I received an email from them today stating that they are currently just now processing mail received on 10-3-11 and it would be 30-60 days before my rifle would be delivered. I am just curious is this normal for the CMP? I'm sure they get a lot of orders and questions, however I am just anxious and want to get my hands on the rifle. How many of the M1s do they have available?
You got the DNB (do not bug) e-mail. A polite way of saying they are processing your order so not to worry, and no need for follow up e-mails and calls (which slows down the process).
All firearm orders say "30-60" days for processing. Sometimes that's true, some times its not. On M1 orders it's based on what other orders they have at the time. Every now and then they release a highly sought after item, like the M1C/D equipment about a year ago, they got swamped and behind on every thing.
Later the same thing happened when they released the 16 inch bayonets. And now, they are just getting the mess cleaned up from offering 1903s. They got more orders then they had rifles. They have to sort the orders by date received. I understand they are pretty much caught up on this.
If you send in your order when there isn't a run on special offerings, you can often get your rifle in two weeks or less.
But fear not, M1s are something they still have lots of. Based on your e-mail from the CMP, you are good to go, just waiting.
To keep track on your order, go to the CMP web site. Go to the "sales" section on click on the "e-store". You register there, you can then keep track on this and any future orders. You'll find an order number listed on your account.
Now go to the CMP Forums, people are constantly keeping track of their orders and posting the status by order number. You can compare your order number with some one who just received their order and get an ideal when your rifle will be shipped.
When you rifle (or other order) is shipped, you will receive another e-mail from the CMP and one from Fed Ex giving you the expected delivery date.
Remember, for rifles and ammo, a signature from an adult is required so make sure some one will be home.
Judging by what's being sold by the CMP right now, I would think you should be receiving your rifle with in a week or two. But again check with others on the CMP forum and see what order number they are processing and shipping.
You'll enjoy your M1, be assured that it will be a quality firearm (they completely go over their guns before they are put up for sale to make sure they are safe and will shoot properly. If for some weird reason, something is wrong, contact them. You'll not find any better customer service anywhere.
Now be warned, when you get your M1, you've fallen into a trap. You're gonna want a bayonet, cartridge belt, sling, and other equipment. Then you'll find another surplus rifle and start all over gathering accessories. Its a disease, and you'll start gathering other surplus military equipment.
Every morning, the first thing you will do is check your CMP E-store account, then check it again several times a day.
I would highly recommend attending a CMP GSM (Garand) Clinic and start shooting Garand and Vintage Military Matches. They are fun matches, and you'll meet several people with similar interest.
