Advice requested on this CMP M1 Garand grade

[KILTED COWBOY]

Been looking at buying a M1 Garand from CMP.
Got on their email list and they just sent me notification that some rifles are now available in a Special Rack Grade a bit different from their standard Rack Grade.
I have been saving up for one in their Special Grade which goes for $1050.00.
It is completely refurbished, original receiver refinished new barrel, new walnut stock new handguard and a sling . All parts refurbished.
This Special rack Grade which goes for $650.00 has a refinished receiver, new barrel, new stock new handguard and sling. All other parts are not refurbished or refinished and the receiver will have some heavy pitting above the wood line.
$400.00 difference. I have not bought anything from CMP I know it can be somewhat of a crap shoot what you get.
Do you think it is worth the savings or just wait till I have enough for the completely refurbished rifle.
I want a good shooter, not so much interested in a beautiful new out of the box looking rifle.
Any advice from those who have done business with CMP will be appreciated.

[jak]

If you want a shooter and don't care about the looks, then the Special Rack Grade for $650 is the way to go. If you think about it, in the Regular Special Grade you would be paying $400 more for a bunch of parts that are reparked and some of those parts you don't even see. You just have a nicer looking rifle. Also buying the Regular Special Grade does not guarantee that you would not get an out-of-spec part. If you happen to get a bad part, contact CMP customer service and they will replace it. The heavy exterior pitting does not affect accuracy. CMP just advertises the worst case scenario to cover their behind. If you are still unsure then just keep checking the CMP forums because someone will post pictures of their Rack Grade Special and you can judge for yourself.

[David Milisock]

$400 buys a great deal of range time, just a shooters opinion. Do some research and get Garand ammo or reload Garand ammo.

[Smokey]

The new criterion barrels and new wood generally result in a good shooting rifle. I have a "regular" special, and it was essentially a brand new Garand. It's now my favorite rifle and gets continual use.