lets talk m1a which would you choose

[mms]

So I think with my tax return I want to purchase an m1a, but I really cant decide which one.

price is not the driving factor. lets say that they cost the same just for argument sake

option 1 the regular m1a spring field, green or black synthetic stock and 22” barrel


option 2 m1a socom 16


I don’t plan to run optics, the longest range that I have to shoot is 200 yards, that being said I have lots of guns that shoot that so the ability to shoot farther would be cool but not often if ever used

So which would you pick

more or less does any one have personal experiace with both that could lend some pro's and con's

 

[red_zr24x4]

My brother has the socom, a friend has a full length in wood stock, I'd go with the full length.

 

[mms]

can i ask what the reason is ?

 

[8th SPS USAF]

M1A

I bought a M1A full size, sent it in to replace the bbl with the shortest
legal bbl, then the Socom came out. Wish I would have waited.
I put a MB on it. Shot great, loud though. I like short bbls.

 

[USMC_0311]

My dream M1A would be the "M25 White Feather". Some one had one for sale here on INGO for about 4000 or so. If I had the money right now new I would get the Super match.

 

[EvilElmo]

If it were me making the choice I'd go for the "scout" option with the 18" barrel, but I'm interested in a general purposes rifle in 308. For that role I think the 18" barrel is the way to go.

 

[Lock n Load]

If it were me making the choice I'd go for the "scout" option with the 18" barrel, but I'm interested in a general purposes rifle in 308. For that role I think the 18" barrel is the way to go.

My advice too, especially if you were to only own one M1A.... yeah right !!! See avatar !!!

Also the 18.5" Scout/ Bush rifle is usually more accurate than the 22" standard out to 200-300 yards. We had a very lengthy test and discussion over at M14TFL on the different barrel lengths and accuracy.

There was also a test in a gun mag where they cut down barrels an inch at a time (from 22", 24" & 26"), recrowned and test fired. They had the same conclusions that 18" or w/in an inch was a magic length....

Here are a few of mine including a Bush rifle (Scout that was neutered/ scope rail removed):

 

[nmcampbe]

Go with the scout/squad model(18" barrel). They are very reasonably priced now and I am sure you can pick one up at the 1500 this month. In my opinion the socom's muzzle blast makes it not fun to shoot. It is amazing what two more inches will do to tame things down. If you don't want the forward mount on the scout/squad you can take it off, sell it for $50-60 and replace with a vented hand guard. Thats my .

 

[Fireaxes]

Scout or full size. I love my full size and if I ever get another one it will be a Scout.

 

[snowman]

SOCOM, that's all I have to say

 

[sporter]

A full size first...

 

[red_zr24x4]

can i ask what the reason is ?

Mostly just personal preference, but the scout is louder. Both are fine rifles

 

[mms]

well thanks for the imput seems like is all split down the middle.

im leaning twords full size, noise being my main reason, for loud i already have an sbr

 

[paramed60]

Back in the day I was trained by Uncle with the full size (M14) still like the longer traditional look. I have to agree with the 18" barrel though, research says it all. Enjoy it what ever you buy.

 

[kedie]

Also the 18.5" Scout/ Bush rifle is usually more accurate than the 22" standard out to 200-300 yards. We had a very lengthy test and discussion over at M14TFL on the different barrel lengths and accuracy.

There was also a test in a gun mag where they cut down barrels an inch at a time (from 22", 24" & 26"), recrowned and test fired. They had the same conclusions that 18" or w/in an inch was a magic length....

Interesting. How about beyond 300?

 

[Lock n Load]

well thanks for the imput seems like is all split down the middle.

im leaning twords full size, noise being my main reason, for loud i already have an sbr

Replace the muzzle break with a standard FH, but w/out the lug.... easier to remove the gas plug with the shortened length at the gas system and end of the barrel.

Everything is louder w/ MB !!!!

 

[Lock n Load]

Interesting. How about beyond 300?

The article only went to 300 yds and most us guys shot 100-200 yds so.... I believe one guy shot at 500 yds but it was so windy it was pretty close to even among his rifles.

 

[Colt556]

I've owned everything from the SOCOM up to Super Match. For just pure fun the SOCOM was by far the best and most fun. But in terms of accuracy the SM was the tops. A standard Loaded rifle would be my recommendation. The Scout is pretty handy as well. I really miss my SOCOM but I let a certain Monkey talk me out of it!

 

[Lock n Load]

I've owned everything from the SOCOM up to Super Match. For just pure fun the SOCOM was by far the best and most fun. But in terms of accuracy the SM was the tops. A standard Loaded rifle would be my recommendation. The Scout is pretty handy as well. I really miss my SOCOM but I let a certain Monkey talk me out of it!

Was this Monkey from Indy???

A Std. Loaded model is probably the best buy in M1As (at least new).

I was also going to suggest that the OP checked out the M14Forum for rifles there. Alot of rifles sell with USGI components for less than a new one will run.

 

[irishfan]

So I think with my tax return I want to purchase an m1a, but I really cant decide which one.

price is not the driving factor. lets say that they cost the same just for argument sake

option 1 the regular m1a spring field, green or black synthetic stock and 22” barrel


option 2 m1a socom 16


I don’t plan to run optics, the longest range that I have to shoot is 200 yards, that being said I have lots of guns that shoot that so the ability to shoot farther would be cool but not often if ever used

So which would you pick

more or less does any one have personal experiace with both that could lend some pro's and con's

I have had the standard size M1A and the Scout Squad and have handled the Socom. I prefer the standard M1A the most and love it with open sights. The scout squad is also great and may be a good compromise for you if you aren't sure about the standard or socom. No matter which you choose they are all amazing rifles and an awesome platform.