Hello Everyone,
I’m in need of a gunsmith as I have an M1 Carbine that is not cycling and only firing single shots. I have never needed one before and I’m trying to get an idea of an average hourly rate so I know if what I’ll be quotes is reasonable. What is a reasonable rate to pay a gunsmith? Or does anyone know what might be causing my carbine to not cycle?
Gunsmiths, like computer people are a broadly skilled and priced bunch. Best way, call any local ones in the phone book and ask what they charge, ask them for a scenario or two they might think the problem could be and what the charge for that typically is. Tell them you realize that its not a binding thing you are just looking for what you might need to be prepared for. Dont keep them on the phone for a long time. The scenarios are important as the guy who charges $100/hr but finishes in an hour is vs. guy who takes 2 hours @ $60 is obviously more expensive. Also ask about warranty/follow up work policies. Higher rate smiths will probably be more flexible with any perceived issues…
If you have a VFW, American Legion Post, or some other veterans organization nearby, you could probably swing by and ask around for a local gunsmith recommendation. In my experience, there is always a group of old vets who own Garands and M1 carbines around.
I do repair work at my shop. I quote stuff all the time. I charge by the job, not specifically the hour. When asking for a quote be specific, the guy will give a better answer.
IANAGS.
IIRC, the way the mechanism works is that gasses from the propellant are allowed to enter a gas port. These gasses drive the piston rearward and that, in turn, pushes the bolt back. My guess is that the gas port is clogged and needs to be cleaned. Did this problem happen after cleaning?
The Auto Ordinance M1 Carbine owner’s manual shows an exploded view of the carbine. You may need to C&P the url http://www.auto-ordnance.com/PDF/aom1_manual.pdf, as on preview the hypertext link didn’t work.
This Shotgun News article gives a very brief description of how to clean the gas port.
M1 Carbine Gas Piston Removal/Installation. This video is over 10 minutes long, so I haven’t watched; but at the beginning it says ‘this is the last resort if your carbine is not firing.’
You’ll need a piston nut wrench. The link is to amazon.com, and the wrench is $15. You may or may not be able to find it cheaper elsewhere.
Anyway, in my non-expert opinion I’d look at the gas port first. You may not even need a gunsmith.
This is genius. 4 old farts with 109 years of experience between them will fight to help you, and someone will give you a beer while you watch.
I think stopping by and asking them about this - or anything - will make their day.
These men still have so much to contribute to us, and we never think to ask.
I really think this is a great idea, and it makes me think that I’ll keep these guys in mind for my scout group. They may not need an M1 gone through just yet, or need to kill a guy with their thumbs, but bringing them together on some projects now and then would benefit everyone.
Sassy, thanks for that suggestion. When I become Emperor, you shall be spared.
Generally, skilled technicians charge on the order of $60-$120 dollars an hour. A gunsmith should fall in or near this range.
Thanks for the links. I’ve suspected that the gas port is clogged, but didn’t know how to clean it. I’m a do it yourself type, so I’ll watch the video and if it looks doable I’ll try to tackle it myself before taking it in. Thanks everyone. Also, the VFW suggestion is a great one. Sally I have consulted Edith a few veterans on this issue, but almost all have been Vietnam era veterans unfamiliar with the inner workings of the carbine. Trying to find WWII or Korea veterans these days is not easy. We are losing these great men, there aren’t many left.