M14 Forum

chip127 · February 21st, 2012, 06:26 AM

Hey guys, I am planning on picking up a Sprinfield M1A this coming weekend if everything works out as planned. I am looking at the M1A loaded, but was wondering if it is worth the extra couple bucks vs the M1A standard?
Thanks for your help!

KYShooter · February 21st, 2012, 06:37 AM

I'd say the answer depends on what you want. The loaded model has a heavier (medium weight) match barrel that shoots really well. You will also have 1/2 minute windage adjustments on your rear sight for more precise wind adjustments, narrower front sight, and, perhaps, an improved trigger. You will still need a bedding job done to get the most accuracy out of it but it will shoot pretty good out of the box. So, the loaded will give you somewhat better target accuracy at the expense of weight.

chip127 · February 21st, 2012, 06:41 AM

Thanks KYShooter. I will mostly be using it for target shooting. 100 to 200 yard range.

Stg1944 · February 21st, 2012, 07:51 AM

Get the loaded. It is closer to a match rifle than the standard. You can upgrade at your leisure by adding round spring guide, hooded rear aperture, unitize the gas system, bedding. You'll already have the the items KYShooter mentioned plus a NM flash hider.

RET DEP 04 · February 21st, 2012, 08:01 AM

Go with the loaded. For your intended use it is the best dollar value. Keep us posted on how the purchase works out.

Young guns · February 21st, 2012, 08:24 AM

As every body else has said go with the loaded it is worthit in the long run. Also if you want to fork over some more get the NM model its a few more options that even the loaded dosent have.
Good Shooting.

scottm1 · February 21st, 2012, 08:38 AM

Get the loaded, worth the few exta dollars.
Scott

TEA · February 21st, 2012, 09:18 AM

Another vote for the Loaded. That's what I started out with and upgraded over time to a fully match tuned rifle as funds permitted. It did serve me well in the Loaded configuration as I got started in HP and Service Rifle comps. For a new shooter, it was more accurate than I was.

hammonje · February 21st, 2012, 09:31 AM

Big +1 for the loaded model. NM barrel is a worthy upgrade.

chip127 · February 21st, 2012, 09:31 AM

Thanks for the input guys. Loaded it will be.
I am just starting with this platform so I will be hitting you up for advice on the other modifications that STG1944 listed.
One other question - Are there any advantages to the black fiber stock over the walnut? I personally like the walnut finish myself...

Dave67k · February 21st, 2012, 11:24 AM

Loaded w/ Walnut and a few boxes of FGMM is a very nice start for the money spent. Zero to happy camper in first range trip, promise.

Omegareaper · February 21st, 2012, 01:00 PM

Go loaded, I just recently sold my standard to upgrade to a SA Loaded model. At first I though my decision to do so was foolish, after a few trips to the range I've been nothing but happy with my results. The improved accuracy with the loaded medium weight barrel was worth the upgrade, the sights and lighter trigger are a bonus in my eyes. Also landed a steal on a brand new loaded model for a standard model price. Pays to have friends who hold a ffl!

mustang7 · February 21st, 2012, 02:41 PM

I went with the Loaded in the off chance I might get into competitive shooting. Didn't think it would happen but it did. It will be awhile before I catch up to the abilities off the rifle but it sure is fun trying.

wlhawk · February 22nd, 2012, 05:58 AM

The Loaded model is well worth the difference in price. If I had got the standard model however, I'd have a good excuse to get another rifle now.

chip127 · February 27th, 2012, 01:40 PM

I didn't have very much luck at the gun show last weekend so I ended up ordering one online this afternoon. I saved about 150 bucks plus tax by going this route so I guess the wait will be worth it.