M1 Garand Education and fun - PICS ADDED

Mark G · March 15, 2019 08:08

About 9 years ago I purchased a service grade M1 Garand from the CMP. I had always wanted one and finally bit the bullet. Back then it took about 3 months to get one and they were $575.00 plus shipping. When it arrived I fawned over it, bought a couple spam cans of ammo, a buttstock cleaning kit, bayonet and scabbard and put it in the safe for later. It is a post war Springfield. The wood was beautiful and the metal was in great shape. I was hesitant to shoot it because it looked so nice.

Fast Forward to about a month ago when I noticed that my local gun range had a "high power" night that you could bring anything to. I decided that now would be the time. I figured that the unit needed a good going over so I watched a series of videos from Brownells on the disassembly, cleaning, lubrication and re-assembly of the gun. I purchased a can of Lubriplate as this was the original grease that the army used and set about the task at hand. I was amazed at the simplicity/complexity of the weapon. I was able to strip, lube, re-assemble and function test in just a couple of hours. I already had the enbloc clips from my spam can purchase but I purchased some S&B M1 30-06 ammo for the range. Last night everything came together and I went to the range.

First thing that I learned was that the bullet tips absolutely had to be equal and set in the clip. I had a clip that had a bullet that was a little proud and the clip was not going in the gun. Small correction and it popped right in. I tested the safety and the gun would not fire. Safety off and BANG! There was less recoil than I figured. The only 30-06 that I had previously shot were bolt action. I was at 25 yards (max distance at the indoor range) and my eyes aren't what they used to be so I lined up the sights on the blob that was waaaaaaayyyyy down there. Grouping were good considering this was the first time out with it. It was a silhouette target and all shots were kill shots. Nothing out of the 8 ring with some purposeful head shots thrown in.

Second thing that I learned was a Garand can attract some attention. Especially when the last round is fired and the clip ejects. I guess this is something that many shooters have not experienced. The shells were consistent with their landing and the clips were right next to my feet so I was able to retrieve them. I only put 4 clips thru but I had an incredible time. I have alot of respect for the soldiers who carried these day in and out into battle. Not light by any means but I'm sure they never felt under gunned.

I would absolutely recommend getting a Garand while you still can and shoot it like its supposed to be shot. My M1 Carbine has been my favorite for years and I did take it and shoot that as well but the Garand now has a special place in my heart. What an amazing piece of machinery.

M1 Garand Education and fun - PICS ADDED

Comments

Recent Activity