Although Nomad's garand model is a beautiful model, and I have used it since at least 3.0, I find that is it not the most realistic model of a garand in that it seems a little too fat. As of now, the default 1.0 garand is the most realistic looking one IMO. I say this because I have handled and examined my dad's M1 garand, so I figure I'm not just talking out my ass here :).

Anyway, my actual request is that someone please reskin the default garand model, or even take it one step further and remesh it to accept 512x512 textures. If that is too much trouble, just a plain reskin will be fine :D

Capt glimsharp released a reanimated default garand. That's the best i can do to help. I don't know of any other garand models that are still around, and all i have on my hard drive is default and nomad/slinky/poly/yadda.
On the second part, I'm sure someone has reskinned the default model with 512 textures. Ask around.