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After just buying an M1 carbine, I am looking for an M1 Garand. I've learned quite a bit from looking on the internet at various sites. I would like one made during WWII in nice shape that is mostly original. I would also like to shoot this gun on occasion. Would it be better to find a rebuilt one or get an original unmolested and what kind of price range am I looking at? thanks
Just saw this thread. I am where you are also. I will watch this thread with interest too. Thanks
The price will vary with what you get. What you want is harder to get than what will be available to you. Watch for the good samaritan that wants to offer a deal. It may not be right. If you want to shoot it also, and why not, then I would get a later and more common one. Where to get it is simple, advertise here on the WTB and see what it brings you.
I recently purchased one as you descibed from Empire Arms. Expect $800+.
An original WW2 made Garand in unaltered condition is not that common and they usually command fairly high prices, up to $2000 and more depending on maker and condition. The great majority of M1 Garands have been rebuilt at one time or another.
I got 99% of mine at the CMP. I got 2 WWII M1s in SA service and SA field grades. $595 and $495 + shipping(22.95) Not guaranteed a WWII unless you order the WRA rifles as all Winchesters were made in WWII. These are arsenal rebuilt and though many of the parts on the 3 WRAs I received are WWII ,the stock,barrel , and sights (the parts hardest to get ) are all newer. the prices for WRAs are $200 more at CMP but it's guaranteed WWII. If you get one ask for USGI wood or you may get a new CMP stock and they are just too light and new for my taste. The ones I saw at the gun show this weekend were HRAs and beat to heck. I put my CMP Muzzle gauge on them and clunk they went. Then I shook them around. Now that's loose. And they wanted $800 for them. So beware.
I agree that CMP is the best source for a reliable and customer-service backed Garand. You can get them from other sources, but you can beat the value for the price of CMP.
I second this.Quote:
Originally Posted by Devious6
I think you mean can't beat the value.;)Quote:
Originally Posted by Devious6
You say you want a WW11 M1 Garand that is in nice shape and "mostly original". You also ask is it better to get a "rebuilt one" or an "original unmolested".Quote:
Originally Posted by Greystone45
Without a doubt an "original unmolested" would be number 1. The problem is it will not be that easy to find, and when found, the price will be quite high. $ 2500.00 plus
2nd choice would be a nice correct RESTORED WW11 rifle. $ 1500. + or - depending on factors such as year of manufacture, condition of rifle and wood.
A rebuild, meaning a rifle as rebuilt post war by a U.S. Arsenal, $ 700 plus depending on condition and wood.
I don't think you will find these types of rifles at CMP. For what you seem to want you might consider The "Garand Marketplace" of the Garand Collectors Journal. Don't get me wrong, CMP is fine if you want a shooter or a nice Post War rifle but not for what you seem to be looking for. You can also find nice rifles at auction, even on G.B., but you really have to do your homework if buying from an auction.
One other thing, if you are considering buying a "mixmaster" and restoring it yourself, don't, unless you just want the fun of doing it. Money wise it's much better buying a rifle that someone else has correctly restored.
Yes, I would like choice #1 or possibly #2 mentioned above. If it's acceptable to have a restored one with original parts I would take that. I would rather have a stock that has not been refinished, just so a restored one holds it value. Thanks
If you can afford it look for #1 otherwise a properly restored rifle is fine. As far as the stock, you are correct in wanting one that has not been refinished, but you do want the stock to match the rest of the rifle, useage wise. You want the stock to be comparable to the rest of the rifle as far as wear. Look at Scott Duffs web site. It will give you a good idea of prices and also the difference in price between "original" (#1) and "restored" (2). While he may not have many Garands right now he adds to his inventory regularly. While Scotts prices may seem a bit high, if you buy from him you can be 100% sure you are getting what Scott says you are getting. When you are spending that kind of money you really want an experts help and that is what you have with Scott. In fact if and when you may want to sell, the fact it came from Scott Duff will go a long way.Quote:
Originally Posted by Greystone45
Scott Duff Publications Historic Martial Arms: M1 Garand, M1 Carbine, M1903, Krag, M1911A1 Good luck.
I agree with the above posters, the CMP is the best game in town if you want a Garand. Even better, go to the north or south store and pick out the one you want. The staff will help you out on this....chris3
Thanks for the information, I contacted Scott and will see what he says.