Thanks Jim, it was a good read. That thread and MAC702's reply helped clarify things in my mind.

After my last message to you I think I figured out the methods required. The mount HAS to be pressed to the barrel prior to installing it onto a receiver. I wish I could see a drawing for the base internal diameter and M1D barrel diameter after turning. If needed, I could probably select the interference fit that is pretty close to USGI spec. It will be a mid range press fit at a minimum. I am sure an alignment jig/fixture will be necessary to assure desired base and barrel radial alignment when pressed, but that is pretty straight forward (Ive designed many fixtures and tooling jigs in my career). I have a 3 ton press, so I am sure I could do it...I just dont have a lathe and am not sure Id trust myself with one anyway!

I could be wrong, but after reading the entire thread, it appeared a few were confusing the base with the mount. I have seen some repro mounts and I was not impressed. IF I have a repro base I am less concerned dimensionally, but proper hardness may be an issue. For clarity, I refer to the base as the machined block that is pressed to the barrel, and the mount as the stamped and formed item that holds the scope and screws/affixes onto the base. So I still need someone who can turn down the barrel, but Im not sure I need a gunsmith per se, with the possible exception as to whether any facing or trimming is needed to the base (as Criterion seems to indicate is a possibility in their add).

Ill have to re-read the barrel to receiver alignment process for the M1 Garand. I wasnt thrilled with the prospect when I first read it. What boggles my mind is why did Garand not include scribed alignment lines on both the barrel and receiver. It works fine for the 1903, M1917, and M1 Carbine...why not the Garand and probably the M14/M1Aicon? What am I missing here?