Volunteer Enterprises Commando Mark III Value Guide

The Volunteer Enterprises Commando Mark III is a distinctive semi-automatic carbine from the 1970s designed to emulate the iconic silhouette of the Thompson submachine gun. Produced in the United States, this steel and wood firearm remains a popular collectible for those seeking the aesthetic of a vintage military weapon in a civilian-legal .45 ACP platform.

What affects the value of Volunteer Enterprises Commando Mark III?

• Overall condition of the blued steel finish and the integrity of the wooden furniture significantly impact the $800-$1,200 price range.
• Mechanical functionality and the presence of original sights or factory-issued magazines can increase collector interest.
• The specific variant and production era, as earlier Mark III models are often more sought after than later iterations.
• Bore condition and rifling clarity are essential for buyers looking for a functional recreational shooter rather than a display piece.

How to Identify Volunteer Enterprises Commando Mark III?

• Check the receiver for the 'Volunteer Enterprises Inc. Knoxville, TN' stamping to confirm the manufacturer.
• Verify the presence of the characteristic vertical or horizontal wooden foregrip and fixed wooden buttstock.
• Ensure the barrel length meets the 16-inch legal requirement for carbines, as these were designed to avoid NFA restrictions.
• Inspect the magazine well for compatibility with standard M3 'Grease Gun' style magazines often used with this model.

History of Volunteer Enterprises Commando Mark III

The Volunteer Enterprises Commando Mark III was part of a series of firearms produced in the 1970s, attempting to capitalize on the iconic look of the Thompson submachine gun. These carbines offered a civilian-legal alternative, providing the aesthetics of a military weapon without the fully automatic capabilities. They were popular for recreational shooting and as collectors' items for those who admired the Thompson's design.