AGI Armorer’s Course for M1/M2 Carbines

Master Gunsmith Bob Dunlap is a renowned expert on firearms. He has been a warranty station for most manufacturers, both large and small. Learn about the history of this firearm and why it was so popular with the United States Military. The design and function of all the parts are explained in detail, in typical AGI fashion.

This course will enable you to understand the differences and similarities between the M1 (semi auto) and the M2 (selective or full auto fire) versions of the gun. Extreme close ups of the various parts allow the viewer to see the function and movement of the parts as they work in the gun. The fact that so many people own this firearm makes this course extremely valuable. If you want the quick course on how to get this .30 caliber carbine apart, back together, and operating as intended, then this course is for you (if you want the long course, look into our basic 108 hour Professional Gunsmith Course.)

Among the items covered are:

History

• Brief history of the firearms designer, Carbine Williams
• Similarities to the M1 Garand are discussed
• U.S. military usage and history
• Learn about the various models and variations of this weapon
• Over 7 million manufactured
• This firearm is still being manufactured by several different companies
• Intended use for as an alternative for the larger M1 Garand and smaller .45 caliber 1911 pistol

Design & Function

• Learn how the gun operates and understand the firing sequence
• The gas system and its operation is thoroughly explained and demonstrated
• Clearly see how the piston in the gas system functions
• Extreme close ups of the cam that rotates the bolt are shown and its function explained
• See how the action spring works and how the hammer is cocked
• Safety features are thoroughly explained and shown
• Extractor and ejector identified and their function explained
• Clear views of the sear and fire control system
• See how the magazine and catch operates
• Be able to understand the similarities and differences in the semi and full auto versions of this weapon
• How the trip lever and sear functions in full auto
• Understand how the position of the magazine lips affect the feeding of the cartridges into the chamber
• Learn how the harmonics of the gun affect the cycling in full auto mode

Disassembly

• How to field strip the gun for cleaning and maintenance
• Learn how to completely disassemble the M1 and M2 carbine
• Close up of various parts and their function are further discussed
• How to take out the extractor and ejector without launching parts into orbit
• See how the firing pin is retained in the bolt
• Understand why the rear sight is only taken out when you have to, as it can easily be damaged
• Learn about the two and three pronged piston nuts and the special military tool that is used to take the nut off
• The correct sequence and techniques for taking apart the trigger housing are shown and explained
• Caution is given when taking out the magazine catch and safety so that you will not lose parts, or have to chase them

Cleaning & Lubrication

• AGI cleaning & lubrication methods shown, along with the reasons for their use
• The parts that get the dirtiest are identified
• How to clean the bore is explained
• After cleaning, dry with air gun, or in the oven on Warm ~185-200 degrees (metal parts ONLY)
• Bob discusses what he uses for lubrication and why it works the best

Reassembly & Troubleshooting

• The correct order of parts for reassembly is given so that you do not have any parts left over
• Which tools are used for an easy reassembly of the gun
• Bob discusses which parts wear quickest and specifies certain areas to examine closely
• How to test the extractor with a cartridge to make sure it has a slightly positive angle
• Correct position of the trigger spring is shown as well as a special tool that is used to get it in place
• The correct relationship between the hammer and sear is explained to prevent hammer follow down and to ensure safe operation
• The importance of good bedding in the stock for the recoil lug is discussed
• Final assembly

Accessories

• Plastic stocks are shown and discussed
• Various hand guards are shown
• Recoil pads and flash hiders that are available
• High capacity magazines

If you noticed how often the terms “explanation” and “demonstration” are used, you may be getting some idea of why this course is necessary for any M1/M2 Carbine owner, or someone who intends to be.