I qualified expert with the M-14 rifle during basic. I marveled at the ease with which I could knock down a man size pop up target at 400 yards. The semi auto recoil is not bad at all. It is a great semi-auto battle rifle. But when you switch that piece to full auto, then it becomes an anti-aircraft gun after 2 rounds. The cartridge has too much power for the rifle’s weight on full auto.
The M1A is not shipped with a bayonet lug, but that is easily corrected by installing a pre assault weapon ban flash supressor. Early M1A receivers were made from surplus M14 receiver blanks, current M1A receivers are made from precision investment cast AISI 8620 alloy steel. The military M14 receivers were manufactured using the drop forge process, which is more complicated and more expensive. M1A’s lack a provision to mount the disconnector and selector lever, and the stock inletting for same. Oher than that I know of no substantive differences between the M-14 and the M-1A.
You got an excellent rifle there. Its a keeper.
Thank you DMZ...much appreciated.
Here’s something strange: The M1 Garand that I have feels like it has LESS recoil, even with the larger 7.62mmx63mm .30-06 round.
The M1A feels a little more “punchy”, even though the 7.62x51 round has less powder. I just attributed that to the placement of the gas tube.
While it’s not a problem, there is definitely a different feel to it.
Both are amazing.