The M1 as a Minuteman Rifle

Let's review the M1 Garand and M1A as a Minuteman Rifle.

As pictured, the M1 has an 8-round enbloc clip ready, as well as six pockets in the bandolier, each with an 8-round enbloc clip. That's 56 total rounds. Fewer than any other in the category.

An M1A would have a 20-round box magazine. A bandolier holding several other mags would be fairly easy to purchase.

The ideal Minuteman Rifle (MR) is an AR15. A distant, but distinct second, is the AK47.
Here's how the M1 and M1A stack up to those rifles:

Capacity:
M1 - low. Only 8 rounds at a time.
M1A - decent. 20-round mags are normal.

Reloading:
M1 - slow. Sustained fire might get up to 30-40 rounds per minute for an expert.
M1A - better. Comparable to an AK.

Accuracy:
Better than the AK47. Not as good as an AR15.
M1 - 4 MOA as an average. Maybe better if you have a better barrel or some work done on it.
M1A - 3 MOA as an average. Can get close to 1 MOA, but they get really finicky. 

Weight: 
At 11+ pounds, the M1 and M1A are the heavyweights of the division.

Cost:

M1 - about $650+ from the CMP. Not bad. Not good.
M1A - $1000+++ These can get expensive. Worst in the group.

Reliability:

Very good on both models unless it is a match grade M1A

Range:
The M1 shoots the venerable .30-06. this round is good to over 800 meters.
The M1A shoots the .308. Although the .30-06 can potentially be loaded hotter, the M1 cannot shoot those rounds. The M1A has confirmed kills beyond 1000 meters. 

Magazines / clips:
M1 - enbloc clips are not expensive, but can be hard to find.
M1A mags are a bit expensive, but no more than an AK mag. Probably a bit easier to find.

Upgrades:
M1 - DON'T!
M1A - DO!


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