The M1 rifle is a gas operated semiautomatic rifle with an eight
round clip.
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I have published a book on M1 Carbine production dates; here are the serial numbers for M1-Carbines produced by Rock-Ola:
1,662,520 - 1,762,519: November 1942 through November 1943
4,532,100 - 4,632,099: November 1943 through March 1944
6,071,189 - 6,099,668: March through April 1944
6,199,689 - 6,219,688: April 1944
If you are looking for an M1-Carbine serial number that was produced by another company, you can either post another question and include the name of the other company or you can visit the link named "M1 Carbine manufacture dates and serial numbers" under "Sources and related links" at the bottom of this answer.
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The M1 Garand shoots the 30 ot 6, so if you want stopping power
its better. The SKS uses the 7.62x39, also has great stopping
power, but the SKS is way cheaper. Personally i like the SKS
better.