[student of history]

Hi Guys,

I recently picked up an EmcF cartouched stock for my Garand but it's also got a BA-B arsenal stamp. Does anyone have any idea what the BA-B stamp means? Also, which arsenal was it? I'd really appreciate any info that you guys could provide.

Thanks for everyone's time!

 

[gospodin]

Student,
"BA" is Benicia Arsenal in California. The letter "B" following was the identifier of the inspector at Benicia. FYI, Benicia Arsenal started up in 1851 and closed down in 1963.

 

[geologyjohn]

Student, the BA cartouche indicates that your stock was on a rifle that underwent a rebuild/repairs here at the Benicia Arsenal, probably in the late 1940's or early 1950's. I help run the museum in the Benicia Arsenal, located in one of the old Arsenal Buildings (Bldg #9, dated 1854). Geologyjohn

 

[student of history]

That's really cool! Thanks a lot for the info guys! I saw that member "new cal shooter" is specifically looking to purchase a BA stamped stock. In his post he says that he'd like to donate it to the museum so if anyone knows where I can get another authentic EMcF stock for my 42' Garand I'd like to help him out!

 

[Rick the Librarian2]

I like your motives, but finding a EMcF stock won't be easy! You'll need deep pockets!

 

[Mike D]

My first, and so far only, M1 purchase was about 13 years ago. 1.66 mil SA. Blue Sky import, sewer pit barrel '53. $650. Not a great deal, I know. It was my second milsurp purchase, and I didn't know squat.

No big deal, I figured I would "restore" it. Bought a EMcF stock off of Ebay. Honestly can't remember the price, maybe $200-250. Stamp are worn, but there.

Through the years I slowly replaced parts, and found a correctly dated barrel (still not installed). A few years ago, I got to lookin at it, and realized the buttplate was overhanging in some spots. Then it dawned on me that someone got carried away with the sander! :mad

Lots of money spent on a parts rifle. I gained alot of knowledge on that parts gun, though!

 

[student of history]

I'm kind of in the process of doing exactly what you just described. Being located in Canada, it's extremely difficult to find a complete WWII USGI rifle that's never been touched/arsenaled so you've basically just gotta get whatever you can and then go from there. Mine was in really nice shape, with no pitting or rust but it had a post war barrel, rear sights, bolt, and gas cylinder. I've slowly but surely been restoring it. I'm almost finished, all I've got to do is find a first pattern gas plug.

You're right, it is expensive, but in the long run I think it's worth the effort... it's been a really fun/rewarding experience and you learn a lot about the rifle. Anyways though, if I can help him out I will...because he's doing it for a good cause. I just need to be sure I can get another correct stock.