Going to field strip my M1 Garand for the first time. Advice? Tips? Supplies?

[AaronGee]

As for the final result:

Seems to have worked, but I'll have to take it to the range to be sure. I have a full clip of snap caps for testing. The first clip was a little difficult to get in. I got it in and cycled the action until the clip ejected. I did this three times and only had the problem of it not closing all the way once. Next week (likely Tuesday) is range day so I'll have to see how it works with live rounds.

I attached more photo's. On one of them I guess I did not get the clip down far enough, it would not close.

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[no4mk1t]

As for the final result:

Seems to have worked, but I'll have to take it to the range to be sure. I have a full clip of snap caps for testing. The first clip was a little difficult to get in. I got it in and cycled the action until the clip ejected. I did this three times and only had the problem of it not closing all the way once. Next week (likely Tuesday) is range day so I'll have to see how it works with live rounds.

I attached more photo's. On one of them I guess I did not get the clip down far enough, it would not close.

Make sure all the cartridges are fully seated in the clip. Do this by loading 7 rounds, and checking to ensure all are fully seated before inserting #8. A round that is not fully seated will catch on the receiver and prevent insertion of the clip.
Top round should be on the right. All arsenal ammo is loaded that way. Lefties will load top round on the left to make pressing the clip in easier left handed.

The M1 is designed to allow a full clip to be inserted and latch in place without the op rod closing on your thumb. A slight bump on the op rod handle will close the bolt. Watch some old USGI training vids on youtube to see what I mean.

[AaronGee]

So I went to the range today.

The original problem is fixed. But there is a new one now.

For the first three clips it went fine for the most part, with minor issues. The first clip did not eject, one round did not feed properly and another did not eject properly. From my understanding these are common occurrences and I don't have to worry.

During the 4th clip however.... the clip started to eject after four rounds (getting stuck when the bolt would close on it). I topped it up and put it back in. However, it would keep ejecting after two and sometimes four rounds.

[rcathey]

Relatively common problem.
It could be the clip latch spring. Before purchasing a replacement, you could take out your current spring and give it a stretch. If upon reinstalling the problem is solved, go out and buy a new one because this is definitely not a permanent fix.
There are other possible causes but this is by far the cheapest to eliminate. It's where I'd start.

[browningautorifle]

it would keep ejecting after two and sometimes four rounds.

I wouldn't mess with anything on the rifle. Stop using that clip for a few weeks and keep shooting. If the problem persists with other clips then start the puzzle of parts. If not then sell the clip to someone else...it may work find in his rifle. Many clips are as new and made in China, original markings and all. The can be the problem. Sort and mark them for disposal.

[rcathey]

Good thinking, Jim.
OP, go with what he said. Even cheaper than my suggestion!!!

[AaronGee]

Thanks Jim, I'm going to test out all my clips next range day. I honestly can't remember how many I tried thT day (I think two).

Today I tested all my clips with snap caps. I could not replicate the problem. Although I think on the day of the problem the clip latch spring may of been stuck down, I was not paying much attention to that then.

I sorted my clips into Good/Bad. I noticed some would not feed, others worked flawlessly. It seems the clips that are sort of 'bent in' have problems. Wider ones are okay. I hope you can visualize. I'll test out the good ones and see if there is any premature ejecting. And also buy a extra Clip Latch Spring, since they're only $5, good to have one around.

[browningautorifle]

buy a extra Clip Latch Spring, since they're only $5, good to have one around.

I'll bet you don't go through it in two lifetimes. They got weak after being left loaded for weeks on end during action...you just won't put the same stresses on it. Sort your clips and keep the good ones. Sell the others on CGN.

[AFJon]

Take a look at the attached picture. Depending on the clip manufacture and ammo could be causing the spread enbloc