New to CMP... M1 Carbine Rack Grade or Service Grade

[Stillwater97]

I'm contemplating ordering an M1 Carbine via CMP.

The rack grade rifles are about 100 bucks less than the service grade rifles. Is the price difference worth it, or am I going to get a decent shooter with the rack grade rifle?

I'm not looking for a trophy, but this weapon might be used from time to time in a 3 gun when I'm not shooting my AR. beat up stocks add character, but I want a reliable weapon without sinking a load of dough into.

Thoughts? suggestions? admonishments?..

Thanks

S97

 

[mljdeckard]

I was lucky enough to inherit an Inland in great shape. If it was me, I would get the bottom grade and sent it to Fulton Armory, to have them re-barrel, clean, and replace the springs for about $300. But I would also understand if you think that this would defeat the purpose of getting it in the first place.

 

[shotgunjoel]

For what you're saying, get a rack grade. I've heard that all of their rifles are in better shape than what they say they are. Now I'm hoping to get a service grade carbine this summer from the South Store, but I'd like to get one that looks presentable.

 

[amd6547]

Get the service grade. You will likely still get a dinged stock, but chances of getting a better barrel are very good. Some have gotten rack grades that were hard to tell from a service grade...some haven't.
I got an Inland service grade, and I couldn't be happier. Accurate and reliable.
If there is any way you can swing it, go to one of the stores and pick one out.
They are about to release Bavarian used carbines that are said to be in excellent shape, prices yet to be determined.
Check out the carbine forum on the CMP website...lots of good info there.

 

[Im283]

doesn't field grade come between rack and service grades?

 

[Tinpig]

doesn't field grade come between rack and service grades?

It does in CMP Garands. But they're listing Carbines as either rack or service.

I'd go with the service grade.
For an Inland you'd only pay $76 more for a service grade than for a rack grade. There's every chance that it will be a decent-looking rifle and a good shooter right out of the box.

Tinpig

 

[Threeband]

I'm very happy with my Rack Grade Inland. The bluing is worn, and it came with a dinged up birchwood potbelly stock. I refinished the stock, steamed the dings.

Didn't do anything about the worn bluing.

It shoots great. I took it to the range for the second time on Memorial day, and it puts 5 rounds in one-and-a-half inches at 50 yards. From what I hear, you can't expect much more from any carbine. Also, my eyes have gotten so bad it's scary.

Still, with the CMP, it's luck of the draw. Why not get both? Better yet, get two of each.

 

[1KPerDay]

my rack grade NPM was in great condition. I ordered a service grade inland just for fun; haven't got it yet. I imagine the rack grade came from barrel wear (even though the MW looks good). The finish is very good.