GI M1A parts or National Match?

JustC

I have heard that the GI parts are more durable, but I can't see this being the case with the higher end M1A's. The NM is a much better built and fit rifle than the rack grade, so what do the GI parts have that is better?

nmyers

USGI parts for the M14 were forged and milled; this was required by military specifications. All reproduction parts, whether by SA Inc or the Chinese, are cast. Cast parts will break or wear much more quickly. Cast parts can be made very precisely, but they just aren't as durable.Neal

JustC

NMYERS, If I want accuracy at 500yds, would I be better with the NM or the GI and have it tuned by a gunsmith? I plan on hunting (off of rest) on crop damage permits to 400+ yards with it.How many rounds will the SA nat'l match last realisticaly?

nmyers

Most shooters taking game out to 500 yds with an M14 would probably need to have an armorer work on it, regardless of whether it started out as a service grade rifle or NM. There may not be any point in buying NM sights when you will be using a scope. Maybe our readers who are long range hunters can give better advice, but many of them use bolt actions.There's no way to tell how long a given part will last; that uncertainty is why I stopped buying cars from General Motors.You may want to consider having a service-trained armorer build yours from scratch. My rifle has a SA Inc receiver, to which all USGI parts were assembled, including a Saco lightweight NM barrel, by an armorer. Check out the Fulton Armory website.Neal

JustC

thanks, I use my bolt guns for long range and just wanted to try the M1A, as I have heard it is one of the most accurate semi's out there. I will research more on the GI stuff before I decide.