Advice on M1A parts needed.

[tdow]

Yesterday, I picked up a Springfield "Loaded" M1A. I was planning to get a standard model, but at the time I happened to walk in to the store, there was a rifle available that someone had special ordered, put down a non-refundable deposit, and changed their mind on. I got it for $1199 +tax. It was being held in the back of the store, in the box, wrapped in plastic with numerous warnings attached to the trigger guard stating the the rifle is "NOT LEGAL IN CALIFORNIA".

I field stripped it for the first time, and found that at least some of the major components are USGI. The trigger group and the op rod are HRA, the op rod spring guide is TRW. The bolt looks like it's an original, and I think I can make out some grain structure, but I am not sure. It is stamped with the number 7790186-SA, and under that F00070. The print seems to be about 1/16" tall, like Scott Duff says it should be in his book. There are other markings on the rear of the bolt and on the bottom, I believe there is an "M".

I was under the impression that Springfield, Inc. no longer used any USGI parts. I was even planning on buying some to replace all the cast parts I was expecting to get. Was I mistaken, or did I just get lucky? I was really shocked and pleasantly surprised to find the real thing.

I would greatly appreciate any info on these parts, Springfield's current part preferences, or suggestions on further upgrades.

Thanks.

--tdow

 

[Peter M. Eick]

NOT BEING AN EXPERT!!!!

I would bet that yours like mine are mostly cast parts. If you go to battlerifles.com they have a section over there about lot numbers and such and you can check yours. Mine looked like the numbers should but they appeared to be made up and did not match the known heat numbers etc. Thus they are likely cast.

I am not worried about it. SA has a good reputation for backing the gun. Just shoot it and worry about it breaking when/if it does.

Just the opinions of a non-expert on the M1A (but I own a SM, NM, Loaded and Conventional).