M1A Op Rod Question

[ChiefPilot]

I just received my M1A back from Springfield for warranty service (surprise surprise) and although they didn't list it on the work order, there is a different op-rod on it than when I sent it in. The finish on it is worn here and there, which is fine with me so long as it functions correctly, but it has a rather large "MSR" engraved onto it. Before I call up Springfield and arrange another round trip to Geneseo IL for my rifle, can anyone confirm that "MSR" isn't a standard marking on an M1A op rod?

Thanks!

 

[ALS]

In case your question isn't answered try asking it over at M14 forums
When it comes to M-14's and M1A's there isn't a better board for these types of questions.

 

[Steve Smith]

I am guessing that you got a used USGI op rod. That is both good and bad, but I would consider it mainly good and be happy with what I had if it works.

 

[ChiefPilot]

After spending some time on the Internet and kneeling before the altar of Google, it lookes like I have a USGI op rod manufactured by Winchester. The engraving is cheesy, but I suppose "MSR" can stand for "My Springfield Rifle" if I'm pushed to explain it. A re-park is definately going to happen after I verify that the rifle works as designed.

Springfield did a decent job; it looks like they also replaced the extractor and ejector with genuine USGI parts. I'm not 100% sure about that, but the parts look slightly different and I can't find a mold release line anywhere. Either way, so long as it works, I'll be happy.

Also, thanks for the reference to M14 forums - it's a great store of information. It's like the arfcom for M1As!

Thanks!