Great Surprise!

March 7, 2017

Civilian Marksmanship Program▸General▸Great Surprise!

I received the CMP Special Field Grade (30-06) M1 Grand I ordered at noon on February 22, 2017 via FedEx. This was a pleasant surprise, and unexpected, as I had sent my order forms in the standard delivery mail February 13th.  A ten day turnaround!   I had expected a wait of three to four weeks at least.  Kudos to the CMP receiving, sales, and shipping departments.

An even greater surprise was the condition of this Springfield Armory #362XXXX serial receiver, NO PITTING ABOVE THE WOOD LINE, and a later issue SA bolt.  The new wood, barrel, and refinishing reflected the care given to revitalizing this classic American rifle by the CMP Staff.

I was first introduced to the M1 Grand as a 17 year old Army recruit at Fort Ord, CA in February of 1959, where I learned to shoot, clean, and carry this piece of weapon history with confidence until I was issued an M14 in 1961 in Berlin, Germany.  The M14 never quite replaced the venerable M1 Grand.  Thank you for providing the unparalleled opportunity for me to enjoy handling and firing the M1 again after 58 years.

Respectfully,