[QUOTE=MAC702;537972]1. I'm immediately skeptical when anyone says "all original" about a Garand, especially one that is "available." I find the definitions vary when pressed for details.
2. "Correct grade" is just a marketing term. It's nothing you can't do yourself with a few buddies swapping parts. Yeah, it's kinda cool if you care, though, and if it comes with the CMP tag, it helps resale value for your heirs.
Maybe Correct is not the best term to use - how would you describe a rifle restored to a configuration that is consistent with how it left the factory?
This rifle originally had a bad op-rod and was sent back to CMP on its return it had an NM Op-rod and NM gas cylinder - Barrel was NM marked when purchased
He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose
There are no great men, only great challenges that ordinary men are forced by circumstances to meet.
I’d pick all three, because I didn’t understand what no.s 2 and 3 are in detail, so, not to miss anything good, I’d just go for a big grab!
34a cp., btg. Susa, 3° rgt. Alpini
Collector Grade is valuable to those who want to collect "As manufactured." CMP often has the correct parts and can simulate originality by putting on the right ones. You can do it yourself with a lot of searching and expense or let them do it for you.
Real men measure once and cut.