Valuation Guides Machine Guns M3A1 'Grease Gun'
Published: May 26, 2025 | Updated: July 14, 2026
How Much is My M3A1 'Grease Gun' Worth?
The M3A1 was an improved version of the original M3 'Grease Gun,' with simplified parts and better reliability in field conditions.
Curious about how much your M3A1 'Grease Gun' sub machine gun is worth? Whether you’re looking to sell or simply understand current pricing, we’ll help you assess the market value of your firearm.
About the M3A1 'Grease Gun'
The M3A1 was a streamlined redesign of the M3, introduced in 1944. It replaced the crank-style charging handle with a finger slot and widened the ejection port. Despite its minimalistic design, it remained in service for decades due to its ease of manufacture and performance in harsh conditions.
Origin
United States
Manufacturer
Guide Lamp (GM), Ithaca Gun Company, Medea Corp
Caliber
.45 ACP
Rate of Fire
450 rounds/min
Notable Uses
WWII (late), Korea, Vietnam, U.S. tank crews through the 1990s
M3A1 'Grease Gun' Machine Gun Values & Variants
Transferable M3A1 'Grease Gun' sub machine guns are highly sought after by NFA collectors and enthusiasts. Value is influenced by originality, condition, variant type and any unique historical markings. Most examples on the market range from $25,000 to $35,000, depending on configuration and provenance.
Common Variants & Value Ranges
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M3A1 (Guide Lamp, Ithaca)
Estimated Value: $25,000 – $35,000
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M3A1 (Medea Corp)
Estimated Value: $25,000 – $35,000
Market values reviewed by Chris Wing, Lead Firearms Valuation Specialist
M3A1 Grease Gun - Factors That Affect Market Value
Factors That Influence M3A1 'Grease Gun' Values
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Originality:
Transferable M3A1 'Grease Gun's with original receivers, parts, and factory markings typically command higher prices due to their authenticity and appeal to collectors.
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Condition:
Clean, well-maintained M3A1 'Grease Gun' machine guns in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition will sell for significantly more than worn or modified examples.
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Historical Markings / Provenance:
If there are markings or provenance that link your M3A1 'Grease Gun' to a specific military unit, wartime service, or historical event - collector interest and market value can greatly increase.
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Restoration:
Whether your M3A1 'Grease Gun' has been refinished, restored or modified will significantly affect pricing. Original finishes are typically more desirable.
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Transfer Status:
Transferrable M3A1 'Grease Gun's will hold a considerably higher value than their pre-86 or post-86 counterparts.
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Receiver Type & Build Origin:
M3A1 'Grease Gun's built on original military receivers and parts are worth more than their post-war commercial counterparts, rewelds or REWATS.
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About Us
Our mission is to make the process of selling your firearm as easy and convenient as possible.
Selling a firearm can be time-consuming and legally complex, especially for machine guns. At webuyguns.com, we streamline the process by purchasing directly from you, saving you time and ensuring a legally compliant, hassle-free transaction. With decades of experience, we provide fair market evaluations and encourage you to compare our offers locally to see the value we bring.
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Our process
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Step 1
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Tell us what you have
Fill out a short form and upload a few photos. This helps us identify what you have.
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Step 2
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We verify your make & model
We review your information and images to assess the condition and value of your firearm.
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Step 3
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We make an offer
We’ll provide an offer on your firearm and, if accepted, provide a shipping label.
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Frequently asked questions
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Reach out to our customer support team.
- How much is a transferable M3 Grease Gun worth in 2026?
- In the current 2026 market, transferable M3A1 'Grease Gun' values generally range from $25,000 to $35,000 depending on originality, correct configuration, condition and included magazines or accessories.
- What factors most affect the value of an M3 Grease Gun?
- Originality, correct configuration and condition drive pricing differences. Matching parts, correct markings and strong mechanical condition generally support higher values, especially with period-correct magazines and accessories.
- Do magazines and accessories affect M3 pricing?
- Yes. Correct magazines and period-correct accessories can increase value and make the package more desirable. Missing, mismatched or reproduction items may change how the market prices the overall setup.
- Do you buy M3 Grease Gun machine guns?
- Yes. WeBuyGuns.com buys transferable machine guns nationwide. Share photos of markings, overall condition and any paperwork details and we can provide a current value range and purchase offer with clear next steps.
- Can I sell an M3 Grease Gun I inherited?
- Yes, if it is legally transferable. Eligibility depends on registration history and paperwork, not just the model. We can help you understand what you have and outline the compliant path to sell.