[G.Mason]

I have both, Ruger Mini 14's and M1 Garands. They cost about the same at present.

The M1 Will reach out and "touch" someone. The Mini 14 isn't named the poor mans assault rifle for nothing.

Ammo is also a key to weapons choosing. the .223 is readily available and cheaper than the 30-06. Both are excellent killing machines.

Have you checked CMP?

[fifthvirginia]

I, too, use an M1 Garand for long distance and a 1911-A1 [45 cal. pistol] for the close stuff. I have used both "in the heat of battle" and for target. These two weapons have great hitting power, are very accurate, and are very reliable.

[Jaxter]

I have 6 M-1's that I purchased over the last 7 or 8 years.

2 Springfields
2 H&R's
1 Winchester
1 International Harvester

All of them except for my first Springfield were purchased directly from CMP. I also have a '03A3 (Remington) that I got from them. CMP is also a pretty good source for ammo and accessories. I have the good luck of living in Pittsburgh which is only about 200 miles from the CMP store at Camp Perry.

[FreedomCalls]

The M1 Will reach out and "touch" someone.

If you are shooting someone at a distance, then it no longer is defensive. A rifle is inappropriate for defense in the situation you envisage. Get a handgun and/or a shotgun.

[DryFly]

Who's ready to file a Sherman Act case and take on the CMP as an anti-competitive monopoly?