I have always liked the M1 Carbine, but the .30 Carbine round is kind of small (I like big rounds in general).
However, last year when the CMP (Civilian Marksmanship Program) had some government surplus and the wait was approximated at 6 months I decided to buy one.

Why? Because I was purchasing a piece of U.S. history, supporting youth firearms training, purchasing a limited supply rifle/program, and getting a great rifle!

In addition to the history/collectibility I figured its small size/weight would make a great rifle for my wife. Not so crazy, as for the first range trip my wife and others found it a pleasure and fun to shoot!

I put together my paperwork and rejoined the GCA (Garand Collectors Club) and got my Inland Service Grade in 2 months (not bad!) Definitely not for the impatient however.

Here are some pics, straight off the delivery truck:

Some (attempted) closeups:

If I had the extra $ I would definitely get another! For those interested, please visit ODCMP.COM, the paperwork looks worse than it really is.