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Posted: 10/3/2025 8:31:46 PM EDT
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Is there any way to load an M1 Garand with a loaded clip inserted and an EMPTY chamber? Could it be done with a downloaded clip (e.g. 7 rounds)? Could the fully-loaded clip be inserted, the bolt eased partly forward and then the top round be removed manually? This would be for an action rifle match where we want the competitors to start the stage in Condition 3 (loaded magazine, empty chamber). Some folks may bring an M1. |
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Originally Posted By AR-180: High power shooters do this with the Garand. It’s called “load to an override.” With seven or less rounds, it can be done. Be careful, or you’ll get Garand Thumb. The thumb holds the cartridges down while the palm blocks the op rod. Awesome, thanks for the quick reply... very helpful 
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Yes, I've used this to let others shoot my Garand to get the last round clip ejection ping without having to burn through 8 rounds of .30-06. I usually do 2 or 3 rounds, but it can work with up to 7. It's easier to load to override, then cycle it, than to try to manually feed the top round while riding the op rod closed. Better for your thumb too. In your case, load to override gets you to the desired condition of magwell loaded, chamber empty. |
Here's a decent video on the "crossed rounds" loading for the 10-round rapids CMP matches. But the empty clip in the receiver and load whatever rounds needed is a good method. Start at the 2 minute mark: How to load the M1 Rifle with 2 - 8 rounds |
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