Has anyone had any dealings with the Civilian Marksmanship Program?

Question

I was thinking of buying an M-1 Garand, and want to know how other people's experience with this program has been.

Basically, I'm wondering what condition the rifles are in, especially the field and service grade ones. Are they still accurate, and dependable, or have most of them seen better days?

Answer 1

I purchased a "Special" series Garand a few months ago. (Special being CMPese for a rebuilt Garand...doesnt have historical value, but they are in great shape and usually very accurate)

I was pleased with the transaction. I joined the Garand Collectors Association for $25 to cover the "club" requirement.

I used my hunter's safety (with live fire trainig) to cover the compentency requirements. I enclosed my credit card number, my Driver's License, and my Illinois FOID Card. A few months later, a rifle was delivered right to my door.

As I said, I purchased one of the rebuilds and it was gorgeous.

I plan on buying an IBM Carbine later in 2008. I'd spring for another Garand (maybe field grade) to take out in the field and hunt deer with, but I got better things to spend money on right now (besides I need another deer rifle like I need a hole in the head...besides, the Garand is kind of heavy to be carrying all day long in the day of modern light rifles....call me a wimp I guess).

The CMP is great to deal with. They emailed me when I got my application. They gave me an update email, and finally emailed me when the rifle was on its way.

Great program! The supply of Garands is getting kind of spotty now a days, even when compared to only a few years ago. If you are going to buy one and see one on their list you like, buy it!.

Answer 2

I bought an M-1 carbine and later a Garand through the old DCM from years ago. If I can offer any advice, save up and buy the best grade you can afford. The service grade rifles are going to be moderately abused but shootable for the most part. As with any used weapon, especially one that has been in storage for many years, plan on doing some rework or taking it to a pro and have it gone over. Shoot safe and have fun.

Answer 3

I used to shoot at DCM meets in Nevada. I ordered my garand thru them back in the late 70's and continued to shoot their matches up thru the late 80's. I really enjoyed the competition and the friendship I developed with other shooters. I encourage people to purchase thru the DCM. Not only garands but ammo and parts as well. I'm sorry to see that they are now just selling "parts guns" mostly, but I have seen a few come out that were really nice. I saw that they had a few 1903's in as well. I also bought an M1 carbine thru them back in the 70's. I sure wish they could get more funding from the government too. I also relate to people how their buddy, then president Billy boy Clinton, ordered the destruction of thousands of M1 Garands, and the destruction of millions of rounds of 30 06 ammo that could have gone to the program. But billy boy wet his undies at the thought of law abiding citizens being able to purchase or own the fine old war horses known as the M1 garand, so what he couldn't sell off to third world countries, he ordered destroyed.
A little off subject, but needed to be said cuz if Heil Hillary gets in, first thing she will do is sign the assault bill back into law and make Billy boys actions look tame.

Answer 4

Yes.

Good Experience. As long as you meet their requirements (member of an organization, training, etc)

Some grades are better than others. If you want hitorical significance... may have seen some better days... but are still great shooters

Answer 5

Prices are good you might have to wait for a while to get it but you will get it.

You know you have to be a member of a shooting org to be able to buy from them. Check their web site to see if you can buy from them.

Answer 6

Yes, they carry a good selection and if you have been approved you can walk in and buy on site and pick out your own rifle