M1 Garand operating rod question

[MackMan]

Took the M1 out to the range to test out some reloads. IMR 4895, 150 gr sierra bullets over powder charge ranging from 48-49 gr. When I got home took the rifle apart to inspect and clean and check op rod because these were my first reloads for my M1. Only shot 20 rounds of reload through it to make sure everything was good.. Rifle cycled and shot great. But I'm concerned about the op rod. I know its suppose to have a slight bend but now Im not too sure because of some bluing thats rubbed off. Please check pics.

[markw]

The bend is in the vertical plane so that it can follow the contour of the barrel. Without seeing where your charging handle is, we can't tell from these pictures, since we can't see the orientation of the oprod. The parkerizing wearing off in that spot is indicating that it's rubbing the stock as it cycles. One of the acurizing tricks is to make sure the op rod clears the stock when it cycles. I'm thinking your oprod is ok, as the bend looks about like what one of the ones I just pulled out of my stash looks like.

Mark

[M1A Rifleman]

How did you select that load if this is the first reloads thru it? Per my manual, that charge is at the upper end of the scale. To me, its too hot for an M1 especially if this is the first reloads you have ever tried in it. You start low and work up. Use the lowest charge needed to function and be accurate.

[Don the savage]

Your op rod is normal. Your recipe is the standard recommendedhttp://masterpostemple.bravepages.com/M1load.htm NRA load so you are fine.

[ironmike]

The bend is in the vertical plane so that it can follow the contour of the barrel. Without seeing where your charging handle is, we can't tell from these pictures, since we can't see the orientation of the oprod. The parkerizing wearing off in that spot is indicating that it's rubbing the stock as it cycles. One of the acurizing tricks is to make sure the op rod clears the stock when it cycles. I'm thinking your oprod is ok, as the bend looks about like what one of the ones I just pulled out of my stash looks like.

Mark

I would agree here to the above. Out of curiosity, has the stock been replaced by perhaps an aftermarket stock like Boyd's?

[Lone_Gunman]

Have you performed the tilt test?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlIoxbtdPXY

If it fails it's rubbing somewhere. You can relieve the stock and/or the stock ferrule.

Also make sure the rifle is well greased.

[MackMan]

I would agree here to the above. Out of curiosity, has the stock been replaced by perhaps an aftermarket stock like Boyd's?

The stock is CMP. But there is a Boyd stamp inside of it.

Also I did do the slide test as per you tube video and it seems fine.

Thanks for the help !

[rob1105]

The op rod does have a slight bend. If you have any worries do a simple tilt test. I think your M1 Garand is fine

[0321jarhead]

Actually the stock is Boyd. CMP bought a few to help replace some of the original beat up stocks. Boyds stocks are good.

[Orlando]

Bought a few?? Service Grades have been coming with Boyds/Dupage stocks for some time now. While some still come with USGI wood its a better chance of getting commercial wood

[pklin1297]

I hope my HRA's come with new wood...

[Cactus_Tim]

My HRA, along with all the ones I've seen posted lately, have come with new wood.

[rm1911]

How did you select that load if this is the first reloads thru it? Per my manual, that charge is at the upper end of the scale. To me, its too hot for an M1 especially if this is the first reloads you have ever tried in it. You start low and work up. Use the lowest charge needed to function and be accurate.

agreed. I run 45-46 gr. IMR 4895.