Rifle information

[mhdishere]

I don't really know if this belongs here or in the Rifle forum, feel free to move it....

After quite a while of shooting revolvers, I've been getting the itch for a rifle or two (or ten!). Since I'm, well, anal, I never jump into anything without research.

While I know I OUGHT to get a .22 first, some other rifles have been calling my name, in particular an SKS and a Garand (nostalgia on the second one, my Dad carried a Garand thru the South Pacific in the Marines in WW II). The problem is that I know NOTHING about handling rifles (I shot someone elses bolt action Marlin .22 a couple times, and I have shot a Civil War musket). I don't know how to clean them, and I especially don't know how to take them apart for cleaning.

Are there any online references on the SKS and Garand that give instruction on how to disassemble them, what not to disassemble, and how to go about getting the gunk off? Also about loading/shooting them. If not online, can anyone recommend a book that would be a good resource?

Thanks!

 

[MrMurphy]

The SKS only has about five parts. The M1 Garand has a few more, there are dozens of manuals out there, try www.paladin-press.com or www.amazon.com. If that fails, your local gunshop, or your nearest WW2/Korea veteran can help on the M1. (Good reason to visit the VFW).

 

[yci]

The CMP has a decent guide regarding the Garand at http://www.civilianmarksmanship.com/ .

Also, there's a video showing the disassembly of the Garand at Surplusrifle.com.

 

[TimRB]

While I agree that everyone should own a Garand, I think you should at least *plan* to get a 22 also. Ammo cost, and also you'll need something to shoot after your M1 has pummelled your shoulder for a while.

Tim

 

[Leatherneck]

Or you could look for an M-1 carbine--sort of a cross between a Garand and a .22

TC
TFL Survivor

 

[mhdishere]

Thanks for the info and links. Never thought of visiting the VFW, good idea! There's a post about 3 blocks from home, I wonder what they'd say if I walked in with an M1???? Good excuse to go hear some old war stories too, probably remind me of my Dad who's been gone 18 years.

Tim,
No fear, a .22 is on the list too. I just figure any .22 I get would probably be new, therefore come with a manual telling me how to tear it down.

Leatherneck,
Since I live in NJ, the M1 Carbine is verbotten. There are versions of it you can buy in NJ I think. I never looked into it though, also for nostalgic reasons, Dad had one for a while and HATED it. At the first opportunity he picked up a Garand.