If all you had

[tombogan03884]

 The numbers may be the same, and yes it has killed lots of people in combat, just like the 5.56, but the actual performance isn't that good, it would not penetrate plates that 9mm blew through in comparison tests I did back in the 90's (when I had a carbine)
9mm and .357 both went right through .060 cold rolled steel and .125 Aluminum. 30 Carb would not penetrate either one.

[r_w]

Guns don't kill people, bullets do...

I hear so much about how X gun sucked and not good for nuthin, it couldn't shoot my oil-soaked WWII surplus ammo I stored in my attic in FL for the last 30 years so any gun in that caliber is worthless.

Guns need to cycle and go bang when and where you want them.  It is your AMMO that decides how the target will react. 

Within reason of course, but you get the point.  rant off

[Krazy Okie]

The numbers may be the same, and yes it has killed lots of people in combat, just like the 5.56, but the actual performance isn't that good, it would not penetrate plates that 9mm blew through in comparison tests I did back in the 90's (when I had a carbine)
9mm and .357 both went right through .060 cold rolled steel and .125 Aluminum. 30 Carb would not penetrate either one.

We are talking about use of the M1 in a home defense roll, not out trying to bust through steel targets pr amored cars. 

[Badgersmilk]

Looking at the powder loads, velocities achieved, bullet diameter, mass / energy of the calibers.  My guess would be that the .30 fell short in your tests due to the particular type of bullets in the rounds tested.  Just saying "FMJ" doesn't begin to tell the whole story of a bullet.  Most people would be amazed at the research Russia did before releasing 7.62x39, testing and comparing lead densities, thickness of the brass cases, grades of brass used, where the weight of the lead in the bullet would be / how thick the brass was at the base, nose, and sides of the bullet.  The 7.62 looks like poop on paper.  But consistantly impresses in the real world because this research.  An EXCELLENT book IMO on this kind of stuff is "Modern Handloading".  Or "The Complete Book of Practical Handloading" isn't bad.

Again, bummer the .30 didn't pass those particular tests, but there are several manufactures out there for the caliber today, and all kinds of handloading supplies for it.

IMO...  The US did little to no research on bullet construction back then (so surplus ammo would still be crap).  History states clearly they were in a rush to get into production with it.  But a .30 Carbine with modern ammo would be no kind of disadvantage over anything else for the average citizen.

[Ulmus]

For home or even "neighborhood" defense  I think the .30 carbine is a great choice.

You're not going trying to fight off a whole army, just a group of 5 to 7 thugs who are more likely to leave and go after easier game.

[Sponsor]

[texcaliber]

For home or even "neighborhood" defense  I think the .30 carbine is a great choice.

You're not going trying to fight off a whole army, just a group of 5 to 7 thugs who are more likely to leave and go after easier game.

True, unless the local gang or gangs are the "army" terrorizing you and yours because your the only or even last "game" that has prepared and they would like what you have. Carbine may be adequate,true, but I rather a belt-feed, rocket-propelled, Track-driven, BMF'er for me and  mine.

If I had to chose a carbine it would be AK or AR. Simple on AK ammo being equivalent to 30-30, rather than the 357.  AR although  22caliber, just for argument sake, how many deer and people have been taken down with 22lr. and 22mags? and the 30carbine does not look as good.

Also last point, carbines are on the higher end of the price point and ammo while available doesn't have a good selection of Personal Defense options while also stocking up for your worst case hypothetical. Yes, in my opinion the are at least 2 different types of rounds in the same caliber. FMJ and  HP or AP or API or ROFAUS ...........

[tombogan03884]

I never said the M-1 sucked, it's a great handling little rifle but you need to know you won't be shooting through car doors or any other type of cover.

[bulldog75]

Good little rifle just know your limitations. You are not going to see me trying to shoot through stuff with a 5.56 either. Thats for the big boys. 

[texcaliber]

Mr. Pincus and Mr. Janich showed how well 556 chews through vehicles being used for cover. Even with frangible. Arguing how "poor" the 556 preforms then using the other side of face to bet your bacon on 30carbine. Not buying it. Now in comparison to 30cal battle rifles I am in total agreement with you. But to reiterate the fact that you can find AK's for less money and better performance of ammo than that of the 30carbine is the point i was trying to make. The reason for an AR is the incredible versatility of platform, along with better preforming ammo in 556, you can go from 22lr to 50BMG on the same lower in seconds and makes it the best pick for the "If all you had" one rifle.

NO WAY am I stating you are wrong for going with the carbine30, training and mindset are better than any bought tool, but make sure you look at every option of tools in price range is my point. Also enter twice when DRTV give away for carbine class comes along. 

[m25operator]

Nothing wrong with the rifle, until lately it has been ammo, now better expanding ammo is available, and it turns the tables. ball ammo in this caliber, historically is awful, but with moderns expanding ammo is going to work great.

Yes you could trade your M1 and get money back getting an AK47, but the M1 C is a great LITTLE gun.