M14 rifle plastic stocks

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Slater

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The following was taken from the DTIC site:


Accession Number : AD0265118

Title : SERVICE TEST OF PLASTIC STOCKS FOR RIFLE, 7.62MM, M14

Corporate Author : ARMY INFANTRY BOARD FORT BENNING GA

Report Date : 29 SEP 1961

Pagination or Media Count : 1

Abstract : INVESTIGATION WAS UNDERTAKEN TO DETERMINE THE SUITABILITY OF PLASTIC STOCKS FOR Rifle, 7.62mm, M14, for Army use under temperate environmental conditions. Plastic stocks for Rifle, 7.62mm, M14 are fabricated from fiberglas material and cut fibers. The test stocks are molded in two halves and then assembled in a fixture using an epoxy resin adhesive for binding. To provide additional strength of binding, three knurled aluminum pins are used in assembly of the two halves. These pins are inserted in opposing oversize holes filled with epoxy resin adhesive in each half of the stock. The pins are employed merely to provide additional shear area for the adhesive. Small overlays of glasscloth are then placed over the seam. Each half of the test stock consists of three layers of 1 1/2 ounces of glass material pre-impregnated with colored polyester resin. Tests of physical characteristics, effects upon weapon accuracy, effects upon weapon functioning, and durability, adverse conditions, retention of heat, suitability for mounting the M15 Grenade Sight, and aerial delivery were made. The plastic stock is suitable for conventional Army use with the Rifle, 7.62mm, M14, under temperate environmental conditions. The test stock is interchangeable with and can be used as a substitute for the standard item now in production.


Was this particular stock ever used to any great extent in service (if at all)?
 
When I was in WA State University ROTC in the middle '70s, our arms room had M-14s. The majority of them had plastic stocks. All were fixed as semi-auto only. They didn't trust us with bayonets, but that is more than you asked :)

Bart Noir
 
Plastic = Fiberglass?

If it's the prototype for the latter, then yes, it was used in service, though I don't know how many were in service in Vietnam compared to the moisture-sensitive wooden version.

My M14NM has the USGI fiberglass (plastic?) stock, albeit with my bedding and paint job:

m14nmbench.gif
 
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