14 July 2014

A Question for M1 Garand Owners

We're all familiar with "M1 thumb" and strive mightily to avoid it.

Query: when I insert an eight-round clip (the only size I have, at present), the bolt doesn't close. It catches the first round, but only moves forward about a quarter-inch.

Once I nudge it, it still closes with the familiar snap and then functions flawlessly.

Is it my technique? Not pushing the clip down with sufficient force? Not enough grease on the edges of the bolt cover?

Anyone have any thoughts on the matter?

10 comments:

Keads said...

1. Burs or insufficient radius on operating rod or operating rod catch.

2. Bullet guide is too high at the accelerator bearing point.

Or, just leave it. No thumb problems =)

Rev. Paul said...

Thank you, Kelly.

Well Seasoned Fool said...

Fifty year old memory, but I never got a "thumb" or a misfeed. Using the side of your hand on the operating handle, push hard as far back as the handle will go and hold. Somewhat akin to a weak grip on a semi automatic pistol. You want to be firm.

Rev. Paul said...

WSF - that's my thought: that I'm being too tentative about the clip insertion, etc.

Keads said...

Oh, make no mistake, the M1 loves being handled "roughly and with authority." I'm just trying to show off my new CMP super powers =).

Murphy's Law said...

I've always thought that it was just fine for the bolt to hand back when the clip is inserted. I'd rather drive it home with the heel of my hand than have it slam prematurely and catch my thumb. But I've never actually gotten "M-1 Thumb" before, though I did get "M-14 finger" once, which is just as bad, only in .308.

Murphy's Law said...

hang, not hand.

Rev. Paul said...

Kelly, I'm still a little jealous about the class you attended - and so I'm listening closely when thou speakest. :)

ML, it doesn't seem to affect anything else, so I'm not overly concerned. But I still haven't been as forceful with it as I see WWII vets be, when they're handed one. So now I'll emulate them.

Sunnybrook Farm said...

Since it feeds properly for the next 7 rounds, I would think that it must be something catching when the bolt is at a dead stop, as in wear, mine is 71 years old and needs a nudge now and then.

Rev. Paul said...

SF, I believe you're right. Thank you.