Universal M1 Carbine

Question
My Dad just gave me his Universal M1 carbine.It jams about every 5 or so shots.I have heard they are not very good guns.Is there anything I can have done to it to make it more reliable?Also how can I tell what year it was made.Thank-you in advance for you input,bye Keith.

Answer
Hi Keith,

The reason you are probably hearing that these "are not very good guns" is due to relatively low price and equal workmanship. As they say, "you get what you pay for".

As for it jamming about every five or so shot, it could be a number of things. As for what to do about it, I'd need to inspect and/or shoot the rifle to have a better idea what it is (or in this case - is not) doing. Often times you can have a jamming problem with one type of ammo while still others function flawlessly.

If you really want to pursue fixing the problem I would suggest that you take it to a local gunsmith for inspection. Someone who can test fire and/or examine it would be in a much better position to diagnose the problem.

I have no manufacture records concerning build dates for Universal - sorry.

Thanks for the question Keith.
Sid Lark