disassembling M1 bolt: Need a fixture or not?

[Bayou]

I have a new extractor spring I like to install in the bolt. The M1 shop manual shows a fixture (which I don't have) being used to do this job. Just wondering is the fixture absolutely necessary? Has anyone rigged something up using a small vise that works? The shop manual also shows a fixture for compressing the hammer spring but I was able to use a vise and a couple pieces of wood to reassemble the trigger group.

Information

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[RCS]

You can use the M10 tool by inserting it in the chamber of your rifle to remove any parts of the bolt while it is still in the rifle. As an armorer, I used this tool quite alot on M1 rifles.

[Devil Dog]

I drilled a 1/2" hole about 2" deep into the side (edge) of my work bench. I insert an '06 case that had 1/2 it's rim ground off. Wrap a rag around the back of the bolt and depress the ejector by pushing the bolt against the case. Once the ejector is depressed, pry the extractor with a screwdriver. The extractor should be lined up with the ground area of the case. You can re-assemble the same way.

[Maury Krupp]

You don't need a Bolt Tool.

An M3 or M10 Combo Tool or a screwdriver to pry out the extractor and something to push in the ejector (empty case, dowel rod, finishing nail driven into your workbench, etc) are all you really need.

Two tips:

-Disassemble inside a big plastic bag in case parts go flying

-Don't try to position the ejector perfectly for reassembly. Have the cutout slightly at an angle so the extractor shaft cams it into position

Reassembling the Trigger Group only requires average hand strength and practice.

The illustrated instructions at the "Garand Tech Info" link on the CMP site are pretty good.

Maury

[Danny]

I think that I'll get the bolt assembly tool, but I'll have to assemble parts freshly parkerized. If it weren't for that, I wouldn't probably get one. Most of the other methods not using the tool work pretty well, they are just not as simple or as quick as the tool, but they are cheaper.

Danny

[Bill Hollinger]

I agree, no tool needed. Not like a carbine bolt! I don't use one for that either but I'm starting to think I should. My eyes ain't so good anymore nor are my fingers

[Tom Bowers]

I bought the tool from the CMP several years ago and never regretted the investment. As others have said you can take the bolt apart with other tools, but you must really watch for flying springs. I used a M3 once just to try it once and only once. It's just too easy with the tool. HTH

[0311Shooter]

The M-14 Combination tool is the ideal thing to use. It's larger than the Garand tool, can get plenty of leverage. Not sure of the proper nomenclature.

For the Garand, nothing else is needed.

For the Carbine - YIKES!!!! Get a Bolt Tool.

[Capt Quahog]

I dun't need no stinking fixture! Used a piece of heavy duty scotch packing tape to hold the gizmo part with spring in place so it didn't fly out and go across the room. Bolt went back together with firing pin and the rifle actually function and didn't explode or anything.

[U.S.G.I.]

It's fast...

It's quick...

It's simple to use...

Go with the bolt assembly tool...