civilian marksmanship program
February 14, 2025

How to Buy Surplus Firearms from the Civilian Marksmanship Program

The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) is a government-chartered organization dedicated to promoting firearm safety and marksmanship training among civilians. One of its most notable programs allows eligible individuals to purchase surplus military firearms, primarily M1 Garands, M1911 pistols, and other historical firearms. If you are interested in acquiring a surplus firearm through the Civilian Marksmanship Program, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.

Understanding the Civilian Marksmanship Program

Before diving into the purchasing process, it’s essential to understand what the Civilian Marksmanship Program is and why it exists. The CMP was originally established by the U.S. government in 1903 to help civilians develop rifle marksmanship skills. Today, it operates as a non-profit organization that sells surplus military firearms to eligible U.S. citizens while also conducting marksmanship training programs and competitions nationwide.

The surplus firearms available through the CMP are primarily historic weapons that were previously used by the U.S. military. These include:

  • M1 Garand rifles
  • M1903 Springfield rifles
  • M1911 pistols
  • M1 Carbines (limited availability)

Why Buy from the CMP?

Purchasing from the Civilian Marksmanship Program offers several benefits:

  • Legitimate Source – All firearms are inspected and authenticated by the CMP.
  • Historical Value – These are authentic U.S. military surplus weapons.
  • Fair Pricing – Prices are competitive and often lower than private sales.
  • Support for Firearm Education – Proceeds help fund firearm safety and marksmanship training programs.

Step-by-Step Guide to Purchasing from the CMP

1. Check Your Eligibility

Not everyone can buy a firearm from the CMP. You must meet the following requirements:

  • U.S. Citizenship – Only U.S. citizens can purchase CMP firearms.
  • Age Requirement – You must be at least 18 years old for rifles and 21 years old for pistols.
  • Membership in a CMP-Affiliated Club – You must be a member of a CMP-affiliated shooting club or organization. A list of affiliated clubs is available on the CMP website.
  • Firearm Training or Marksmanship Activity – You must provide proof of marksmanship training or participation in a shooting event. Acceptable proofs include:
    • Military or law enforcement training
    • Participation in a shooting match
    • Hunter safety course certificate
    • Concealed carry permit
  • Background Check – You must pass a background check similar to the one required for purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer.

2. Choose Your Firearm

CMP firearms are categorized based on their condition:

  • Service Grade – Good condition, suitable for shooting and collecting.
  • Field Grade – Fair condition, may have more wear but still functional.
  • Rack Grade – Lower condition, may require repairs.
  • Collector Grade – Excellent condition, ideal for collectors.
  • Special Grade – Fully refurbished and re-barreled.

Each category has different pricing, so consider your intended use when selecting a firearm.

3. Complete the Required Paperwork

You need to fill out the CMP Order Packet, which includes:

  • Order Form – Specify the firearm you want to purchase.
  • Proof of Citizenship – A copy of your birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued ID.
  • Club Membership Proof – A membership card or letter from a CMP-affiliated club.
  • Marksmanship Proof – Documents showing your participation in a shooting event or training.
  • Background Check Consent – CMP will conduct a NICS background check before approving the purchase.

5. Wait for Approval and Processing

After submission, the CMP will review your application. This process can take several weeks due to high demand. Once approved, you will receive a confirmation, and your firearm will be prepared for shipment.

6. Receive Your Firearm

CMP firearms are shipped directly to your home if you meet all federal and state legal requirements. Unlike typical firearm purchases, CMP transactions do not require transfer through a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer for rifles, though handguns must be sent to an FFL for pickup.

Additional Tips for Buying from the CMP

  • Monitor Availability – CMP stock changes regularly, so check their website frequently for updates.
  • Be Prepared for a Waitlist – Some firearms, especially M1 Garands and M1911s, are in high demand and may require joining a waitlist.
  • Consider Visiting a CMP Store – If you prefer to inspect a firearm in person, you can visit one of the CMP’s physical store locations.
  • Follow CMP Announcements – CMP occasionally releases limited batches of rare firearms, so staying informed can help you secure a special piece.

Conclusion

Buying a surplus firearm from the Civilian Marksmanship Program is a great way to own a piece of military history while supporting firearm education and training. By following the outlined steps, ensuring you meet the eligibility requirements, and submitting a complete application, you can successfully purchase a high-quality surplus firearm. Whether you’re a collector, competitor, or enthusiast, the CMP offers a unique opportunity to acquire historically significant firearms at fair prices.