Rifleman Q&A: Augusta Arsenal M1A1 Rework

by
posted on June 25, 2022
Left side M1A1 Carbine paratrooper wire folding stock wood canvas sling

Q. For many years, I have owned an M1A1 carbine that is probably an arsenal rework. The receiver and barrel are Winchester. The stock is properly marked inside the fore-end, on the bottom of the grip and on the buttplate. But, my question concerns the arsenal stamping “AAL” on the left side above the pistol grip. “AA” should stand for Augusta Arsenal, but what does the “L” signify?


A. The “AAL” stamp on the stock of your M1A1 carbine does indicate that the firearm was overhauled at the Augusta Arsenal (Ga.) after World War II. The mixed parts on your carbine are consistent with an overhauled firearm. The “AA” indicates Augusta Arsenal, and the “L” is the initial of the particular ordnance inspector who supervised the rebuild. A number of permutations of this overhaul stamp may be encountered including, but not limited to, “AAN,” “AAM,” “AAF,” “AAG,” “AAA” and others. There are no known sources to identify the particular inspector represented by the last letter of the stamp. My book, Complete Guide to the M1 Garand and M1 Carbine, contains information on the rebuild stamps utilized by the various arsenal facilities, including Augusta Arsenal.
—Bruce N. Canfield


This “Questions & Answers” was featured in the September 2005 issue of American Rifleman. At time of publication, "Questions & Answers" was compiled by Staff, Ballistics Editor William C. Davis, Jr., and Contributing Editors: David Andrews, Hugh C. Birnbaum, Bruce N. Canfield, O. Reid Coffield, Charles Q. Cutshaw, Charles M. Fagg, Angus Laidlaw, Evan P. Marshall, Charles E. Petty, Robert B. Pomeranz, O.D., Jon R. Sundra, Jim Supica, A.W.F. Taylerson, John M. Taylor and John W. Treakle.

Latest

New Guns Gear Nraam 2025 F (1)
New Guns Gear Nraam 2025 F (1)

New Guns & Gear At The 2025 NRA Show

The 154th NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, held at the Georgia World Congress Center, April 24-27, was teeming with new guns and gear. Here's a taste of what you can see on the show floor.

Gun Of The Week: Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter

Welcome to American Rifleman’s Gun Of The Week. For this episode, we have a version of Smith & Wesson’s Model 1854 lever-action that’s specifically made for field use. Meet the Model 1854 Stealth Hunter.

The Armed Citizen® April 25, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

The Great FN Gun Giveaway At NRAAM 2025

Here’s a chance to win a custom, one-of-a-kind FN 545 Tactical pistol at the 154th NRA Annual Meeting & Exhibits, April 24-27, in Atlanta, Ga. No purchase necessary.

Training With Moving Targets

Most target shooters understand static or bullseye-type stationary targets quite well, but did you know that adding motion into your training routine will improve practical marksmanship and the skills necessary to conquer defensive situations?

USA Shooting Celebrates 30th Anniversary

USA Shooting marks a historic milestone in April as it celebrates 30 years as the national governing body for international shooting sports within the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.