Also, the Garand is very particular about the powder type and load. Powder that is too slow or fast or too much powder and you can damage your op rod.
Interesting. The Garand does have a rather long, slender rod, as opposed to the very short, beefy piston of the M-14.
Only experience with the Garand was ITR at Pendleton. Suppose they gave us beat up, worn out rifles so we could flop in the mud and such. Mine had a rod so worn at the piston, it was effectively a single shot. Would rarely cycle. A good slathering of Lubriplate would maybe get me through a clip. Borrowed a buddy's rifle for the move and shoot stuff............