Springfield Armory M1A
Springfield Armory, Inc. · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 1974
Also known as: M1A, Civilian M14, Springfield M1A
Overview
The Springfield Armory M1A is a semi-automatic civilian version of the M14 battle rifle, manufactured by Springfield Armory, Inc. Chambered primarily in 7.62x51mm NATO/.308 Winchester, the M1A retains the M14's proven gas-operated rotating bolt action and robust construction while omitting the military select-fire capability. The rifle features a 22-inch barrel with a 1:11 right-hand twist, two-stage trigger, Garand-style operating rod, and accepts standard M14 detachable box magazines. The M1A has become one of the most popular precision semi-automatic rifle platforms in the United States, widely used in NRA High Power competition, Civilian Marksmanship Program matches, and as a designated marksman platform. Its combination of proven reliability, inherent accuracy, and powerful cartridge has sustained demand for over five decades.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 4220 g (148.9 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 4760 g (167.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1126 mm (44.33") |
| Barrel Length | 559 mm (22.01") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Short Stroke Piston |
| Firing Mechanism | Rotating Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Two Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 24 N (5.4 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 850 m/s (2789 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 3515 J (2593 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 500 m (547 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3725 m (4074 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 279 mm (10.98") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Chrome Moly Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Parkerized |
Calibers
- .308 Winchester · primary · 7.62x51mm NATO — also known as 7.62x51mm NATO, 7.62 NATO
- 6.5 Creedmoor — also known as 6.5 CM, 6.5mm Creedmoor
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: National Match Barrel, Adjustable Sights, Stripper Clip Guide, Flash Hider, Bipod Mount
Variants
- Springfield Armory M1A Loaded — Upgraded
- Springfield Armory M1A SOCOM 16 — Compact
- Springfield Armory M1A Scout Squad — Scout
- Springfield Armory M1A National Match — Competition
- Springfield Armory M1A Super Match — Precision
Production
Production years: 1974-present
Continuously produced since 1974. One of Springfield Armory's flagship products. Exact production numbers not publicly disclosed.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The M1A is produced by Springfield Armory, Inc. of Geneseo, Illinois, a private company with no connection to the original U.S. government Springfield Armory that closed in 1968. Early M1A rifles were assembled using surplus GI M14 parts before Springfield Armory began manufacturing their own components. The M1A Loaded model features a National Match barrel and upgraded trigger. MSRP ranges from approximately $1,700 for the Standard to over $2,900 for the Super Match. The SOCOM 16 variant with its 16.25-inch barrel is popular for defensive applications.
Background
When Robert Reese purchased Springfield Armory and moved it to Geneseo, Illinois in 1974, he bet the company's future on the M1A at a time when the AR-15 platform was gaining dominance. The gamble paid off, and the M1A became the foundation of a firearms empire. The rifle remains a perennial favorite in NRA High Power competition and among shooters who prefer the traditional battle rifle platform over modern sporting rifles.