The M1 Garand is a beautiful rifle. To me, it just symbolizes America and the fight against fascism and later, communism. The appearance of the Denix non-firing replica of the M1 Garand is a pretty close match to the real Garand. Interestingly, the replica is 2 pounds lighter than the real Garand, but that’s probably a good thing, in most cases. With the replica, I had to play with the action a little, to figure out how to get the bolt to lock back. Also, it will occasionally bind up when released, but this was easily resolved by putting slight inward and down pressure on the lever as it was released- to keep it on its track. The metal is painted black, so it does get pretty easily scratched with normal use. Check out the video and tell me what you think. Find this rifle and more WWII replica guns at Replica Armory.
Living With the Garand Replica
A Garand takes up more room than most people expect. It is not just long, it is deep: the stock is wide, the receiver is tall and the whole thing needs a shelf at least fifteen centimetres deep. Measure the space before ordering, and remember that the rifle looks better at eye level than above a door.
The en bloc clip well is the detail that separates a good Garand replica from a generic rifle shape. On this model the clip seats and the bolt sits behind it, which means the mechanism can be demonstrated without any risk. Cycle it slowly: the operating rod is cast, and a fast slam on an empty chamber will eventually mark the receiver face.
Common questions
Does the clip eject?
The clip well is modelled and the clip seats, but the mechanism is not designed to eject it under spring pressure.
Is the stock real wood?
Yes, hardwood stained to the period colour, so the grain varies from rifle to rifle.
Making a WWII film? Here ya go: M1 Garand Denix non-firing replica rifle http://bit.ly/gV7GwB