- Civilian Marksmanship Program

September 26, 2019

I want to thank the four individuals that I had the opportunity to work with at CMP for their assistance. Being new to CMP’s policies, procedures, services and facilities; I had no idea what to expect! When I received the e-mail announcing the availability to purchase a M1 Garand for $650 bucks, I thought first; “yea, junk, rusted leftover crap.” It wasn’t! It was and is beautiful, new Walnut stock, new Barrel, and refinished M1 Garand CMP Special Rack Grade Rifle.

Before going I saw the pictures on their web site of both a facility outside and the inside. I saw the racks of rifles and products on the wall racks. I anticipated a HUGE facility with automated Ka-Chunkata machines all over. I expected pick a number, get in line cold nurtured policy, crowds the size of a woman’s sell-out of 70% off bras and purses magnitude! Something close to having to wear a football uniform or expect serious damage to self over 10 rifles by 100 people!

What I got was personal, individual care, guidance immersed deep with a great deal of product wisdom, and even some laughter. Though I went to finally get a rifle I could afford, regardless of condition 50 years after qualifying Expert at Fort Polk in 1968 with one. What I knew was I was leaving with “something” regardless of condition for my 50th wedding anniversary present to self! I received one of the neatest pieces of mixed history from 1943 on. What I received was a Garand that was in great shape, little pitting (huge craters to real collectors); that was beautiful almost bringing tears to this old guys eyes.

The people that I dealt with, three guys and a Lady; were fantastic. I really appreciate all their assistance, advise, direction and insight! They made an old man happy. I now have something that’s not a collector item, reasonably priced, that will be a shooter; and I can still pass down history to my Grand kids!

Thank you,