CMP Garand: Field vs Service Grades

[RaggedClaws]

I'm sorry if this topic has already been explored, I did a search but didn't find exactly what I'm looking for...

For those of you who have seen/handled both, what is the difference between the Service Grade and Field Grade Garands, besides the $105 difference in price? The CMP site says the Field Grade has more muzzle wear and has seen more general use and abuse, but is this worth $105 in your opinion? I'm looking for a shooter, for plinking and the hypothetical end of world scenario, not formal matches. What grade would be best for me?

Thanks for your opinions in advance

 

[Telperion]

Asked here: http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=145628

 

[Hawken50]

I've been wondering the same thing.

i did find this on the cmp website,

Rack Grade Rifles... This grade is ideal for the individual who does not plan to use the rifle in serious competition or who plans to replace the barrel after a few thousand rounds.

that said i think i'm gonna at least put up the extra $45 for field grade. i would also like to hear from people with first had experiance with field and service grade

 

[RaggedClaws]

Thanks Telperion! I can't believe I missed that one in the search...

 

[Keaner]

I bought a Field Grade (SG was way expensive for me) because my sole intent was just to get a "plinking" (if thats possible w/ 30-06) rifle.

The condition of the rifle was amazing, headspace was good, and the barrel was sufficient. Unless you are going to shoot for accuracy instead of just for fun, the FG is a good choice.

BTW: a new barrel is only a 150$ if you ever want accuracy.

I avoided Rack grade, because I figured the extra 50$ was worth the upgrade.

BTW: I have never been happier with any purchase I have ever made. My CMP Garand is a beautiful, and in great shape.

EDIT, sorry about the size, Linkies instead
http://myweb.wit.edu/keanee/images/DCP_0982.JPG
http://myweb.wit.edu/keanee/images/DCP_0984.JPG

 

[Ed]

I have bought 3 service grades 3 racks and 1 field over the last 3 years. The Most Accurate one is a USGI Rack H&R. Second is a SG Springfield, third is a RG Winchester. The Win has a LMR barrel. I have not shot the Field grade yet but it has a like new LMR barrel brand new Repark and the only thing unattractive was the repair on the stock. That said, the racks were purchased before we had Field grades and were marked finish and bore. All of my garands have a ME under 3 and TE under 5. If I were you I'd go for a FG. Only reason being is that I dislike the birch wood and the SG are all greek so there is a chance at getting it. No biggie to switch the stocks just my opinion.

 

[jefnvk]

If I were mail ordering, I would get a service. Yeah, there are a lot of nice fields, but to me at least, it isn't worth risking getting a piece of junk.

That said, I have bought four from the North store over the last year, two of which were racks and two of which were fields. All four, no one could figure out why they wern't service grades.

 

[RaggedClaws]

Field grade is sounding better and better. I especially like that I can get a pure USGI Field Grade, while all the Service Grade ones were lent to Greece with Greek repairs, etc. That makes them a touch more collectible in my eyes (I am a collector too, btw, just on a small budget).

I've been waiting for my C&R to arrive. I had the ATF interview last week and the agent said it should be no longer than another 4 weeks (I sent my app in at the end of April, ugh, what a wait).

Anyway, thanks everyone, I can't wait to put my order in...

 

[Ed]

ATF interview?????

 

[RaggedClaws]

Yup, apparently in NY state, the ATF has to come to your house and go over your application and the rules and regs in person, and then you have to sign a sheet that says they went over this and that. No big deal. It was over in 20 minutes and we didn't leave the living room...

 

[Trebor]

Go with the Service Grade. You may get a nice Field Grade, but your odds are better with a Service Grade, unless you can pick the rifle out yourself. Avoid the Rack Grades, unless you are going to rebarrel.

 

[DMK]

Yup, apparently in NY state, the ATF has to come to your house and go over your application and the rules and regs in person, and then you have to sign a sheet that says they went over this and that. No big deal. It was over in 20 minutes and we didn't leave the living room...

I am sooo glad I left that stinkin' state and now live in relative freedom.