Looking for under $1000 shipped.  Before I go into EE or anywhere else what should I look out for?

Mostly target shooting; although I hear that scopes are a bit awkward on it, I suppose there is some type of ideal setup.  Any other recommendations?  I 'search'ed thru and saw the posts on the FAL and stuff.

My understanding of the .308 round is that it is very accurate and powerful.  The 30-06 Interarms I shot recently was just too much, 30 rounds in one sitting was the limit for me (my head anyway ; shoulder was less hurt than I thought it would be )

After having my M1 Carbine I just like the look, the wood and the sights; figure I would get a big brother to it.


Or should I just go with a Rem700 of some type?

thanks,
dan



edit:  great  .  I just found a thread about a RRA AR10 to be introduced at SHOT 2006.  So many choices

check the EE!!

junk

In the past I have owned and sold an SAI M1A1 Loaded, An Armalite AR10A4 and an Imbel FAL.

All were reliable.

The M1A1 and AR10A4 were very accurate.

I decided I missed my 7.62 NATO semi so I bought a SAI STD M1A1 and ordered a SAI Scout.  I don't know why I'm back to the M1A1, but I'm happy to be back.

Don't pass up one with a composite stock. They usually fit tighter (better accuracy) and you can always pic up a nice wood stock from Fred's for under a $100.00. Scope mounts are all right, you just have to get a decent one. I have an A.R.M.S. #18 on mine and it works great. Need a cheek piece though. The stocks were designed for the iron sights. Good luck

What companies should I look out for?  Avoid?

I avoid Armscor, Federal Ord, National Ord, and other no-name brands.

I like older Springfields, Devine, Polytechs or Norincos that have had everything but the receiver replaced, and Fultons.  I've heard about someone else, but I don't know about them yet.

Honestly, at least up to a few years ago, the Polytech and Norinco receivers were the best receivers out there, but everything else on that rifle besides the receiver is utter crap.  There are some other players in the new receiver game besides Springfield these days, and that helps a bit.

USGI parts are preferable to non-USGI in almost every instance.  They're harder to find, but my "pre-ban" Springfield is all USGI outside of the receiver and I managed to squirrel away some spares, so I'm pretty OK in the department.

Newer Springfields have a lot of cast knock-off parts that are somewhat out of spec, but they do have a great warranty.  Your mileage may vary.