CMP M1 Garand

[joshuamalezi]

I would like to get an M1 Garand from the CMP.  I occasionally shoot CMP matches at my gun club and always use on of the club's M1s. They are in ok condition, but are pretty worn. I don't feel they are shooting as well as I am capable of shooting. I'm no marksman, but I'm decent.
    The CMP is running out of M1s, especially the cheaper rack and service grades. But, thats ok, because I have my eyes set on the CMP special grade. It is a vintage H&R reciever with a new Criterion barrel, new stock and handguards, and some refurbished/ new parts. I'm not hung up on everything being vintage and original because I want to shoot it and i want it to shoot well.
    Now, the big question. The CMP Special grade is offered in the traditional 30-06 or 308. I reload, so I will be making most of my own ammo. What's the pros and cons of either caliber for the M1? I suspect the 308 may be slightly more accurate. But, I'm not really sure about that considering bullet weight and power needed to run a M1 properly. Is there any other advantage to the 308? Also, it's worth noting that I already have a couple hundred 30-06 brass sitting around.
    If anyone has experience with this particular rifle, what's your thoughts?
http://www.thecmp.org/Sales/m1garand.htm

[The_Shadow]

If you weren't a handloader I'd say go for the .308WIN, as there are more commercial loads available, even Military Surplus stuff.  30'06 is not as popular as years past, but they run a less pressure than the .308's and can actually be a better choice with some bullet weights.

Though frequently compared to it, the 308 cannot match the performance of the 30-06. The difference between the two, however, is insignificant unless bullets of 180 grains or heavier are discussed. The 30-06's greater capacity and ability to use slower powders give it an undeniable edge.

Have you looked at the Garand Forum for any info and facts? http://garandforum.proboards.com/

30'06 loadings for Garand http://web.archive.org/web/20000620055732/home.att.net/~Masterpo/M1load.htm

some .308 info here but may not be for the Garand's http://www.accurateshooter.com/cartridge-guides/308win/

[joshuamalezi]

Thanks for the links, Shadow. The M1 forum looks quite extensive. I'll have to spend some time combing through it. I'm probably leaning toward the 30-06 just because I have a ton of brass from my hunting rifles and from shooting CMP competitions.  The guy who runs the CMP shoots at my club says he'll help me submit my paperwork and documents to get the ball rolling. I just need to get my money together. Maybe sell a gun or two. Plus my 40th birthday is in November. I'll get my girlfriend and family to pitch in. I'm hoping. I've wanted an M1 for so long and I'm going to make it happen. Like I did for a 10mm this year.

[EdMc]

No personal experience other than carrying one around through 3 years of high school ROTC. Later I trained with a M-14 in Army basic training. The Garand was designed and manufactured to use the 30/06 cartridge. I know they have been converted to 308 for other reasons but it just doesn't seem 'right'. Just my opinion.
Your money, your choice.