Clip latch/clip latch spring question...

[kfields]

I've had some occasional 7th round ejections and figured I would swap out the clip latch spring to see if that solved my problem. While I had the clip latch out, I took some pictures of it. Does it look worn to you to the point that it needs replacement or is it my imagination? Thanks!

Kim

Information

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[browningautorifle]

No, it doesn't look TOO worn but looks can be deceiving. There are at least three threads in recent history in the M1 section that have multiple remedies for your problem. There are other possible faults and remedies.

[kfields]

Thanks Jim,

I acquired this Garand in 2001 and it had problems with firing reliably from the very beginning. It isn't one I shot regularly due to the consistency issue, maybe 200 rounds in 9 years (56 in the last week) but that might be a stretch. Family, work, a new house, have taken priority over the years. Now that I'm older, I'm finding more time for hobbys...like playing around with this rifle! It's an October 1942 receiver mated to an October 1942 barrel with the correct stock and uncut oprod so I can see myself hanging on to it.
I've stuck to relatively inexpensive fixes over the years: spring replacements, bullet guide and other stuff. I had even had the uncut oprod business end (that fits in the cylinder) put back into spec. I've gotten rid of all my Chinese made enbloc clips and now only shoot with good condition American made enbloc clips and ammunition. What I think ultimately solved most of my problems was solving the 'lockup' problem. I added a bit of loose gasket material to the mating point between the stock and trigger assembly and that solved 97% percent of my problem.
Maybe at this point and considering I've replaced the clip latch spring, I'll clean and lubricate everything and take it back out for another trial.

Thanks for your response!

Kim

[DaveN]

I don't know much about your problem but, I have learned that I would never shoot with an uncut op rod. there's a reason they cut them, they are dangerous ! Also very collectible ($$$$) to those who don't shoot them. I would at least get a cut oprod for shooting just to be on the safe side. I've read a lot on this site about it.

[Kirk]

Chances are is that replacing the spring will cure the problem. Orion 7 has the best springs made - replace your op rod spring while you are at it. Your Op rod spring may also be from 1942 and they do wear out. The op rod spring is the only thing that prevents the bolt from hitting the heel of the receiver; a weak or worn op rod spring allows the bolt to hit so hard that it can crack the heel & destroy the receiver. The Army replaced op rod springs every 5000 rounds when the rifle was in service. The Orion 7 op rod springs are the best made & cheap, about $10. The Orion 7 website is Orion 7 Enterprises Inc.

[Mike D]

Uncut op rods are dangerous? C'mon Dave, do some more reading!

[browningautorifle]

That's what I thought, but maybe if Dave takes a trip into Bill Rica's Myth page it will be clear for him. I shoot my uncut op rod without fear. Mind you the rest of the gun matches it so why would it be dangerous?