectible interest.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good – Shows some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minor scratching, scuffing, and blemishing are visible on metal and wood surfaces, consistent with normal field handling.
What’s Included
- 2 × 15-round steel GI-pattern magazines
- Canvas GI-style web sling (installed)
- Clamp-on barrel Picatinny accessory rail (installed)
The investment-cast steel receiver is marked “PLAINFIELD MACH. / DUNELLEN, N.J. / CAL. .30 M1,” confirming its U.S. manufacture and Plainfield heritage.
The short-stroke gas piston action remains true to the wartime design, offering reliable semi-automatic cycling with modern ammunition.
A wire side-folding stock with steel hardware locks solidly for firing yet folds flat to trim overall length for storage or transport—an original Airborne feature that collectors appreciate. The wooden pistol grip and matching wood upper handguard provide classic feel and heat protection.
The chrome-moly steel barrel retains a 17.75" length, balancing velocity and maneuverability. Parkerized/blued metalwork offers period-correct protection, while the installed clamp-on Picatinny rail lets the shooter add modern lights or optics without altering the carbine.
Standard iron sights include a protected front blade and an adjustable aperture rear, delivering the familiar sight picture of service-grade M1 Carbines. With two original-pattern magazines and an installed GI sling, this Plainfield is ready for the range or the collection shelf.