Quoted:
Just picked up a supposedly preban M1A "as new" with box and papers last night. Please don't woop me for the violation of lack of pics.
Upon inspection I see the hammer is hitting the sear. Not just a little but pretty serious off track, close to 1/16 of an inch.
What would be the best way to correct this disapointing flaw short of sending the trigger group to SA?
I have NO PAPUH following this one, I intend to keep it that way.
I am elated at getting this weapon. I've been after a fine specimen for almost 10 years.
I believe the pricks are gona bring us some free ammo soon so I've wanted to go with some .308 weapons for some time. Put together a nice Rem 700 last week.
She is virtually unmarked in any way. The walnut is flawless and very snug, just the way I like my girls.
What can you men tell me about this rifle, Serial # is 0773XX.
It would appear to be bare bones. No NM markings or any thing of note. The Barrel appears to have MRA in the serial number. I think that's it, my eyes suck. Most of the numbers I'm finding start with 77, does this indicate 1977 date of manufacture?
How much USGI components might I have here?
Also, I've heard of an optical peep. Sounds like a good possibility to help my aging eyes but I think in wet or shit conditions it wouldn't work for me. Is there such a thing as an open peep? What I'm thinking is a peep that is cut to a "V" at top would help my sighting. Especially in low light.
I also picked up a new Poly 2 weeks ago. The rear sights really suck, very loose elevation knob. I have a freind that said he's got a NM SA but hasn't quoted a price yet.
Ammo, Ive been stocking up on LC match brass. I've got 250 matchkings in 168 gr. I've got 1000 nosler bulk.
I might have picked 175gr had I been better informed but I think there might be more 168's around so that isn't all bad.
What would be a good source of loading data for the M1A specifically?
I decided on IMR 4895 for .223 and 30––06 and 308. Found a source of kegs that hasn't dried up yet.
What would be desired velocities for M1A using IMR4895, any load suggestions?
I'd like to see a walnut handguard, where can such a critter be found? Or, what are the plusses or minusses in changing from the synthetic?
I love the walnut, it is also the lightest I've ever hefted, unusual.
I'm sure as I get to know my 2 new wives I'll have many more questions for you men. I thank you for your advice in advance. I've been lurking here for a while and I'm pretty impressed with most of you. I hope I can become welcome here.
ETA: I paid $1800 for this one. Not being NM or something special I know I paid high. But then again considering she's old and unused I think I did well.
Sir, it's been said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. NM markings have very little meaning to someone that actually uses one of these rifles in competition, all the rest is just for collectors and serves no meaningful purpose other than a basis for the seller to jack up the price.
IIRC SA recievers in that serial range were very late preban, one of my rifles SN 58XXX was built in '91, but not by SA. The Bob Jones sight insert fits inside the hooded NM aperture and is retained in position by an "O" ring. As already mentioned it's all but useless for other than HP competitors. If you really want some form of optical sight I recommend you consider the ACOG, Aimpoint, or EOTECH with the rifle reconfigured with a picatinny rail system.
I've used handloads in competition for many years, ideal velocity for the 168gy Sierra Match King bullet is just under 2600fps and the 175gr SMK just over 2600fps. IMR 4895 is the powder of choice for most, but there are users of 4064 and Varget for this cartridge. If you have a rifle that will shoot MOA at 600yd and you are also up to it the 175gr bullet is the choice of most, otherwise stick with the 168gr SMK, it will be as accurate as you want it to be all across the course if you are up to it.
Real NM2A sights are pricey, the knock offs need to be fitted by a knowledgeable gunsmith to be functionally useable, otherwise just tighten up what you have and rely on Kentucky windage for plinking. FA sells their version of NM sights but again as with most FA items they aren't inexpensive and are best fitted.
HTH, 7zero1.