I had joined the local police dept (in 1978) and I got interested in all kinds of firearms. Somewhere along the line, I saw that the DCM was offering genuine US Garands direct from the US military. But, there was a catch. Yup, besides paperwork you had to participate in real match shooting competition. Range shooting was not acceptable to qualify.
I had already built an M1a from a parts kit and so, I thought I was ready. OK, Ok, ok....I also bought some other small stuff (spotting scope, shooting mat, log book, padded coat and glove) to make my first match experience go smoother.
After shooting in 2 matches (120 rds total) at the USMC rifle range at Ewa Beach, I was eligible. IIRC, the required paperwork included an application, proof of citizenship, proof of affiliated club membership, fingerprint cards, a notary letter IDing myself and a statement that I was buying the rifle for the purpose of match shooting. At that time it was $94.30 ($121.96 total - shipped to Hawaii). BTW, back then you could only get one rifle for your lifetime. It was "the luck of the draw" when it came to manufacturer and condition. Anyway, the paperwork package was completed and sent via snail mail to the old DCM. That was in 1984.
It would take months later before I received it. It felt like Christmas to open the box. My waiting was rewarded with an IHC......WOW! I say WOW now.....but, back then I wanted an SA. I didn't know any better.
Speaking of not knowing any better. I modified that IHC into my match rilfe. OMG! And, there would be other mistakes too. Anyway, since that first Garand I've ordered many more through the new CMP.
I've managed to hold on to these.
Aloha, Mark
