I need the help of our Milsurp gurus on what to look for (or watch out for) when buying a used M1a rifle.

 

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

I don't know enough on these guns yet to give really good advice. I would go ask this question at m14tfl.com. those are the experts

thanks for the info Axeman G!

I need the help of our Milsurp gurus on what to look for (or watch out for) when buying a used M1a rifle.

 

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

It depends on what model you are looking for. Some are lovingly cared for and others are not. Earlier used M1A's used a mix of USGI parts along with SAI parts up until early 2000 I believe. New ones today are all SAI. USGI parts are considered better. You can always add these later along with other aftermarket products as required. Only you just don't have the smorgasbord of offerings like you do with an AR.

 

• 
   
  
• Look for wear or peening on the inside of the operating rod where its final rearward movement meets the forward underside part of the receiver. Some have a tight fit and you'll see peening or metal removed from the op rod. A bit of work with a file helps relieve this. Too much wear could spell trouble down the line.
  
• Make sure the threads on the gas cylinder lock and gas cylinder plug turn easily and are not cross threaded.
  
• Make sure the gas cylinder valve spindle depresses properly and turns freely to either of its positions.
  
• Inquire if the owner installed shims to align the gas port. Some are fine the way they come and don't require shimming, some are a little off and folks have played with their gas system.
  
• Make sure the flash hider is firmly affixed on the muzzle.
  
• Make sure the bolt lock works properly and holds the bolt open when an empty magazine is removed.
  
• Make sure the windage and elevation knobs on the rear sight move freely with graduated audible clicks and move the peep sight as intended.
  
• If you are looking for "used," one thing to check for in the safety area is "hammer follow through." With no magazine in the rifle, hold the trigger back, cock the action a few times, then let the operating rod fly forward under its spring pressure. If the hammer follows that jolt, the stock is either ill-fitting or was replaced and has too much meat in the area of the trigger guard for a proper bedding surface for the receiver and trigger guard.
  
• You might want to stay away from the factory SAI 'glass stock. I've heard it's "rubbery" in feel. Folks on the M14tlf.com forum seem to feel the same way. The walnut stock is better and if you must have fiberglass then get a USGI 'glass stock. LRB Arms has them and sells them.
  

Thank you for the pointers, Parker!