NRA Gun of the Week: Springfield Armory M1 Garand Rifle

American Hunter Staff

posted on November 8, 2016

Support NRA American Hunter DONATE

** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Just a few years before the United States entered the second global war, the U.S. service rifle changed from the bolt-action M1903 Springfield, to the gas-piston-operated semi-automatic M1 Garand. This standard issue rifle changed the game for our troops with its ability to fire repeatedly, shots of .30-’06 Springfield, as fast as one could squeeze the trigger. Mark Keefe hosts this week’s NRA Gun of the Week—a vintage rifle that some may say changed modern warfare.

Technical Specifications:

• Make: U.S. Springfield Armory
• Model: M1 Garand
• Chambering: .30-’06 Sprg.
• Action: gas-operated semi-automatic rifle
• Receiver: forged steel, Parkerized
• Barrel: 23.5”, Parkerized
• Magazine: eight-round, en-bloc clip
• Sights: rear aperture adjustable for windage and elevation; protected post front
• Trigger: 7-lb., 3-oz. pull
• Stock: walnut

Latest

Member's Hunt: The Spot

Back in 1963, my dad asked if I wanted to go deer hunting in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan (what we locals call the U.P.). We had no tent, no camper and no cabin, although we did have a horse truck, and we converted it into a deer camp. Read on for this week's Member's Hunt, from Jim Mikkelsen.

News, New for 2026

Late Season Decoy Mix

In the final days of duck season, don’t be afraid to change the look of your decoy spreads. Be it a simple alteration or a bold move, a different presentation can be all it takes to provide a strong finish to the season.

News, Upland & Waterfowl

New for 2026: Stealth Cam 3.0 Tail Cameras

Stealth Cam has announced its 3.0 trail camera line, with some major tech-forward improvements over its previous generations. Designed for hunters and wildlife managers, these cameras introduce a suite of technologies designed to push surveillance capabilities to the next level, all accessible through the Command app.

News, New for 2026

Kifaru Launches New Hunting Apparel System

“This system is a purpose-driven solution for the tough environments and unpredictable scenarios outdoor enthusiasts’ encounter. Every piece was designed to help hunters meet those challenges head on.”

Gear, Guns & Gear

Hardware Review: Sierra MatchKing X

Sierra MatchKing bullets have been setting the accuracy standard for handloaders since the Truman administration. Now, they have redesigned their classic MatchKing bullet for hunting, with a softer lead core, tapered jacket and a skived nose to help it expand. They call the bullet the MatchKing X (MKX).

News, Ammo