December 10, 2022. To recognize those who consistently score well at the John C. Garand Match, As-Issued M1 Rifles competitions, Garand Collectors Association has created a new GCA Master Marksman Program. It will be launched in January 2023. The new addition, which will be similar to the CMP’s established Distinguished Badge Program (CMP), will work on an Achievement Award system. It is based on performance in designated CMP events. A competitor must be a current GCA member to participate. Individuals can also register on the GCA website to join the match day. Only As-Issued M1 Garands can be used. “The GCA is grateful for a cooperative association avec the CMP, who’s administrative efforts are essential to making this new award a reality,” stated the GCA in a statement.
Production of M1 Garand Springfield Armory July 1941. Shinnosuke Tanaka, Facebook photo
The 2023 Western Games in Phoenix, March will award the Master Marksman points.
Annual events that feature GCA point competitions include: CMP Western Games (Arizona), March 10-19, 2023
CMP Eastern Games (North Carolina), April 28-May 7, 2023
CMP D-Day (Alabama) – June 6-11, 2023
CMP National Matches Ohio – July 2023
CMP New England Games (Vermont), September 16-24, 2023
CMP Talladega 600, Alabama – November 2023 Competition Rules for the John C. Garand Match Course A: 30 rounds. These rules will be as per the CMP Games Rifle and Pistol Competition Rulebook. Only those who participate in re-entry events can use their highest score as points. Points will be awarded according to cut scores. They will be presented in the following formats: gold (10 pts. ), silver (8 pts. Bronze (6 pts), and gold (10 pts.) levels. Competitors must score a total 40 points, with one gold and one additional silver. All other points can be bronze or higher. About the Garand Collectors Association
The GCA and its members have been working hard since 1986 to increase knowledge about the M1 Garand, preserve its history, and encourage others to collect the historical rifle. Since 2000, the GCA has worked closely with CMP to sort/grade M1 Garand rifles. This was done in order to encourage recreational and competitive firearm safety. TheGCA.org has more information. The GCA will continue to donate generously to the Master Marksman Program winners, outside of the John C. Garand Matches.
