01-14-2012, 03:24 PM
The biggest challenge with the M14/M1A for mounting is that the receivers are not standardized for dimensional uniformity where it counts for mounting optics. The threaded screw hole on the left side of the receiver is at different locations when indexed from either the stripper clip guide, or the 0, 0, 0 datum point in the blue prints. This is why PWS welds theirs.
The Sage stock has the best cheek piece, but the fore end is way too bulky and heavy. Everyone I know that has tried to go down the M1A accuracy path with optics has experienced the spiraling vortex of money suck that the system is. Sometimes you come across a hummer, but most are an endless quest for reliable and repeatable accuracy.
One optics mounting solution is to mill off the protective ears of the rear sight assembly, drill and tap for a 1-piece Picatinny scope base, and black Loc-tite or weld it to the receiver permanently. I know a black gun artist who did an M1A like that for a customer in the Ft. Bragg area, and he also installed a straight 1" bull Krieger barrel. He cut the top of the gas block, made it into a dovetail, and dovetailed the barrel to mount it. The customer is always tickled when shooting that rifle, as it is a solid performer, but you see that the M14 is not inherently accurate for many reasons.
The Sage stock has the best cheek piece, but the fore end is way too bulky and heavy. Everyone I know that has tried to go down the M1A accuracy path with optics has experienced the spiraling vortex of money suck that the system is. Sometimes you come across a hummer, but most are an endless quest for reliable and repeatable accuracy.
One optics mounting solution is to mill off the protective ears of the rear sight assembly, drill and tap for a 1-piece Picatinny scope base, and black Loc-tite or weld it to the receiver permanently. I know a black gun artist who did an M1A like that for a customer in the Ft. Bragg area, and he also installed a straight 1" bull Krieger barrel. He cut the top of the gas block, made it into a dovetail, and dovetailed the barrel to mount it. The customer is always tickled when shooting that rifle, as it is a solid performer, but you see that the M14 is not inherently accurate for many reasons.