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Garand Problems!!!

BigBarn
Well they locked the topic, so I'm starting where we left off. If any of you can read the last post of the first "Garand Problems" post, I listed the numbers and symbols there that this particular rifle has on it.
If there is any other information that you might need, just let me know where to look for it on this rifle, and I will send it along. I looked it over pretty good, and didn't see any more, but I don't know if there are hidden numbers or not.

Again, thank you guys for your great and timely replies!

BigBarn[8D]

"Respect the land, and it will respect you"
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Comments

6 comments

Date Votes
  • nmyers
    The topic was locked because, after about 10 responses, most questions have been answered. That seems to be the case with your first posting.

    The only additional information I can give you is that, based on the low serial #, it is probably a newly made (junk) receiver, not a rewelded USGI (junk) receiver. The parts you described are USGI parts, probably well used.

    I wouldn't shoot it without having it checked out by a gunsmith. But, your friend should now have enough information to make an informed decision as to what he should do with the rifle.

    Neal

    "You get what you pay for, sometimes less."
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  • GeOtm
    I have repaired and have had quite a few Garands sent me to be repaired. If the receiver has been welded;
    1) The ammo shot in it was to HOT for the rifle, check operating rod, etc.
    2) Never shoot a garand with a welded receiver - it's your eye, face head and life.

    Know of someone who was shooting a garand with a welded receiver, had major surgery to rebuild his right cheek bone and ear.

    Catch Ya Later - Have a good one....
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  • BigBarn
    GeOtm;
    How can I tell if the receiver has been welded, and what do I look for as far as the other parts are concerned? The guy that owns the rifle has shot it a bunch, boosting the bolt back into battery by bumping it with his hand. Sounds like this is not the best or safest thing too do!
    In looking at the rest of the parts in the receiver, it appears to be in great shape. I have taken it completely down, and have not seen anything worn, or cracked, or out of place.
    What do I look for as far as saftey is concerned?

    Thanks for your input.

    BigBarn[8D]

    BigBarn

    "Respect the land, and it will respect you"
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  • Rebel_James
    Never shoot any ammo with a heavier bullet than 150 grains in a Garand!


    MVC-031S.jpg

    "The Greatest Battle Implement Ever Devised!"
    -- Gen. George S. Patton
    referring to the M1 Garand
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  • nmyers
    Sigh.

    Bigbarn, it really doesn't matter whether your friend's rifle has a rewelded receiver or bad parts; based on what we know it must be presumed unsafe unless cleared by an experience gunsmith. I don't know about you & your friend, but I've got better things to do than lie on my back in the emergency room while a plastic surgeon removes pieces of steel from my face.

    But, since you insist.......strip the rifle & examine the middle of the receiver under a strong light with a magnifying glass. Look first at the slots in which the bolt lugs ride; any rough, deformed, or broken area indicates a reweld. Look at the sides of the receiver, inside & out, for any interruption in the milling marks; that could also indicate a reweld.

    It's impossible for someone not experienced with the M1 to tell if parts are "good" just by looking. The only problem likely to kill the shooter is excessive headspace, which can be caused by a bad receiver, improperly installed barrel, or bad bolt. Headspace can only be determined by use of a set of gauges.

    But, there may be a silver lining for your friend. If there are more rare parts in addition to the sight cover Mark identified, your friend may find that he can "part out" the rifle for more than it is worth as a rifle. Most small parts won't have numbers; I suggest that your friend buy a copy of "M1 Garand 1936 to 1957" by Poyer & Riesch.

    Neal
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  • BigBarn
    Thanks Neal,
    and sorry too be such a pain, I'm just trying to gather as much info about the Garand as I can. I'm learning also. I appreciate your input, and will definitely tell the owner to take it to a qualified Gun Smith and have it checked out before he shoots it any more.

    Thanks too all for your information about this great rifle!

    [8D]

    "Respect the land, and it will respect you"
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