Interest in M1a/M14... resources?

[DrjonesUSA]

Just get a Springfield Armory M1A, in whatever color & barrel length you prefer.

I do not believe that there are any reputable manufacturers putting out a quality product anywhere near or under your desired price point of $1,500.00, other than Springfield.

Pretty sure LRB, Fulton, and whoever else (SEI maybe?) makes M1As, are all well north of $2k.

Springfield makes a damn fine firearm. I did a ton of research also before buying mine years ago & not only did I end up with a Springfield, I may have bought a couple more.

Also, JMO, I'd start with the base model (Standard) or MAYBE the Loaded. Just gives you a good feel for the gun and you can always upgrade parts & such later, or just buy one of the higher end models later - and you will want more than one.

Even the Standard / base model will outshoot probably 90% of us here.

Good luck.



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[NoHeavyHitter]

When it comes to making upgrades, I'll say that Sadlak makes some of the best quality upgrade parts available for the M1a. Their recoil spring guide is well worthwhile IMHO. While the Socom is sexy and nimble, I just think that a .308 is going to perform best with a barrel that is at least 18-inches like the scout.

I bought one of the standard models and wish I'd have dropped the extra money for a "loaded" model. It took more tinkering as well as handloads for me to get the performance I wanted compared to other rifles I own.

[DrjonesUSA]

When it comes to making upgrades, I'll say that Sadlak makes some of the best quality upgrade parts available for the M1a. Their recoil spring guide is well worthwhile IMHO. While the Socom is sexy and nimble, I just think that a .308 is going to perform best with a barrel that is at least 18-inches like the scout.

I bought one of the standard models and wish I'd have dropped the extra money for a "loaded" model. It took more tinkering as well as handloads for me to get the performance I wanted compared to other rifles I own.

I agree with all of this.

[FeuerFrei]

The difference in accuracy and performance between my scout and socom 16" is undefined. They both shoot the same with the same ammo. (surplus German DAG) The socom is a bit more handy to swing/carry but it'll hold it's own with the scout any day. That's my mileage anyway.

Neither one required any trips back to SA for anything.
Hell I shoot lots of wolf ammo through both of them and they keep on banging away.

Proper care and maintenance is key. Owner's manuals are CRAP!

[dozer wright]

This is why you need a life time warranty. Less than 500 rds

[Spyder]

More info here than you will ever need.

https://m14forum.com/forums.php