Question about replacing and operating rod in a M1 Garand

I have a recent production Springfield M1 Garand. I am purchasing spare parts for it and I recently purchased a spare operating rod from Fulton Armory. It is a Breda operating rod, which I understand was a company that made M1's in Italy post WW 2. It contacts the barrel near the receiver (at the location where the barrel is to be greased lightly) and binds slightly. My question is this: Is this just a question of polishing the op rod at this point to alleviate the binding, or is more complex fitting involved? Is there any other fitting required? I am doing as much research as possible about the Garand and its operation and any input will be greatly appreciated.

IIRC the highest paid job on the M1 production line was operating rod bending. If it binds it's likely "tweaked". I'd contact Fulton Armory and discuss getting a replacement.

Thanks jmoore, I contacted Fulton and I am waiting for their reply.

I hope it all works out w/o further dramas! Do please keep us informed.

I seem to recall that someone had a gage to check op rod geometry, but I've plumb forgotten who...:madsmile:

It was SOP for the Air Force shop to polish the underside of the barrel and the op rod saddle in their Lackland match guns.

Thanks Bob and Jmoore: I spoke to a tech at Fultons and he suggested polishing the point where it binds. If that does not do the trick, he said the rod my need to be re-bent and fitted to my rifle. So both you guys had great suggestions for me! Thanks again, great site!

Mike Stacey
this is the only person i know of that will fix your op rod
very fair and reasonable prices
Columbus Machine Works, Inc. - Custom Machining - Machine Shop Services

Okay, thanks Ballbags!