Advice for Purchase

[jkghome]

I am in the market for a M-1 and am very confused. I have been to several gun shows just to look around and I always come away more confused. Could someone tell me what to look for. There are so many models and look alikes that it is hard to tell them apart. I am a sort of greenhorn at this weapons purchase stuff, but I like to be an informed consumer and I like to get the most or best for my money. I have been looking a t Springfield Armory's website and I really like the new rifles that they have. But I am not sure if buying a new one would be better than taking my time and waiting for someone to part with and older rifle. I would also appreciate it if someone could provide me with some history and function links so that i can understand the weapon in more detail.

I am a member of the Mini 14 section and I have always gotten excellent information and assistance from all those great folks. I have always believed that the best way to get real factual info is to go t othe most knowledgeable source.

Thanking all who respond in advance JKG

[swill269]

:o
i had an old one that had the receiver cut in half and welded back. shot great but the front and rear sights were about a 1/2" out of alignment. :blink: i think you would do good to get a springfield. you would get a new gun with warranty and factory representation :rolleyes:
:cool: :usa: :beer:

[hhshooter]

BALONEY!!! swill. Who do you think you are trying to BS here?

Jkghome don't listen to this guy. He doesn't know anything abou guns. He's just a blow hard.

There are a lot of good rifles out there but none are cut in half and welded back.

[Swede]

jk, when the M1 first came out the only way to get one if you weren't in the Military was to get a De-milled receiver and build up a rifle. These De-milled receivers were cut into two to three pieces and they can still be found. If you are going to buy an M1, look at the drawing numbers on the legs. Also look close at the middle section of the receiver for any weld marks. If the legs numbers match you should be okay.

First off I would look at the heel. Go to the gallery at the top of the page here. wjkuleck has some good pictures of the heel. If this area is blank I would walk away from the rifle.
From there if you don't have measuring tools you can try the bullet check, it will give you an idea as to barrel condition. All you do is stick a bullet in the mussle end, if it goes in past the crimping groove the barrel maybe worn. The only thing is it may still shoot good.
When you say different models..there is only one Garand and the gallery also shows you what they look like.
Check Scott Duff's websight. He has a lot of info there on what to check.

If you are still not sure check out the CMP and get one from them. It's really the best way to go.

[swill269]

mine was cut and welded in the magazine well.

[ndbbm4]

Stop screwing round. Join a state organization andqualify for a CMP Garand. I own 2. First one cost me $121 delivered. The other was $400 + shipping and insurance. Buy a genuine US Rifle M1 from CMP and you will never regret it.

[dave1387]

I decided to buy a Garand from CMP rather than off the shelf because of:

a. Save an old war dog. Give her a good retirement home
b. Price

California requires a Firearm Safety Certificate, which CMP took in place of marksmanship activity requirement.

Joined Garand Collectors Assoc ($25/yr) to meet the club req. Good magazines with lots of info included.

Either way you get one I'm sure you'll be happy.