raymond wrote:Didn't see many run of the mill Garands. Did see a table with 6 different collector grade ones with all correct parts, matching numbers etc. Priced from 1800 to 3600 and all included origin papers. The friend I went with scored a really nice condition Winchester P17 for 600.
Raymond, If you see that many on one table, beware. It is not hard to fake CMP paperwork (FWIW, the DCM NEVER sold M1s by "grade"), but there are things to look for. I would not recommend buying a "collector grade" M1 unless you could get the serial number from the seller, then send a serial number request to the CMP. They will research what grade that rifle sold, and you will know for sure. There are at least a couple of guys who are faking "Collector Grade" CMP rifles. They are starting to be outed.
Whenever I purchased a "Correct" grade at the North Store, I would have one of the guys working there assist me. I scored a few that should have been "Collector" grade, for a few less bucks.
Same for M1C sniper rifles, Navy Presentation rifles. There are a couple of guys who track the serial numbers on those and can verify if what you are buying is a fake, or legitimate.
If you ever see one you are interested in I would be happy to offer an opinion if it would help.