Just shot my Garand for the 1st time...

[Spotteddog]

I thought that used to be part of the Constitution test Bat?
The Old Man would have torn up a diploma not showing that proficiency!

 

[m1gunner]

Google "mexican match" to see how to make cheap hunting ammo from ball ammo. This way you know it is loaded to the correct pressure curve for the Garand.

 

[oldRoger]

As I pass through gun shows I frequently see people trying to close the action of an M1 that they are inspecting. Naturally I sort of idle around waiting for the inevitable. As the guy stands there with his left thumb on the follower and holding the action open with Right Hand, his legs and teeth, perspiration breaks out and a funny look develops on his face. It is at that point that I offer to help.
They know how to "text", I know how to avoid M1 thumb.

 

[PALADIN85020]

I first handled an M1 in 1953 as a freshman in Jr. ROTC. As a member of the rifle team in 1955, I shot one extensively. One soon learns the correct way to close the action and avoid the dreaded "M1 thumb!" The recoil of the M1 is surprisingly soft, not only due to its 9.5 pound weight, but also to the semiautomatic action. If you've ever fired a 1903 Springfield bolt action, you will really appreciate the difference. It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that "ching!" The story is told that enemy soldiers used to listen for that distinctive sound, which told them that a U.S. troop was out of ammo and probably reloading. This would cause the enemy to pop up and shoot. Our soldiers learned the trick of bouncing an empty clip off the operating rod handle to make that noise while they still had a full clip in the rifle. When the enemy popped up, zappo! Surprise!

By the way, an article I wrote on the Garand is appearing in the center of the current issue (September '09) of Dillon's Blue Press catalog/magazine. You can order a free subscription by calling 1-800-223-4570.

Here's mine, made in 1941 at Springfield Armory. It bears British proofs on the barrel. A photo of it appears in the article referenced. Bought it in 1969 - great rifle, and one I treasure.

 

[alde]

I
By the way, an article I wrote on the Garand is appearing in the center of the current issue (September '09) of Dillon's Blue Press catalog/magazine. You can order a free subscription by calling 1-800-223-4570.

I enjoyed the article. Glade to see it was writen by one of our own. Great cover too.

 

[m1gunner]

I knew someone would mention M1-Thumb.

1. You don't get it loading a full clip.

2. You get it messing with an empty rifle.

3. Having the bolt held open by the follower instead of the bolt catch is probably the best way to get it.

For folks new to this fine rifle, no need to fear it. If possible, have an experienced Garandaholic show you how to avoid this. It takes only a few seconds, and the lesson will be remembered the rest of your life.

 

[K.38]

"By the way, an article I wrote on the Garand is appearing in the center of the current issue (September '09) of Dillon's Blue Press catalog/magazine." Sir, I'm sure you wrote a fine article but I haven't been able to get past the cover.

Garands are wonderful rifles. I have a pre-war Winchester made in June of 41. It is one of the first 8000 made. I got that one from the DCM about 20 years ago.