don't forget the bayonet!!!!!!!!!
Hogs w/ a Garand, now that would be a hoot. I'd recommend the 10" bayonet!!
My limited understanding of the commercial ammo issues is that the M1 action was set up and timed to handle circa WWII ammo pressure curves and modern sporting ammo does not replicate same. Thus damaged op rods have been reported because the rifle either locks or unlocks at the incorrect moment, I'm not sure which. I don't know how common this is, but it is discussed frequently.
Most of the loading manuals specify powders that are in the correct burn range for military semi auto rifles, so there must be some credence to the issue. Additionally, Hornady, I think, has introduced FMJ ammo specifically for the Garand, lending further proof.
You MIGHT get away w/ it,I'm sure that commercial ammo is being shot in lots of the M1's in the field today, but steady use will probably have consequences.
I'd avoid slugs heavier than 150 were I to chance it myself. And Fed ammo has always seemed a bit on the hot side to me, though my only reference is pistol ammo.
Op rods are not cheap, seems like I priced some around $150 (that's a guess) and getting a correct one is more and more difficult. If you have time, I'd research finding somebody that understands the issue and loading for the M1, and get some ctgs tailored for your rifle. That' the safe path.
Sounds like fun though and I'd jump through some hoops w/ ammo, to try and do it safely given the opportunity you describe. Good hunting.
