Un-modified rear handguard, what does it mean?

[.45s r best]

Hello Beginner: Good luck with your new Garand, they are great rifles. You say your operating rod is uncut? . I would research a little more about your operating rod. It is my understanding that firing a rifle with an uncut operating rod can be dangerous. And also, these early uncut rods can be valuable and are prized by collectors. It may be a good idea to get a new rod from somebody such as Fulton Armory. There are a number of other reputable dealers who sell M1 operating rods. They are listed on the internet and many of the books on Garands have a list of outlets who deal in Garands.