Monday, August 04, 2008

Thumb Saver

The Device is a replacement for the GI op rod catch and it stops automatic bolt release when loading a clip. It also prevents auto clip ejection when the last round is fired.

With it installed, the Garand operates much like the M-14/M1A. When a full clip is inserted into the receiver it will latch, however you must pull and release the bolt handle to charge the top round. It will operate in the normal manner until the last round is fired and the bolt will lock open but the clip will not eject. To eject the clip you must push the eject button on the receiver...

With an empty clip latched in the receiver, single rounds can be loaded into the clip, 1 through 8. when you have as many as you wish, just pull and release and away you go.......

The rifle is not modified and can be converted back to GI by replacing the Device with the original catch.
Anybody know anything about this?

[Via Vlad S]

5 comments:

Jerry said...

The Holbrook device is great. I have had on ein my Garand for about 8 years now.

John Holbrook, in addition to being the creator of this device, is also a 1911 afficianado, and shows off some of the neatest 1911s on the planet at various gun shows.

Matt said...

I asked him in email about it once. They're $45, IIRC, and it is basically a modified op rod catch. He removed the arm that toggles the clip release and added a spring that pushes the catch out of the way when the op rod is pulled back. The clip ejection mechanism is not modified, as it can still be toggled manually. It is a drop-in modification, if you know how to detail strip your M1. I doubt that it is legal for CMP or National Matches, but it doesn't modify any other part of your rifle and can be removed if necessary.

Anonymous said...

Get M1 thumb just once and you will not need to buy this device. Trust me.

vlad said...

I installed the Holbrook device in my Garand. It works exactly as described. I am delighted.

So long as the army supplies you with unlimited ammo it does not matter if the enbloc clips fly away never to be found.

The unreconstructed diehard resister/survivor skulking in the mesquite thickets will appreciate the Holbrook device. It allows him to remove the empty clip and keep it for reloading. That's good because he may not be able to find any more of them.

(PS Anyone who suckers a new recruit into getting an M1 thumb needs his ass kicked hourly for the rest of his life.)

Anonymous said...

Avgjoe is quite right. I gave myself M-1 thumb ONCE, the first time I ever held my first Garand. Never did it a second time.

Holbrook's device is mildly interesting, but I'd rather spend that money on ammo.