“I’d like one of those M-1 Garands”
Just emptied a clip on Monday from a Buddies M-1. Very accurate gun out to 70 yards with Iron Sites. Too fricking heavy for now days.
When the Marines first arrived at the Front in WWI, the Germans moved within 100 yards and began setting up camp for the evening. Naturally, the Marines began picking them off, probably with the 30-06 1903 Springfield with iron sights.
So the Germans moved back 100 yards and started to set up camp. Marines resumed fire. The Germans kept moving back until, at 600 yards, the Marines gave it a rest.
With the M-14 (yeah, I know, 7.62 vs 30-06, but similar performance) I put 7 of 10 rounds in a 12 inch bull from 200 yds, Standing and also 7 of 10 in a 20 inch bull from 500 yards, Prone - all with iron sights.
As to weight of the weapon - that is not the issue. The weight of the ammo is what makes the biggest difference. In Vietnam I carried 500 rounds of 5.56 - as field radio operator. 500 rounds of 7.62 or 30-06 weighs about twice as much as 5.56.