M1 Garand

[strokin7.3]

Moving up in the world of old military rifles. Got a hot lead on an M1 Garand. Is there anything Garand specific I need to look for on the rifle when I'm checking it out before I whip out the cash?

 

[jblomenberg16]

First thing to look for is if it has an import stamp on the bottom of the barrel. While it doesn't mean it won't be a good shooter, it will hurt the value.

Otherwise, look for good condition of the barrel (bright, sharp lands and groves, not a lot of damage to the crown) and a stock with no cracks.

The trigger group needs to lock up tight as well.

 

[meyer4589]

There shouldn't be any heavy wear on the bolt contacting points if it has been lubed properly. So if there is heavy wear that could be a factor

 

[sloughfoot]

Make sure that the gas tube, operating rod, barrel, feeding mechanism, trigger assembly, and sights are all within spec.

Also that none of the moving parts make contact with the stock.

Otherwise you might have to spend a lot of money to make it right.

 

[strokin7.3]

First thing to look for is if it has an import stamp on the bottom of the barrel. While it doesn't mean it won't be a good shooter, it will hurt the value.

Otherwise, look for good condition of the barrel (bright, sharp lands and groves, not a lot of damage to the crown) and a stock with no cracks.

The trigger group needs to lock up tight as well.

is there a specific location on the bottom of the barrel that they placed the import stamp? Also the barrel has been replaced at some point, date on the barrel is 11 years newer than the receiver. Does that affect value much? I'm not looking for a collectors gun just one to shoot, but I don't want to pay more than I have to if its not worth it.

 

[indyjohn]

is there a specific location on the bottom of the barrel that they placed the import stamp? Also the barrel has been replaced at some point, date on the barrel is 11 years newer than the receiver. Does that affect value much? I'm not looking for a collectors gun just one to shoot, but I don't want to pay more than I have to if its not worth it.

If you want a shooter and not a collector piece, a newer barrel is GTG, I wouldn't worry too much about "Does it affect value much". Besides, most all Garands have a barrel that is newer than the receiver.

Generally, you shouldn't spend more than $900 on a decent shape Garand shooter. If this is your first Garand and you haven't spent a year studying the make, you shouldn't be spending more than that.

My

 

[jblomenberg16]

Like Indy said, the new barrel isn't an issue, as most garands out there have been arsenal re-barreled in their lifetime. The import stamp is usually on the bottom of the barrel.

The issue is that generally "imported" garands aren't valued as highly since there are so many non-imported garands available due to the CMP program.


There is a rumor (not confirmed) that the "blue sky" imports were hit with a very hard stamp, that caused the barrel to bend.

 

[strokin7.3]

The import stamp is usually on the bottom of the barrel. Close to the reciever?



There is a rumor (not confirmed) that the "blue sky" imports were hit with a very hard stamp, that caused the barrel to bend.

How do you tell the blue sky imports apart from the rest?

 

[jblomenberg16]

How do you tell the blue sky imports apart from the rest?

It will say "Blue Sky". Typically the stamp is up near the end of the barrel so it is visible when the gun is fully assembled.

 

[strokin7.3]

It will say "Blue Sky". Typically the stamp is up near the end of the barrel so it is visible when the gun is fully assembled.

Alright, Thank you much for all your wisdom!

 

[87iroc]

One thing I wish I had paid more attention to is pitting in the stock area. My M1 is a June 44 vintage wtih a 1948 barrel. It then sat in storage in northern Europe for 50 yrs. The wood in all its cosmolene soaked glory absorbed moisture and caused pitting on the receiver that sits down in the wood. Its doesn't look bad when assembled, but I think it probably would have gotten scrapped if CMP had gotten their hands on it.

That said, what others have said. I bought mine as a shooter and like it. Just put about 50 rounds through it today!

 

[jblomenberg16]

You are welcome! I am far from an expert...but have 5 in my collection, so have picked up a thing or two.

If you have pics of it, post up and we can help evaluate.

As long as it is functional, most garands will be very good shooters and you will love it!

 

[strokin7.3]

I'll post some up tomorrow evening

 

[red_zr24x4]

Look up the "tilt test", basically checking to see if the guide rod is bent. You can't just look at the guide rod to see it because it is suppose to have a bend in it a certain direction.
you want a good lock up on the trigger group also, locking the receiver/stock /trigger group in tightly together.
Check the CMP forums for a lot of good info.

 

[karl77]

who made the receiver and what does the serial number start with?

big difference between Springfield armory that the gov't owned and the current Springfield.

 

[racersden]

A couple more things to look for
When the slide is open by the markings there could be
A stamp from Fed Ord El Monte Calif. they imported and
Rebuilt M1's also.
Be very careful to look at receiver lower area for any signs of
Weld marks I have seen a few lately at gun shows that had re welded
Receivers!
Make sure to check throat specs and muzzle specs to make sure barrel
Is not shot out

Glen

 

[in625shooter]

Since you asked. unless your "lead" involves a good friend or super deal. I would recommend forgetting buying any M1 from most folks and go directly through CMP. It seems most people try to sell their CMP Garand for several $$ more than what they are worth (and this was before the December craziness) like they have the first PB and Jelly sandwich or something. Or they got took a hit and are trying to redeem their own loss.

Simply go to CMP and look at their prices and compare that to your "lead" and that will be your answer!

Good Luck!

 

[strokin7.3]

Guy sold it, so I think I may just go the cmp route. Thanks to all for the advice though!

 

[racersden]

It's taking a while thru CMP. Quite a bit of orders to process

 

[indyjohn]

Guy sold it, so I think I may just go the cmp route. Thanks to all for the advice though!

I have a source in central Indiana for quality Garands at reasonable prices. It's where I got mine & spent a lot less than I had planned for a very nice shooter. PM inbound.