12-142 Garand Picture of the Day

[Joe W]

Marines of the 8 th Marine Regiment, 2nd Mar Div, Training exercise at Vieques Island P.R. 1957

Information

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[Sarge1998]

BAR man has a web sling and late model gas regulator, not sure why the bi-pod appears that its locked in the upper position and not 180 degrees down. Most pictures of WWII BAR men have the front swivel up close to the forend stock.

[Bill Hollinger]

I've seen some strange modifications done by Marines.

[Sarge1998]

I think I figured it out, with the web sling adjusted to carry on the shoulder, the bi-pod legs would have a tendency to smack your helmet in the normal folded position. With the legs secured 180 for a march/hike, it would prevent being tapped repeatedly in the head. A man who has to carry that beast for his living doesn't do something w/o reason. You can see another BAR in the extreme right of the photo, it's bi-pod is extended but also 180, he was either getting ready to lock it in place or return it to normal position. I hope that makes sense to someone other than me!

[Joe W]

You got it Sarge. The feet of the bi-pod would get you right in the sholder blade.