Jim,
The U.S. BATFE has ruled that ex-military barrels are not to be imported. No new requests are being approved for import, and all previously approved requests must enter the country before the end of 2005. But on the other hand , ex-U.S. Military arms are going to be allowed back in, so the FAL/L1A1 are going to become more expensive with U.S. made barrels and the M1 Garands are going to come down in price from what ODCMP [currently] sells them for.
Current CMP prices are as follows:
1. Ex-Greek used “Service Grade” (ok to return to service from depot grade) M1 Garand from $500-550 + S/H and qualification (DD214 or match participation)
2. Ex-Greek/non-Greek used “Field Grade” (okay to remain in field usage grade) M1 Garand at $375
BATFE Web Page References:
On the Import Ban: http://www.atf.treas.gov/firearms/071305openletter.htm
Extension on Current Import Licenses Until the End of 2005: http://www.atf.treas.gov/firearms/081205openletter.pdf
U.S. Military Arsenal Manufactured Rifles Now Importable: http://www.atf.treas.gov/firearms/071205openletter.pdf
– R.D.