blazzent45
Member
blazzent45,
Welcome to the MDS forum. There are many very knowledgeable folks who regularly contribute here. And welcome to the world of M1 Garands. They are in a class of their own.
You will get varied advice here. I’ve never dealt with Mr. Maloney but I’ve always heard he’s among the best locally on Garands. I’d also highly recommend you read and learn as much as you can about the rifle. Understanding their history and how the M1 is built and operates will be of major value to your enjoying your rifle.
The CMP is among the best places to start. In addition to their website and forum they offer classes on M1’s. 4570inMD and I attended an advanced armorer class together in 2018. It was well worth the cost and an experience we’ll always remember.
Regarding your rifle, I would strip and clean the action and validate function and safety BEFORE ever firing it. AND, has been said, shoot ONLY M2 Ball rated ammo.
Below are links to the 2022 CMP class sign ups and a thread about our trip. Please update us on your M1 progress!
https://thecmp.org/training-tech/advanced-maintenance-class/
https://www.mdshooters.com/showthread.php?t=217956
I most certainly am not rushing to shoot the rifle before a proper looking over, I doubt the pawn shop took the time nor spent the money on having it looked at. And thank you so much for the information I am eager to learn everything I can about working on the great peace of history.