What are the improvements in the loaded model as opposed to the base M1A? Thanks.
If you take a National Match, then remove the bedding, the hood on the aperture, and replace the 1/2 MOA windage knob with a 1 MOA knob, you have a Loaded. To me, they are the best deal offered by SAI, especially if you do not want the action bedded.
Here's my M1A Loaded, with a disclaimer:
I absolutely suck behind the camera, and my camera could only be accurately described with words that would offend Art's good ol' grandma.
This was the best I could do indoors. I have fluorescent lighting which sucks for pictures, so I just turned everything off but the lamp. If I get around to it, I'll take some pics outside.
As far as my opinion on the rifle, I couldn't be happier with it. My first time out hunting with it I killed a doe. The doe took off after I shot her the first time (which was a good shot right in the wheel house, she just didn't want to give up the ghost), and I shot three more times at her on the run. I didn't really expect to hit her, because she was full speed ahead, but when I walked over to where she finally dropped, there were 4 entrance and exit wounds. Every shot landed on target, even those shot with her on the run. I wouldn't have been able to do that with my 742.
The irons are amazing for fast acquisition and keeping on a moving target.
What sling do you recommend for the full size M1A loaded?
I know you asked this to nbkky71, but I thought I'd offer my humble opinion,too.
If you are going to compete with it, there is no question that the 1907 style sling is the best thing going. If you are going to use it as a hunting gun, or for any other situation where the most you will do with the sling is use a hasty sling to help stabilize, then just get the cheaper web sling. Numrich's has them for like $8, and I've seen them at Cheaper than Dirt for $7. Even these can be made into a loop sling, but you have to undo the J-hook at the butt end. It takes longer to get into a loop sling with the web slings than the 1907, and the 1907 makes a superior loop sling, but if you're just going to use a hasty sling, then the 1907 may not be worth the extra cost and worry of it getting wet (assuming it's leather and not biothane). Of course, if you get the rifle, you'll probably end up with both types of slings eventually
Best,
Jason