M1 barrel markings

[jjones]

I am looking at an m1 a guy has for sale, and the barrel just doesn't look right to me. There are no markings on the barrel in the normal places. At the muzzle end between the gas cylinder rings it is marked UM. Anyone know what that means? The barrel is also heavier under the rear handguard than normal.

Thanks
Joe

[Big Ben]

Commercial replacement?

[jjones]

That is what I am thinking, but who made it? What does UM mean?

[paid4c4]

I know, I know UM=Unknown Manufacturer! Could I be a gunsmith or what!
Bill

[Big Ben]

You know, seems I remember something called an Ultra Match barrel that was used by a Garand-smith a while back, maybe in the '80's If your is heavier than normal profile, perhaps you have one.

[timshufflin]

Definitely not GI.

[Dave]

If the price is right it could be a "sleeper" . Until you fire it you never know how good a barrel is/can be. Obviously if your looking for a rifle to restore and want an original barrel then its not for you, but if you want a shooter you'll often find the commercial replacement barrels are more accurate than most USGI barrels are.

[jjones]

Well, I had to buy a pair of rifles to get the M1, but I got it. It has alittle rust, but that is coming off pretty good. It had a B Square scope mount on it, that is coming off. As soon as I figure out how to post pics, I will