M1A Four Digit Serial Number Devine TX Receiver

[MD66948]

Here is an M1A I just picked up. It is serial number 3769. The receiver was built by Mr Elmer Balance, original owner of Springfield Armory of Devine TX. The M1A Reciever was built into a comeplete Rifle in TX by the new owners of Springfield after they purchased the Springfield company from Mr Balance. It is built with all GI parts. The chromed lined H&R Barrel appears to be as new as do the rest of the parts. This was a Safe Queen from the time it was purchased new by the previous owner. This M1A is not marked Genesco, IL. I also picked up 10 GI M14 Magazines.

Here is some info that I located from Elmer Balance:

Mr. Balance has stated that about 4600 receivers were made while he owned the company in Devine, TX. Serial numbers under about 03800 should show stamping on the underside of the barrel between the gas cylinder and the bayonet lug with an address including Devine, TX.

Some receivers were included when the company was sold to Springfield Armory and were built into rifles by them.
These are not marked Devine, TX. These could be marked Genesco, IL.

If the serial number is after 04600 it is a Springfield Armory made receiver.

UPDATE: I spoke to Mr Ballance today and he confirmed to me that my M1A, S/N 3769 is one of his Devine TX's Receivers. For $50.00 he will send me a letter of Authenticity. I may just do that.