If you can find one I would recommend an 03A3 WW11 issue Springfield. I also have a Garand but shoot the bolt action a lot more often then the M1. Of all my military rifles it's probably my most accurate cast bullet shooter. It has shot groups as small as a inch and a half with issue sights at 100 yds. When purchased quite a few years ago the original barrel was not in great condition. Luckily I came across a brand new 2 groove barrel which it wears now.
This is not a common rifle in Canada but you might find a good one for little more than half the price of a decent Garand. A 1903 Springfield is another option. I have had no experience with them but have read good things about later production rifles.