m1a accuracy

[fragout]

Below is a pic of same M14S Norinco receiver with ARMS #18 mount, (At left) next to an SAI M1A-A1. (at right)

 

[Torian]

And here's a pick of my ARMS mount on my LRB M14. A little different than Fragouts, but IMO this is the only way you want to mount an optic on an M1A / M14

 

[fragout]

Nice lookin set up ya got there Torian!

Also a good comparison between the 2 different types of ARMS #18 mounts.

Mine is the older version (split rail), while the newer version sports the solid rail.

Either is rock solid, light in weight, and presents the lowest profile that I have found for a receiver mount.

Note: There is a company out there that makes a "copy" of an ARMS mount. I havent used one myself, so cannot attest to it's quality via first hand experience.
They sell for less $$, so this is just info for folks looking at M14 mounts. The ARMS mount will have thier swan logo on it, and will also have the NSN stamped on it as well.

 

[Torian]

Thanks. I wish I had two like you!

 

[fragout]

I'll trade you one for your LRB

Just kidding.

Your LRB M14SA looks sharp.

What type of bbl does yours sport.

My M14S has a Criterion (Purchased from LRB) 18.5in chrome lined std contour. ( It will put 5 rds of M852 close to an inch group at 100yds if I do my part)

The M1A-A1 has it's factory tube. (Shoots almost as well as the other with same load)

 

[Torian]

My LRB14 was assembled and accurized by none other than Jon Wolfe himself.

I also have a 18.5" Criterion Chrome-Lined Barrel (with vortex flash hider). They are great performers if fitted properly. This gun will shoot under 1in MOA at 100 yards with American Eagle M1A 168 grain ammo.

All the rest of the parts (aside from the LRB receiver) were NEW or AS NEW USGI parts, to include the fiberglass stock.

I bought this rifle used from an acquaintance who didn't really want to give it up at all, but needed to raise money for a wedding (I don't know whether to feel happy or sorry for him). I spent about 2700 on it to include a carry case and 4 mags. Considering who Jon Wolfe is, that he had his hands on it, and the fact that is it an LRB build, I considered it a good deal.

It was definitely my most expensive firearm purchase to date.

*sorry for the thread hijack*

 

[PonyKiller]

a good friend of mine had one, 18-20" barrel I think, wood stock, flat out pretty. He fed it nothing but the 147 grn nato stuff, off bags we managed solid 1" groups on the peeps.
The best five shot group I've ever shot was with that rifle, 100yds, iron sights, quarter sized. He used it for 300yd steel plate shoots routinely. Eventually he sold it, I still miss it thought!

FWI he had a scope, mounted like the one on post#24, good brand, lock-tite, good rings, that would hold for about 50 rounds and then became different bay erratic. I would certainly start there.

 

[fragout]

Ammo just might tighten up your groups as well. (Like you mentioned)

Here are a few factory loads that I have had good luck with....especially when establishing how well a specific M14/M1A shoots....

http://www.venturamunitions.com/american-eagle-7-62x51mm-168gr-otm-m1a-match-20-rounds/

http://www.ammunitiontogo.com/produ...atch-ammo/cName/308-762-nato-all-308-762-nato



http://www.keepshooting.com/hpr-308-winchester-ammunition-308168bthp.html

http://www.sportsmanswarehouse.com/...tail/.308-Winchester/prod9999006040/cat115305

Note: The above load also is loaded with 168gr SMK.

http://www.wideners.com/itemdetail.cfm?item_id=8458&dir=18|830|848

The list goes on, but should give you an idea.


Torian:

My M14S is built pretty much like your LRB. I opted for the Smith enterprise Inc. gas lock front sight and Vortex flash hider with this build, vs the "USGI front end"

Jon Wolfe is a class act, and would highly recomend him for building anything one desires regarding the M14/M1A.

Very honest, and plesent to deal with. If you send him a "questionable" pile of parts, he will give you an honest evaluation of the parts.

I'm on the fence with my next build. ( Existing SAI receiver, LRB M14SA or LRB M25)

Once I make up my mind on the receiver, Jon will be the guy I send it to for the build.

General info for everyone in reference to NIW CMI magazines starting at $19.95 per mag>
http://www.lrbarms.com/m14accessories.html

 

[MTMilitiaman]

I have a Springfield "Loaded" M1A in stainless/synthetic. It will do 1.5 to 2 MOA with 147 gr ball and iron sights off the bench when it is shooting right. However, I managed to lose the front stock ferrell, and grouping went to crap. Closer to 5 MOA now, with the vertical stringing mentioned by the OP for the first shooter. I say check the forend and the gas assembly and make sure everything is present and accounted for, and tight.

 

[itsa pain]

a good friend of mine had one, 18-20" barrel I think, wood stock, flat out pretty. He fed it nothing but the 147 grn nato stuff, off bags we managed solid 1" groups on the peeps.
The best five shot group I've ever shot was with that rifle, 100yds, iron sights, quarter sized. He used it for 300yd steel plate shoots routinely. Eventually he sold it, I still miss it thought!

FWI he had a scope, mounted like the one on post#24, good brand, lock-tite, good rings, that would hold for about 50 rounds and then became different bay erratic. I would certainly start there.

my M1A shot exactly the same with ammo I loaded with 147 FMJ's. I do not believe in putting a scope on them. mounts way to heavy and expensive problematic and make the gun to heavy and bulky

 

[Cosmoline]

so my question is this: Are we doing something wrong? Do m1a's require a fair bit of tweaking to get to shoot?

It's always a good idea to use the irons to rule out any scope problems. The M1A should not be grouping that badly. It's not an inherent tack driver without help, but it should give you consistent and reliable 3" or better groups at 100 yards.

Also use good quality ammo to rule out problems with the ammo. Just grabbing some old stuff, shooting with a scope, is not the best way to test any rifle.

M1A's can be bedded of course though it's a trickier process than on most bolt actions.

 

[rodinal220]

M-80 type ball ammo isn't going to give you great groups. You need better ammo. Match type ammo from Federal or Black Hills or roll your own with appropriate propellants for the M-14 gas system.