Installing the Harris bipod adapter on an M1a - Fore or Aft of the front Swivel?

[NickEllis]

I've got a SA M1a Loaded Synthetic. I'd like to attach a Harris bipod adapter to it, probably the .

The options to attach the flanged QD stud seem to be a) drill a hole in the 1/2 inch space between the fore swivel rivet and the gas bleed hole; b) drill a hole an inch or so aft of the swivel, or c) possibly drill/dremmel out the fore swivel rivet and replace it with the adapter stud (not sure if that would even work, actually).

On a) the space between the swivel rivet bar and the bleed hole is awful tight, and I'm worried about cracking the stock.

On b): I'd prefer to not permanently interfere with my support hand when slung up for shooting hi-power, etc., and worry about the stud interfering if installed aft of the swivel.

On c) even if I could make it lay flush on the inside, the aft end of the harris base looks like it will ride on the swivel.

Any suggestions?

 

[NickEllis]

And I take it that one certainly should not use the bleed-hole to mount the adapter.

 

[Anotherguy]

I can recommend the replacement stock mounted front swivel with rail manufactured by versa-pod. It replaces the existing front sling swivel which is attached with two rivets on the M1A. You drill out the stock rivets, remove the standard issue front swivel and install it in it's place. It has a milled channel that allows residual gas to bleed off from the vent hole. You can then attach a rail mounted sling swivel to attach your Harris bipod. It comes with very clear instructions and hardware to install it yourself. Mine has been rock solid. I bought it from Fulton Armory but you can probably get one elsewhere too.