PINGi3,
Did you ever find out what the exact problem with your G3 was? I ask because I am also guilty of lusting over one of the old "Congo Carbine Rifles" with the FAC aluminum receiver and long "can" on end of 16" barrel. I have already been very sternly lectured by Gunplumber after I made the mistake of asking his opinion.(whew!)
I had a post last weekend over on FAL Files, "Decisions-G3 or Cetme". Harlan of FAC posted about them doing a torture test on this receiver before releasing it on market and said "it held up very well".
Anyway, I know what you mean about Century. I also had/have same concerns. Gunplumber (www.arizonaresponsesystems.com) has the authentic HK's for sale. If you can afford one of these, I'm sure it is the way to go. Many people (like me),unfortunately, simply do not have that much money available. So, my reasoning is, which may be questionable, buy the Century now and then later, when budget permits, either tweek it yourself or have it professionaly done by good "smith", which is what I plan to do.
About the stamped CIA receiver, I am also curious about them, but on the latest CETME's.
I'm sorry I wasn't of any help on the original question.
slider