The .30 Carbine (aka .30 M-1 Carbine) was developed by Winchester in the 1930s and was officially adopted by the U.S. Ordinance Department in 1941 and was almost immediately pressed into action with U.S.’s involvement in World War II that officially began in December 1941.

Although the .30 Carbine was designed for light carbines, it was a natural for revolvers and single-shot pistols in which it produced magnum type velocities. Gunsmiths at the time began converting Colt Single Action Army revolvers and others to this caliber. In 1968, Bill Ruger began Chambering the Blackhawk revolver for .30 Carbine, and Thompson/Center also offered its Contender single-shot pistol. Surplus ammunition was readily available at bargain prices, but that supply has long since dried up. Today handloaders can assemble loads at a fraction of the cost of new commercially produced ammunition.

Most dies sets are made of steel., which requires applying case lube to the full-length size. It is recommended to obtain carbide dies from RCBS or Lee Precision that eliminate the need for case lube, with the Lee die removing the bulge that often appears just forward of the case head when cases have been fired in M1 Carbines.

Remington cases were used to develop the accompanying data. Military cases are of thicker construction and have less powder capacity than most commercial cases, so powder chargers may need to be reduced slightly if they are used. It is noteworthy to mention that .30 Carbine cases have been rather difficult to obtain for several years; however, Starline is now offering new brass available factory direct by calling (800)280-6660.

In spite of the accompanying data being fired in a single-shot pistol, small rifle primers are suggested.

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