The first semi-automatic sniper rifle adopted by the U.S. military, the M1C sniper rifle was developed in 1944 and was the standard issue sniper rifle during late World War II, Korea and saw use into Vietnam. The M1C was an effective weapon but intricate in construction; one would need to take a receiver off the line mid-production, ship it to Griffin & Howe of New York for scope rail installation, then return it to Springfield to be made into a complete rifle. While in theory superseded by the more armorer-friendly M1D, the M1C served well as a primary sniper rifle. It is estimated that approximately 4,000 were produced during World War II with hundreds provided to various NATO allies in the late 1950s/early 1960s and hundreds destroyed by the U.S. Government in the 1980/90s. The receiver of this rifle was manufactured in April of 1945, with blade front and peep rear sights with battle range elevation markings, closed arrows and lock bar, "1-S-A-6-45" barrel, Springfield "-19SA" bolt, correct "SA" trigger components, and uncut "9 SA" operating rod, and single slot gas plug. The scope rail/bracket is secured to the side with three screws and two pins, matching serial numbered "3691204" to the rifle on the underside, with a Griffin & Howe patent marked ring assembly matching numbered "3691204" to the rifle. The scope is blue finished, with M82 markings, serial numbered "38653", rubber eyepiece and with single post reticle. The left of the smooth pistol grip stock is stamped with a boxed "S.A./N.F.R." inspection cartouche and crossed cannons cartouche, circled "P" proof stamped on the wrist, with an olive drab green canvas sling, K Line brown leather cheekpiece, and a checkered steel buttplate. Includes a Garand Collectors Association data sheet, and a consignor supplied letter with a quote from acknowledged M1C authority Dave McClain that indicates this rifle looks to be original late World War II as it left Springfield Armory, and "It's about as nice as you will ever find." Includes an unnumbered CMP shipping box with June 1998 shipping date.

Excellent plus overall, retains 98% plus original parkerized finish with a few minor handling marks, defined edges and sharp cartouches on the excellent original stock. Mechanically excellent. The scope retains 95% plus original blue finish with some light wear rings around the sun shade, and crisp clear optics. The box is fine. This excellent World War II U.S. Springfield M1C sniper rifle with M82 scope, matching bracket and mount would make an exceptional addition to any U.S. military arms collection!