Description
Few rifles carry the kind of history the M1A does. Springfield Armory has been building this semi-auto version of the M14 since 1974, and the Standard Issue model stays true to the original formula: a full-length 22 inch carbon steel barrel with a 1:11 twist, gas-operated action with an op-rod and roller cam bolt, and the classic two-stage military trigger that has been winning matches for decades. This version swaps the traditional walnut for a Desert FDE composite stock that shrugs off rain, mud, and years of range trips without a second thought.
Iron Sights the M1A Standard Got Right the First Time
The sight setup is one of the best reasons to own this rifle. Up front you get a .062 inch National Match blade, and out back sits the military aperture rear sight with finger-adjustable MOA clicks for both windage and elevation. No tools, no fuss, just dial it in and hold. Plenty of .308 rifles need glass to shoot well at distance. This one does not, though the receiver can be set up for a scope down the road if you want the option. The long slotted flash suppressor rounds out that unmistakable M14 profile.
Shooting the .308 M1A Standard
At 8 pounds 8 ounces, this is not a lightweight carbine, and that is a good thing when you are sending 7.62 NATO downrange. The heft soaks up recoil and keeps the rifle settled between shots, making longer range sessions genuinely comfortable. The 1:11 twist barrel stabilizes heavier .308 loads well, so it handles everything from match ammo to hunting loads without complaint.
What Comes with the Springfield M1A FDE
Springfield includes one 10-round detachable box magazine plus a heavy-duty rifle bag with a padded foam shell, adjustable interior straps, and a muzzle protector. Whether this ends up as your match rifle, your woods gun, or the centerpiece of a military-inspired collection, the M1A Standard earns its spot. Rifles like this do not go out of style, and this one has fifty years of production behind it to prove the point.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Springfield Armory
- Model: M1A Standard Issue
- MPN: MA9120
- UPC: 706397900106
- Caliber: .308 Win / 7.62x51mm NATO
- Action: Semi-Auto, Gas-Operated Rotating Bolt
- Barrel: 22 in Carbon Steel, 6-Groove, 1:11 Twist
- Capacity: 10 Rounds
- Stock: Desert FDE Composite
- Front Sight: National Match .062 in Blade
- Rear Sight: Military Aperture, MOA Adjustable for Windage and Elevation
- Trigger: Two-Stage Military
- Muzzle Device: Flash Suppressor
- Overall Length: 44.33 in
- Weight: 8 lbs 8 oz
- Receiver Finish: Black Parkerized
What’s Included
- Springfield Armory M1A Standard rifle
- One 10-round detachable box magazine
- Heavy-duty padded rifle bag with muzzle protector
- Owner's manual
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mount a scope on the Springfield M1A Standard?
Yes, but you will need a separate scope mount since the rifle ships with iron sights only. The M1A receiver accepts dedicated side-mount optic bases from Springfield and several aftermarket makers. Many owners run the excellent aperture sights for years before ever adding glass, and the National Match front blade makes them worth learning.
Does the M1A Standard shoot both .308 Win and 7.62 NATO?
Yes, this rifle is chambered to run both .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO ammunition. The 1:11 twist, 22 inch barrel handles a wide range of bullet weights well. Stick to quality brass-cased ammo for the best reliability and accuracy out of the gas system.
How heavy is the M1A Standard and does it kick much?
It weighs 8 pounds 8 ounces unloaded, which is on the heavier side by modern standards. That weight works in your favor with .308, since it soaks up recoil and keeps muzzle rise manageable. Most people find it noticeably softer shooting than lighter .308 rifles.
Does the M1A Standard accept higher capacity magazines?
Yes, the M1A uses detachable box magazines and Springfield offers factory mags in larger capacities, with plenty of quality aftermarket options out there too. This model ships with one 10-round magazine in the box. Genuine Springfield or USGI-pattern M14 magazines tend to run the most reliably.




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