7/20/18 - This is a unique, perhaps "one of a kind" early, Winchester M-1 Carbine. Most likely experimental or tool room sample. The Winchester logo and serial # 0512 is on the receiver. The barrel is Marlin marked, with P proof - no evidence of bayo lug. It has S marked rear site that has NOT been staked. The trigger assembly is unmarked. It has a Winchester hammer, and checkered push button safety, with a later 'M' marked magazine release. The stock is un-sanded and W (Winchester) marked underneath, and the handguard is also W marked. Inside the sling well is a marking of some type but not legible. The stock has no inspection or military cartouche which supports the theory that it was an early factory sample - never issued. Some parts are in the white, with others are parkerized. The magazine is IU marked and notably not blued but rather parkarized (experimental?). Early Type 1 front barrel band. High wood stock, but not "I" cut for the sling. Bore is shiny with strong rifling, but minor frost toward the muzzle. As already stated, a truly unique piece for the advanced collector.