Mountain Aerospace Machining M1 Thumbsaver

by
posted on December 27, 2020
** 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. **
thumbsave.jpg

Recognizing a void in the market for a modified M1 Garand operating rod catch, machinist Clint Whitehair has developed the new M1 Thumbsaver. It offers the same functionality as the previously available Holbrook device (June/July 2020, p. 40), but is machined from hardened 4150 steel and features a Parkerized finish and Teflon-infused lubricant. The device prevents “M1 thumb” and allows easy loading of rounds individually into a standard en bloc clip. When a clip is inserted into the rifle, it locks into place and holds the bolt open. The first round is loaded by pulling back and releasing the charging handle. When the last round has been fired, the rifle locks open on the empty clip, which can be ejected by depressing the clip latch. The device is easy to install and does not require permanent modifications to the rifle. Price: $75. Contact: Mountain Aerospace Machining; (406) 552-7516; m1thumbsavers.square.site.

Latest

firing a musket rifle
firing a musket rifle

Today’s Makers of Yesterday’s Firearms

Original firearms from the American Revolution era are valuable and best preserved for posterity. For those who want to shoot them, several modern makers offer quality reproductions.

Left Turn (Bolt): Tikka's New Left-Handed T3x Ace Rifles

Lefties of the world unite and rejoice, as Tikka has announced left-hand versions of its award-winning T3x Ace chassis rifles.

The Armed Citizen® Sept. 14, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Skills Check: Rifle Standard Delta 2

Carbine performance is all about maintaining control. The Rifle Standard Delta 2 is a drill that pressures recoil control, visual discipline and cadence as distance decreases and time compresses.

Gun Sales Up for the 7th Month in a Row in 2026

The National Shooting Sports Foundation’s (NSSF) estimate of last month’s gun sales was up 2.2 percent compared to August 2025.

Caring For & Feeding Your Cap-and-Ball Revolvers

Compared to pistoleros of the 19th century, today’s handgunners have it easy. It's not enough just to get an old-school, cap-and-ball revolver. You also need to acquire everything to shoot and clean it.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.