Hi,

 

USM4 Case with the correct  markings but only 5 grooves on the handle.
Is it OK? 

 

 

Giles- This is a first! Have never seen a 5 groove handled M4. Initially CASE did make square cut grooved leather handles, but went to a shallow "V" shaped 6 groove handle. It's difficult to tell if it was a rework.  CASE did make some 5 grooved M3s, this could be what the groove cutter decided to do that day.  Who knows?  Sure glad you showed it. Let's see what others have for input.  Thanks!  SKIP

Yes like Skip I have no answers to your question and will be following this thread myself.  Just wanted to let you know we hear you.

Although the CASE M4 did not use a starburst peen, the somewhat butchered peen suggests that the bayonet was re-handled.

Marv

Thanks for your contributions, I'm also thinking of a rework, the Flaming Bomb is present.
CASE produced M3 with 5 grooves but tighter.

 

Another mystery...

Gilles

I agree with Misfit 45.  I think it was reworked.