gunmaker,
For $300 you did not get hurt. That's about right for an M1 parts kit..... I would NOT have paid $400 for a CAI built M1 unless it had some very rare and exceptionally collectible parts as a part of it's makeup.
Re the CAI M1 receivers: Reports on those have varied widely. They have not been made for some years now, but back when they were commonly available through distributors the guys buying them reported functionality running the gamut. If you have one that shoots and functions well.... be happy. If not, then I'd suggest you get a USGI receiver from the CMP and have the rifle re-built on that.
Also... the wood on your M1 is European Beech, stained dark. This was used by the Danish as replacement wood on the M1's that the US loaned-sold them way back when. Only two wood types were used by USGI suppliers and arsenals.... walnut (Mostly used as factory original.) and US birch (Mostly used as replacement wood.).
CAI used Danish returned M1 parts kits that came back to the US via Canada to build the M1's they sold. The CMP also sold complete Danish returned M1's a few years back.
For a good and better valuation of the rifle you have it would help to know all of the drawing & revision numbers on the rifles individual parts.
Best regards,
Swampy
Garands forever