I have two original M1 30 cal carbine rifles. Both have FTF issues. I have tried numerous mags and still have the issues. My ammo is military issued, in the can, also original. Would polishing the feed ramp help and if so, how do I do that?

Question

I have two original M1 30 cal carbine rifles.  Both have FTF issues.  I have tried numerous mags and still have the issues.  My ammo is military issued, in the can, also original.  Would polishing the feed ramp help and if so, how do I do that?

James G. · Answer

Roy, a technique I use is to coat the feed ramp with white out and then chamber a round. It will reveal where the greatest area of friction is and then gently polish that area first. Some polish the entire feed ramp but it is usually a specific spot where hangups occur. Cheers and stay safe!

David C. · Answer

Yes, polishing the feed ramp will always help with feed problems especially if using hollow point ammo. You can use any metal polish and I prefer a soft triangle shaped tip that I use on my Dremel tool to polish the ramp till it comes out looking like it has a chrome like finish. I've also come across other weapons that had the feed ramp powder coated black. I chip all of that black powder coat off and polish the ramps on those two. The powder coat gets soft when it gets hot and the rounds, especially hollow points tend to gid into it.

Charles S. · Answer

I would try polishing the feed ramp with some metal polish and an Emory cloth before I took a dremel to it unless you are very experienced using them as it's very easy to mess up a feed ramp. Also coating a round or feed ramp with something that will transfer to the feed ramp should show your problem area.

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