Given that the NJSP specifically designates the M1A from Springfield Armory as acceptable, is it the best bet to buy one of those vs a James River or one of the ones from the outfit on Long Island?

Maybe its overthinking, but it seems it may create less issue in future years... or not.  Time will tell. 

Im not the most enamoured with SA right now, including rumors that some parts may not be US made.  James River I suspect may be the better product. 

Im not looking for a "SOCOM" version.

Thoughts? 

I've had a Springfield M1a Scout (and a SOCOM) for several years and they've been fine in terms of performance and reliability. I took the advice of a couple of guys and have keep spare bolt parts in my range bag for both (extractor, springs, etc) but have never had to use any of them. I loved the Scout right out of the box. I didn't like the poly stock on the SOCOM, so I ended up changing it out for a walnut stock which made a world of difference.

If your just going to take the gun to the range for fun, then I think that the SAI models are fine. If you're going to compete with the gun then it may make more sense to look into James River or Fulton Armory

 

 

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Look for an earlier M1A... I got an early 1990s N/M gun (locally) that had less than 50 rounds through it for less than what one goes for new. Doesn't sound great, but was built on USGI parts, which are definitely superior than current SAI parts.

Check out M14 Forum. Loads of info, and a few local members (where I found my rifle).

If I really wanted an M14