I took both of these rifles out for a day of shooting with some friends. We are all experienced with the Garand, but it was everybody's first time shooting the Johnson. It took some getting used to, but by the end of the day everyone could run the Johnson and Garand through a 24 round course just about equally. I have to say, having tested both of these rifles, I think the Johnson is superior as a service rifle. No gas system to worry about, easier to clean and maintain (just pop the barrel out), and Johnson was smart enough not to put the safety inside the trigger guard.
If I was going into battle, I would choose the Johnson over the Garand. What say you? Which would you rather have?