Gun Files - M1 Garand

[greasemonkeyredneck]

This particular rifle I guess you would call my dream gun. If I had to choose one rifle to trade all my other guns for and just have the one gun, this would be it.

 

 

 

M1 Garand

Semi-automatic rifle

Weight: 9.5 lbs.

Barrel Length: 24 inches

Magazine Capacity: 8 cartridges

Caliber: .30-06 Springfield

 

The .30 caliber M1 Garand rifle was the semi-automatic that made a big difference for the American troops during WW II. Adopted in 1936, the M1 replaced the model 1903 Springfield rifle, a bolt action that saw duty in border conflicts with Mexico and served well in World War I.

 

The replacement of a well liked bolt action rifle with an innovative semi automatic was controversial, and the new M1 Garand had to endure heavy criticism when its gas operated mechanism was less than reliable at the National Matches in Camp Perry, Ohio. But the refined M1 went to war in 1942 in the hands of US Marines, who carried the Garands to Guadalcanal. The superior firepower of the semi automatic-offering eight quick shots and instant recharging-made the M1 Garand a good choice for jungle fighting. In Europe, the M1 was popular with paratroopers engaged with German strongholds. The fame of the M1 had made its way up through the ranks by 1945, and General George S. Patton proudly stated that he considered the M1 Garand to be the "Greatest battle implement ever devised."

 

Competitive Accuracy

Modified Garands with side mounted telescopic sights were used by American snipers during WW II and later during the Korean War. The Garand proved to have accuracy equal to the earlier Springfields, and in post war years became a common sight on the firing line with high power rifle competitors.

Recent large imports of former Lend/Lease M1 rifles sold to friendly nations have brought this warhorse into common civilian use. Even the U.S. government has proven to be a source for M1 Garands, which were sold through the Director of Civilian Marksmanship to shooting clubs and individuals. More than sixty years after its introduction, the M1 Garand is still a formidable military classic.

 

 

 

Fascinating Fact

While over six million Garand rifles were producd during WW II and the Korean War, the U.S. Government never paid a penny in royalties to its inventor, John C. Garand. Garand worked for the government at Springfield Armory and was not entitled to recieve any royalties from his work there.