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The M1 rifle was designed so that the bolt would close automatically when a full clip is inserted. In practice, most of the time it will be necessary to tap the op rod handle with the heel of the hand to get the first round to feed.
But "M1 thumb" doesn't occur when loading a clip. The pressure of the thumb on the top round keeps it from moving and allows the operator to get his thumb out of the way even if the bolt does close by itself.
The problem almost always happens when the bolt is not retracted all the way and the front of the bolt rests on the sloping surface of the follower slide. In that position, a slight touch on the follower will let the bolt slam forward and the result is generally a somewhat muted scream. (Of course, it is necessary to immediately clean the rifle as blood rusts steel; first aid for the sufferer can wait.)
Jim
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