Another CMP M1 Garand "grade thread"

[Mags]

Okay,

Like most I want either a field or service grade. I understand the differences such as the service grade may come with a new stock while the field will not and the overall cosmetic condition. But the more important question is the muzzle gage differences, the service grade will gage less than 3 while the field grade may gage more than 3. Throat erosion is the same criteria for both grades.

So I want an occasional shooter but mostly a safe queen/heirloom, I will probably shoot 500 rounds max out of this rifle in my lifetime. Will the 100 dollars saved by getting a field grade over the service grade not be worth it? How bad is the barrel life and accuracy really downgraded with the field grade?

Also I will have the oppurtunity to visit the Anniston store in August will I be better suited/allowed to pick my own rifle?

 

[P-32]

If you can afford it do get a service grade for the less worn barrel if nothing more. Once you shoot one of these old work horses you will understand and don't be surprized if you look for reasons to shoot it. Find a CMP John C. Garand match. These are a real hoot. Sprnding the after noon with like thhinking people is important to ones soul.

 

[benzy2]

I think going is the best way. I would ask for a gauge when you walk in and go straight to the field grades. Ignore the wood, look for the better metal. When you find one that has decent looking metal, drop the gauge in. That's what I did at the North store. Found one that seemed to have a new barrel on it, though the wood looked like a chopped up 2x4. Bought a new stock set and have a great looking and shooting rifle. I went with a field grade. If I had to order without seeing, I'd probably bump up to service grade, but if you can go in person there are a few field grades that turn into better shooters than the bulk of the service grades out there, you just have to hunt. Get there first thing in the morning to get fresh pick over the day's rifles.

 

[Mags]

So what I get from the posts are:

1. If you can physically pick out a rifle get a field grade and gage it myself.

2. If I go through the mail get a service grade.

Thanks guys!

 

[benzy2]

A lot of guys have bought a field grade through the mail and received an excellent rifle, better than some/many service grades. The problem is that you sit with the luck of the draw. If you go in, I would search the cheaper models first for a gem hidden, and if nothing pops out, I'd then check through the next rung up price wise, until you found your keeper. Nothing against a service grade, just often if you look, you can find as good of an example or better in the field grade rack.

 

[ol' scratch]

If you could go to one of the stores, it may be beneficial to look at a field. I have grabbed a few really nice ones that gauged in like service grade rifles. However, mail order I would probably get a service grade. For every field I find that gauges like a service, there were three others that do not. The only problem with the service grades right now is that they are shipping them with orange birch replacement stocks. Some guys are getting lucky, but most are getting the birch stocks.

The CMP special grades for $895 are really a good deal too. Mine was correct except for the stock. I did a swap and now it is correct.

The Winchester service grades are very nice right now. Mine came with a very nice HRA stock and lock bar sights. They are $795, but are also more collectible. They have been REALLY nice. Mine has some correct parts, the a fore mentioned lock bars and a lead dipped heel. The rifle is a beautiful green gray color.