US M1 Garand Type 2 National Match

I won't even begin to pretend I know about Garands. Instead, start here. This particular rifle is either a very carefully assembled replica, or an original DCM gun which has lost its papers. Its serial number, as best I understand, is in the correct range. The lack of paperwork represented a big savings, so no complaints. I bought it while looking for a replacement for my shooter Garand. However, it turns out to be in such nice shape, on the off chance its legitimate, I haven't shot it. Rats!

US M1 Garand (H&R)

They say a Marine never forgets his rifle. In my father's case, apparently, that rule didn't apply. Some years ago he offered to finance the purchase of an M1. Upon showing him the purchased rifle, he professed zero recollection of the Garand. Ouch. He did, however, give me his Garand tool which he had kept through all the years. Fast forward a couple decades and it was time to upgrade the ole shooter. This H&R built gun is perhaps a little nice to be considered a shooter, but it doesn't get that many rounds through it. As mentioned above, I'm not expert enough to confidently state which parts are likely original, and which were added to make the gun "correct." Of the few H&R recievers I have encountered, they have always looked well made.

The "Russian Garand" proved too fragile in combat to live up to its American counterpart. No further developments were fielded as events overtook the design. The Simonov, and more importantly, the Kalashnikov represented the future of Russian combat rifles. For a brief time, arsenal refinished Tokarevs such as this were available to US collectors. Although prices have risen, the SVT is an enjoyable rifle. The only problem I have experienced is my choice of 150 gr. IMI FMJBT bullets tend to catch the edge of the barrel and jam. On second thought, I'd rather carry an M1 into combat. Notice how much longer the Tokarev's action is compared to the M1. This in spite of the fact the two cartridges are of similar power.

Smith & Wesson Light Rifle Model 1940 MkI

In its rush to acquire weapons for the coming conflict, the British government contracted Smith & Wesson to design a short barreled, semiautomatic, pistol caliber carbine. Designed around a standard US 9mm Parabelum cartridge, initial British trials proved the action unsuitable for a special high pressure 9mm cartridge the British wanted to use. Although a strengthened MkII version was produced, the program was ultimately canceled and the bulk of rifles produced were disposed of by the British. A small number of rifles remained in the US and sat languishing until they finally received a C&R designation and were sold off through a dealer in Atlanta.

In light of the existence of the German MP38/40 series sub machine-guns, it is unlikely this ungainly, under powered and somewhat heavy rifle would have been well suited to combat. Features of the gun include a fluted 9.75" barrel and 20 round magazine. The magazine is housed in the combination grip/extended ejection port under the rifle. It fires from an open bolt. Finish quality is that of a fine hunting rifle, and the stock is made from an interesting early plastic or composite material (tenonite). I would love to fire this gun, but its condition is just a little too pristine and replacement parts probably don't exist.

S&W Authentication Letter pg 1 | pg 2 | pg 3