Since its launch, the Springfield M1A has been one of the most iconic rifles to grace American ranges. My favorite version has always been the Springfield M1A National Match. M1A is the semi-auto version of the classic M14. To better understand the love affair with this gun, we need to look at its history. In 1957, the M14 replaced the M1 Garand following extensive competition over the previous years. The military was looking to improve the Garand, including adding a detachable magazine and full-auto capability. The rifle’s accuracy and reliability soon led to its modification for specialized work.
The Springfield M1A National Match – A Classic
In 1969, Rock Island Arsenal converted over 1400 National Match M14S to be used as sniper rifles during the Vietnam War. The modifications included adding a Leatherwood 3-9x scope and providing match-grade ammunition to the shooters. This version was designated the M21, and it remained the US Army’s primary sniper rifle until 1988. Even after its retirement, the M21 kept finding its way back to war. In small circles, it was reissued during the Gulf War and was seen being carried by several elite units throughout the military.
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Springfield has the distinction of allowing civilian shooters to own their own semi-automatic version of the M14. In 1974, they began manufacturing what would be labeled the “M1A”. It would be a civilian version of the M14, so close to the M14 that Springfield initially used surplus G.I. parts to build its guns. Eventually, they began making all the parts themselves and, in doing so, improved accuracy. In fact, until the very late 1990’s, the rifle still had the cutout on the right rear of the stock for the full-auto selector.
Glass Bedded Action
The National Match’s specific features include high-quality touches like a glass-bedded action in its new walnut stock, which provides a platform as rock-solid as your reputation at the range, while a crisp 4.5- to 5-lb. two-stage trigger ensures your shots line up. It has a medium-weight, premium, air-gauged National Match barrel available in carbon or stainless steel. The result is a rifle that helps you reach the top of the leaderboards and stay on target. Most importantly, though, the action is glass-bedded, and parts are hand-fitted to make sure everything on the rifle sets together perfectly.
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The Springfield M1A National Match
On the range, the gun is exceptionally soft-shooting, contrary to what some may think. The rifle’s weight and density absorb recoil well, making long shooting sessions a breeze. The gun is feature-rich and is a perfect mix of modern manufacturing technology and old-school gun building. It is a beautiful classic rifle that belongs in the safe of any serious gun owner in America.
For more information, visit Springfield Armory.
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