Help me find my next rifle, an M1 Garand

[dc dalton]

I fired an M1 Garand about 3 weeks ago, a friend came up from Jersey with a few rifles and we hit the range for the day. I have to say I was damn impressed with the M1 (had never fired one before) .. he said the maker of that one was Springfield and it was worth about $2k.

So then last weekend I hit the Allentown show and there were a bunch of them. From $700 - $2500 ... to be honest there were so many at so many different prices I had no idea what to buy. I saw Springfields that ranged from $1k up to $2k.

So how is the value of an M1 set? Of course I understand condition (duh) but what besides condition sets the price for an M1. This is going to be my next rifle (unless I stumble across a decent AK at a decent price) and I would really like to know what the hell I am looking at and what it may (or may not) be worth.

thanks in advance

[arrrrgh15]

I'm in the same boat as you.

Check out the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP). They have price lists for various grade Garands.

In September I'm sending them my affiliated membership info, my discharge papers, and ordering a Garand direct from them.

[mikepro8]

If you want a shooter with no collector value (it sounds like your friends does), there is no other better way than CMP (www.odcmp.com). If you want a good shooter, get a service grade. If you want to get one and really build it up into a match gun, get a rack grade then replace parts as necessary.

[Xringshooter]

Go to CMP. Prices start at $425 and go up. Service grade is 595 plus 23 shipping. You can also get surplus ammo at a decent price.

[dc dalton]

Well I am really looking for something to shoot that also has some collector value (but doesn't cost me $2k) .. I know, I want it all

[brian]

If you want a shooter with no collector value

all usgi guns have some collector value.

[Pector55]

I had sent my order to CMP on July 1st and I got an order confirmation tonight (the 17th). My only rush was that I wanted to place an order for 30-06 ammo. At least I know they got my order and it was processed.

[Scud]

The best thing for you to do is just do some searches on the M1, and hit the gunshops. Don't get into a hurry to pick one up. Look up the manufacturer's dates for the serial numbers, check the dates on the barrel and handle a few to check their function. You will begin to get a more clear picture of what you are looking for in an M1 as you learn more about them.

Take your time.

[dc dalton]

The best thing for you to do is just do some searches on the M1, and hit the gunshops. Don't get into a hurry to pick one up. Look up the manufacturer's dates for the serial numbers, check the dates on the barrel and handle a few to check their function. You will begin to get a more clear picture of what you are looking for in an M1 as you learn more about them.

Take your time.

Good advice ... I'm in no rush anyways

[Scud]

You can still get a good m1 for just under $800.00. Lots of folks are selling things right now. Go out and get your hands on as many as you can and get a feel for what you want in an m1. You may find that you can still get a quality service, (Vet) rifle that has some history. You will also find the mix and match of vintage recievers, and some parts on a more modern type m1. You will see what I am talking about as you get out there and get some hands on. You will have to make a decision of just what you want in the end. M1's are easy to collect too. Avoid this pitfall if at all possible. Been there/done that. Variety, (in your collection) is the spice of life.