M1A Butt stock Cleaning Kit storage solution

[Rekraps]

For those of you who own a SA M1A and like me, want to accessorize it ala GI style, be aware that the butt stock storage ports (holes/tubes) are inadequate to store the complete cleaning kit. For my original 1986 M1A, the complete kit fits fine (cleaning rods/bore brush in green canvas in one tube, while the cleaning rod handle/tool, chamber brush & oil bottle in the other).

 

HOWEVER.... I own several "modern" M1A's (walnut and plastic) and the kit does not fit. So, today I spent about an hour and fixed the problem. Whether it's a walnut stock or plastic, if you gun has the folding shoulder brace, the fix is the same.

 

Problem:

• While the cleaning rod in pouch fits, the handle/chamber brush and oil bottle tube is about 1/2 inch too shallow, thus not allowing the cleaning kit access door to close.

Solution:

 

• Ensure the gun is unloaded
• Remove the stock
• Remove the receiver
• Remove the butt plate
• Using a 3/4 in wood bit, and an extension, drill SLOWLY into the tube until the handle/chamber brush & oil bottle sit flush with the stock end. Go slow and tap/blow out wood or plastic shavings. You may feel a bit of a "give" on the plastic stock, but that is okay. Drilling to the correct depth will not poke a hole through the stock handle.
• Once the unit is flush, reattach the butt stock and reassemble the gun.

The cleaning kit fits tight, so there is no rattle. I installed the rod pouch so the pull tab is oriented toward the center of the opening.

 

There you go!