question

[stockerphil]

What has to be done to fire blanks in the Garand, 3 rounds for 21 gun salute? Is there a recommended source of blank rounds?

Information

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[Bob Seijas]

Yes, almost as interesting as an anecdote from a previous article by Jim in which a gas cylinder flew off and hit the funeral car 50' away Jim voluntarily services M1's for American Legion posts, has written several GCA articles on what he has found and problems to look for if you help a post. This one also debunks the commonly-held belief that you can tell the difference between blanks (safe) and grenade launchers (not safe) by the number of crimps.

[browningautorifle]

you can tell the difference between blanks (safe) and grenade launchers (not safe)

A definite difference...and not interchangeable as I found out in basic training...

[stockerphil]

Thanks Bob, I will ask my brother to get the article.

[Bob Seijas]

As to where to get them, Jim Johannes advises Legion posts to use only new ammunition provided by the US Army Joint Munitions Command at Rock Island. I think they provide it to posts free on request or at least at low cost. Maybe your local post has some or could get you some for a small donation. You don't need much, they are usually corrosive and really dirty up the rifle.

[stockerphil]

Thanks bob, I'll check with my brother and find out what they have and pass on your recommendation for good ammo.

[RCS]

Here is one example for the M1 Rifle, there are other variations. Attachment 97447Attachment 97448Attachment 97449

[Bob Seijas]

The GCA Journal being mailed this week has a terrific article by Jim Johannes on shooting blanks safely... several important tips made to avoid this:
Attachment 97450

[browningautorifle]

shooting blanks safely.

Would be a crowd pleaser at an event...

[stockerphil]

Thanks Bob, can I access the article on the web even tho I'm not a member of GCA? I've done some google research after reding this and sure don't want anything like this to happen to me. So I'd ;like to read Jim's article.