We Need to Outlaw Sandpaper

[Singer B]

I obtained this Winchester M1 Garand last week from an on-line auction. I already had an SA and obtaining a Winchester was on my "want" list. I knew from the pictures it had been sanded (thanks to what I learned on this site), but I wasn't ready for how bad. When I shouldered the rifle for the first time, I literally thought the gun was crooked. It turns out it is just a bad case of "Bubbasandpaperitis."

I attached a few photos so persons new to collecting can see what they should be looking for. When I dismantled the rifle, I found that the only Winchester part in it is the receiver (the barrel is a SA-1-48). I was slightly disappointed, but this now makes it easier to decide what to do with it. I will replace the wood with a correct period (and worn) stock and WW2 era milled trigger guard so it can be returned to its correct WW2 set-up. I do have one question for the experts - the gas cylinder on this rifle is a very dark black color, almost like a paint (photo attached). Is this a correct USGI part or an aftermarket part? Between the overdone sanding and fake flash hider, I am wondering if Bubba replaced the original cylinder with a non-USGI part?

Thank you in advance for your expertise and advice!

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