Coming in on the FAL side of the argument, I'd also point out that the field-adjustable gas system can be a life-saver if you're really running through the ammo. When there's no time to clean a battle-fouled rifle, the adjustable gas system will allow you to put rounds down range for a while longer.
General take - a well set-up M14 shoots like a dream, but the economics of it make it a pricey item. Used to own an HK91 - shot really well, but it did tend to beat me up, recoil-wise. Also, that delayed roller block assembly can be a royal bitch to contend with when you're trying to clean the rifle out in the field and under some pressure. The FALs I have shot way better than I can, and I could and did afford two of them (plus another kit for spares) for the price of a nicely turned out Springfield Armory M14.
Another StG 58 FAL note - after about 60-80 rounds or so, it does tend to get a bit hot around the foregrip. GLoves of some sort are a good idea for any battle kit.
As harpseal used to say, "Stay well, stay safe, stay armed."
It ain't over yet, not by a long shot.
That being said, you know I own a really cherry National Match Springfield and I don't think there's anything in the world firearm wise I would take in trade. (OK, maybe there are one or two things, but I'd make damn sure I got the better end of the deal....you know a .50 cal or something.)
Mulder wants a battle rifle that he can bet his life on so I gather. If he has a budget of 3 large or so, and he has no problem lugging a 14 pound rifle around the M1A is the way to go.
However, if his (or her, I don't really know) budget is around 1000 US or so he or she couldn't do better than and FN-FAL clone. Either one is reliable as the day is long. Both are capable of amazing accuracy when properly tuned and equipped. In either case friend Mulder will never look into his or her 'toybox' and say "God, I wish I hadn't bought that."
In fact now that the AWB has sunsetted, I intend to build myself an FN or two. It's just too easy not to try it. And, the way I look at it there's not really any downside.
Even if I completely screw up I'll end up with a reasonably serviceable FN.
Now; you and I need to hook up 'offline'. That batch of sparkling mead I told you about is done and it is indeed a wonderful thing to behold.
Give me a jingle when you have time. I have one bottle hidden with your name on it and believe me, if folks around here find out I'm holding out on them things could get ugly.
My neighbor told me that if he ever found himself in prison facing a death sentence and he was asked for his last meal the first thing he would put on his list is a bottle of Lurkers Sparkling Blueberry Mead.
So give me a call to set up shipping. Then, find somewhere to send the kids for the evening. You and Mrs N can pop the cork in a style befitting your status.
Don't worry, you can thank me later. LOL.
L