CMP Garand question

[losttrail]

So, I finally got off my butt and joined the Garand Collectors Association this week. Sent the form and check in yesterday. I figure with USPS and processing time, GCA will probably have my info available to CMP by Monday, June 4.

Then I should be able to buy a Garand through CMP.

Now... which one.

CMP shows Field Grade ranging from $525-$695.

Service Grade $625-$950.

From the descriptions, it looks like the differences between Field & Service would be the possible muzzle gauge and stocks.

I do not intend this to sit in a trophy case, but I also want a good, reliable, accurate rifle.

I don't want to spend the $950 but could stretch to the $695.

Does anyone have experience with Field vs. Service grade?

Thanks for any guidance.

Jerry

[rondog]

Any chance you could make a road trip to Ohio or Alabama and pick one out in person? I wish I could.

[losttrail]

Wish I could also, but not in the realm of possibilities.

[rondog]

Wish I could also, but not in the realm of possibilities.

Yeah, sucks those stores are so far away. But probably a blessing too.

[OneGuy67]

I've ordered rack grades before and they were in much better condition than what their description of a rack grade was. I was impressed with how conservative their evaluations were. I felt the rifles should have been classified as service grades. Just my experience.

[BPTactical]

I've ordered rack grades before and they were in much better condition than what their description of a rack grade was. I was impressed with how conservative their evaluations were. I felt the rifles should have been classified as service grades. Just my experience.

Trust in what this^^^ OneGuy says. He knows his Garands.

[Robb]

If you don't HAVE TO have a WWII rifle then order a Service Grade if you can swing it. You'd be happier if you just want a solid shooter.

I ordered a Field Grade about 4 years ago due to cost and the fact that I did have to have a WWII rifle. I have to say I'm more than happy with it though. The CMP has always treated me right.

You're correct, on the Service Grade the park, ME & TE and probably the stock will be better than on a Field Grade, but chances are it will be Korean War era - if you even care about that.

Consider this, when you are ready to order start making a few buds on the CMP Forum, and maybe someone could go pick you out a really nice one and have it held for you. I should have done that.

Good luck & you won't regret the purchase.
Robb

[spqrzilla]

People who intend to build a match rifle, and so will replace the barrel anyway and usually the stock, should get a field grade. Otherwise, service grade is worth the extra money.

[Scanker19]

Go with a field grade you'll never be disappointed. If you don't like it sell it and start over. Opening that box is the best part IMHO. Put a sticky note on the order form asking for what you want. If its a field grade ask for low Gauge readings and sometimes they hook it up sometimes they don't.

[Big Wall]

I haven't bought mine yet but I've been told to buy the most expensive one you can afford.