CMP Resurrects the M1 Garand Rifle: Creating A “New” Legendary Firearm

The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) has once again pushed some history boundaries by creating and marketing a “new” M1 Garand rifle made from surplus GI parts, some new parts, a new walnut stock and forged receivers and calling it the M1 Garand by CMP.

Yes, it looks just like all the other old Garands but made with some new parts to keep the legendary battle rifle alive with a new heartbeat.
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General George Patton of course is credited during the waning months of WWII calling the M1 Garand the “Greatest Battle Implement Ever Designed.”

The M1 Garand, originally designed by John Garand and adopted by the U.S. military in 1936, was of course America’s battle rifle in World War II and the Korean War. (Even if the Marines hung on to the Springfield bolt actions during the early part of the war.) Known for its reliability, accuracy, and distinctive “ping” sound when the last round is ejected, the rifle has remained a favorite among collectors and shooters alike.

The CMP is nearly as legendary as the M1 Garand itself. Created in 1903 when legislation was signed by President Teddy Roosevelt, to create the National Board for the Promotion of Rifle Practice (NBPRP) (later changed to the CMP) and the National Matches- all with the goal of promoting marksmanship among military and civilian shooters.

Among other things it does to promote marksmanship, the CMP still sells old military surplus rifles like the Garand, M-1 Carbine, 1911 pistols, and ammunition to qualified purchasers via two stores in Ohio and Alabama and online. CMP relies on firearm sales to fund its National Matches, youth competitions, Talladega Marksmanship Park, and JROTC programs. By introducing a commercial production model, CMP ensures that the legacy of the M1 Garand continues while supporting its mission to promote marksmanship and firearm education for over 100 years.

The M1 Garand has always been a sought-after shooter/collector and could be purchased in various grades or conditions. But, like anything else made during WWII or Korea, there were only so many built. Apparently, government surplus stocks have dwindled, and the CMP saw an opportunity to keep the Garand available to the shooting public as originally intended with their charter and are now producing a new line of M1 Garands. The CMP is not announcing they are out of the surplus Garands- but have admitted they don’t have many left.

CMP has never produced a “new” rifle. They have always sold the old surplus government weapons. Now they have partnered with Heritage Arms USA, an Alabama-based manufacturer, to ensure high quality rifles can still be had for collecting, shooting, and competition.

The CMP’s version features a forged receiver, staying true to the original Springfield Armory specifications, and not a cast reproduction. The CMP is claiming this meticulous attention to detail ensures the rifle looks true to spec and shoots with the same reliability and durability which made the M1 Garand a battlefield legend.

Each rifle is chambered in .30-06 Springfield—the original caliber—or it can be had in .308 Winchester. CMP has conducted extensive testing, including thousands of rounds fired at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility, to guarantee performance, reliability, and authenticity… and yes that 8 round clip still goes “ping” when it ejects.

The M1 Garand by CMP is priced at $1,900, with an additional $40 shipping and handling fee per rifle. Each purchase includes a custom-fitted rifle case, ensuring safe transport and storage. Unlike surplus rifles, these commercial models are exempt from the twelve-per-year limit, allowing enthusiasts to acquire multiple units without restriction.

Who is qualified to purchase direct from the CMP?
Reading the rules which apply to purchase from the CMP can seem daunting at first, but taken a bite at a time is not really difficult.

By law, the CMP can sell surplus military firearms, ammunition, parts and other items only to members of CMP affiliated clubs who are also U.S. citizens, over 18 years of age (over 21 years of age in some states) and who are legally eligible to purchase a firearm.

1. To be eligible to purchase a rifle from CMP, you must provide the following: Proof of U.S. Age and Citizenship via birth certificate, passport or gov document showing U.S. Birth. Enhanced Driver’s License are not accepted.
If you use a military ID for citizenship, you must be an E5 or above.

2. You must also be a member of a CMP affiliated organization-you may be surprised you are already a member of an approved group such as Glock GSSF. The CMP has a list of over 2,000 such organizations, many of which cost as little as $25 a year. The CMP store website has an online list of organizations. If you can’t find one near you, the CMP has a help line and you can call them at (256)835-8455 or email CMP Customer Service and they will find one for you.

In addition to shooting clubs, the CMP also has several special affiliates.

3. These special affiliates include Congressionally chartered veterans’ organizations such as the VFW, AL, DAV, MCL, etc., U.S. Military services (active or reserves), National Guard, to include retirees, Professional 501(c)3 law enforcement organizations, and associations such as the FOP, NAPO, NSA, etc., The Garand Collector’s Association is a CMP -Affiliated Club. You can download a Garand Collector’s Association Application Form or by visiting the GCA website.

4. You must provide proof of participation in a marksmanship-related activity or otherwise show familiarity with the safe handling of firearms and range procedures. Your marksmanship related activity does not have to be with high-power rifles; it can be with smallbore rifles, pistols, air guns or shotguns. No proof of marksmanship is required if you are over age 60. Proof of club membership and citizenship is required for all ages. You don’t have to have marksmanship proof if you are just buying ammo, publications or memorabilia.

5. Proof of marksmanship participation can be provided by documenting any of the following:
Current or past military service.
Current or past law enforcement service.
CMP or NRA Classification card.
Participation in a rifle, pistol, air gun or shotgun competition (provide copy of results bulletin).
Completion of a marksmanship clinic that included live fire training (provide a copy of the certificate of completion or a statement from the instructor). Visit http://ct.thecmp.org/app/v1/index.php?do=match&task=search to find an upcoming CMP sanctioned clinic or match.
Distinguished, Instructor, or Coach status.
Concealed Carry License.
Firearms Owner Identification Cards which included live fire training. – FFL or C&R license. (Note: Even an expired C&R license is acceptable to show proof of marksmanship.)
Completion of a Hunter Safety Course that included live fire training.
Certification from range or club official or law enforcement officer witnessing shooting activity. Complete the CMP Marksmanship Form to certify your range firing and the required marksmanship related activity for an individual to purchase from the CMP.

6. Lastly you must of course pass the criminal history background check submitted to the FBI.