Springfield Armory M1A Loaded Rifle: Precision and Performance for Discerning Shooters

For competitive rifle shooters, dedicated marksmen, and enthusiasts who demand exceptional accuracy and the iconic M14 platform without the bespoke costs of a custom build, the Springfield Armory M1A Loaded series stands as a definitive choice. This rifle is engineered to bridge the gap between a standard firearm and a match-grade competition rifle, offering a suite of performance-oriented upgrades directly from the factory. If you're searching for a rifle that delivers a superior shooting experience, whether on the range, in the field, or for specialized applications, the M1A Loaded offers an unparalleled blend of heritage, reliability, and precision.

Are you a competitive shooter looking to gain an edge in events like NRA High Power, or simply a passionate long-range enthusiast aiming for tighter groups? Perhaps you're a collector seeking a modern classic with genuine performance enhancements, or someone who values the robust reliability of a time-tested design adapted for modern precision. The M1A Loaded series directly addresses these needs by integrating features that were once the domain of specialized gunsmiths, making top-tier performance accessible and affordable. This rifle is designed for those who appreciate the M14's legacy but demand contemporary accuracy and consistency.

Unlocking National Match Performance: What Sets the M1A Loaded Apart?

The "Loaded" designation in the M1A series signifies a significant step up from the standard model, incorporating critical enhancements that directly impact accuracy and shooter comfort. These upgrades are not mere cosmetic additions; they are carefully selected components that contribute to the rifle's ability to consistently deliver precision shots, making it an ideal choice for serious competitors and precision shooting aficionados.

The Premium Air-Gauged National Match Barrel

At the heart of the M1A Loaded's exceptional accuracy is its 22-inch National Match medium-weight premium air-gauged carbon steel barrel. This is not just any barrel; "National Match" denotes a higher standard of manufacturing and quality control.

• Air-Gauged Precision: Air gauging is a meticulous process used to measure the consistency of the bore's diameter down to incredibly fine tolerances. This ensures an exceptionally uniform bore, which is crucial for predictable projectile flight and tighter shot groups. A consistent bore means less variation in bullet path, leading to improved accuracy.
• Medium Weight Profile: The medium-weight profile strikes an optimal balance. It's heavier than a standard barrel, which aids in dissipating heat more effectively during sustained firing, reducing point-of-impact shift as the barrel warms. This added mass also contributes to greater rigidity, minimizing barrel whip and vibrations that can negatively affect accuracy. Yet, it avoids the excessive weight of a true heavy match barrel, maintaining a degree of maneuverability and balance suitable for various shooting positions and prolonged use.
• 1:11" Right-Hand Twist: The 1:11-inch right-hand twist rate is carefully chosen to stabilize a wide range of popular .308 WIN and 7.62x51mm NATO bullet weights, particularly those favored by precision shooters and competitors. This optimal twist rate ensures proper bullet spin for maximum stability and accuracy at extended ranges.
• Carbon Steel Durability: Constructed from high-quality carbon steel, this barrel offers excellent durability and longevity, capable of withstanding thousands of rounds while maintaining its inherent accuracy.

This combination of features in the barrel alone provides a significant advantage for shooters aiming for consistent performance and tight groupings.

National Match Tuned 2-Stage Trigger System

A rifle's trigger is arguably the most critical interface between the shooter and the firearm, profoundly impacting shot placement. The M1A Loaded features a National Match tuned 4.5-5 pound 2-stage trigger, a dramatic improvement over standard military-style triggers.

• Two-Stage Operation: A two-stage trigger offers distinct advantages for precision shooting. The first stage involves a light take-up or pre-travel, allowing the shooter to find a natural, consistent trigger pull point. The second stage then presents a crisp, clean break with minimal overtravel. This clear delineation helps shooters anticipate the shot release without disturbing their sight picture, leading to more precise and controlled firing.
• National Match Tuning: "National Match tuned" means the trigger components have been carefully polished, adjusted, and fitted to reduce creep, grit, and stacking. The result is a smooth, predictable pull with a consistent break, empowering shooters to execute precision shots with confidence.
• Optimal Pull Weight: The 4.5-5 pound pull weight is carefully calibrated. It's heavy enough to be safe and suitable for various applications, including competitive shooting where rules often dictate a minimum pull weight, yet light enough to allow for fine control and avoid muscle fatigue or disruption of aim. This precise pull weight, combined with the two-stage action, significantly minimizes shooter-induced errors.

Precision National Match Sights

For optimal targeting, especially in competitive disciplines where iron sights are mandated or preferred, the M1A Loaded is equipped with high-quality National Match sights.

• National Match .062" Blade Front Sight: The front sight features a finer, .062-inch wide blade. This narrower blade allows for a more precise sight picture on distant targets, reducing the amount of target obscured by the sight itself. It's a subtle but significant enhancement for pinpoint accuracy.
• Match Grade Non-Hooded .0520" Aperture Rear Sight: The rear sight is a match-grade, non-hooded aperture with fine adjustments.
  • .0520" Aperture: The precise diameter of the aperture is designed to provide a clear, crisp sight picture, allowing the shooter to focus on the front sight and target without distraction.
  • Non-Hooded Design: While some prefer hooded apertures for specific conditions, the non-hooded design offers a wider field of view, which can be beneficial for faster target acquisition and in certain lighting conditions.
  • 1/2 MOA Windage Adjustment: This allows for incredibly precise horizontal adjustments, with each click moving the point of impact by just 1/2 minute of angle at 100 yards. This fine-tuning capability is crucial for compensating for wind or adjusting for varying target positions.
  • 1 MOA Elevation Adjustment: Vertical adjustments are equally precise, with each click providing 1 minute of angle adjustment. This allows shooters to accurately dial in their elevation for different distances, ensuring reliable hits on target.

These sights provide the clarity and precision needed for demanding marksmanship, enabling shooters to engage targets effectively across various ranges.

The Ergonomics of Precision: Adjustable Stock and Overall Balance

Beyond its internal mechanics, the M1A Loaded is designed with the shooter's comfort and adaptability in mind, particularly through its precision adjustable stock. This stock is a game-changer for achieving optimal shooting ergonomics.

• Custom Fit for Every Shooter: A critical aspect of consistent accuracy is a properly fitted rifle. The precision adjustable stock allows shooters to fine-tune the length of pull and cheek weld height to perfectly match their individual body dimensions, shooting position, and optics (if mounted). This ensures a natural, comfortable, and repeatable head position, which is paramount for clear sight alignment and recoil management.
• Enhanced Recoil Control: A stock that fits well helps distribute recoil effectively, reducing felt recoil and allowing for faster follow-up shots. The M1A Loaded's weight, combined with the adjustable stock, contributes to a stable shooting platform.
• Versatility in Shooting Positions: Whether shooting prone, from a bench, kneeling, or standing, the ability to adjust the stock ensures that the rifle can be optimized for stability and comfort in any scenario. This adaptability makes the M1A Loaded a versatile tool for various shooting disciplines and real-world applications.
• Robust Construction: The stock is engineered to be durable and resistant to environmental factors, ensuring it maintains its integrity and adjustments under demanding use.

The overall length of the rifle, ranging from 45 to 46.25 inches depending on stock adjustment, coupled with its 11.25-pound weight (with an empty magazine), provides a stable and manageable platform. This weight distribution aids in recoil absorption and contributes to a steady hold, especially beneficial for sustained firing or rapid engagements.

The Power and Versatility of 7.62x51mm NATO (.308 WIN)

The M1A Loaded is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, a caliber fully compatible with commercial .308 Winchester ammunition. This is one of the most popular and versatile cartridges in the world, offering a potent combination of power, accuracy, and availability.

• Proven Performance: The .308 WIN is renowned for its ballistic efficiency, flat trajectory, and excellent terminal performance. It's a staple for competitive long-range shooting, hunting medium to large game, and tactical applications.
• Ammunition Availability: Being one of the most common rifle calibers globally, .308 WIN ammunition is widely available in a vast array of bullet weights and types, from precision match loads to hunting rounds, offering shooters immense flexibility.
• Effective Range: With the M1A Loaded's inherent accuracy enhancements, the .308 WIN cartridge is effective out to significant distances, making it suitable for engaging targets beyond 600 yards with proper technique and optics.
• Reliability: The 7.62x51mm NATO round is a robust military cartridge, designed for reliability in diverse environments, a characteristic that perfectly complements the M1A platform's legendary durability.

The Enduring Legacy of the M1A/M14 Platform

The M1A is the civilian semi-automatic version of the iconic M14 rifle, which served as the standard-issue service rifle for the U.S. military from 1959 to 1970. Descended from the revered M1 Garand, the M14 combined the Garand's proven gas system and robust action with a detachable box magazine and the more powerful 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge. Its reputation for reliability, power, and surprising accuracy for a combat rifle quickly cemented its place in military history. Even after being largely replaced by the M16, the M14 continued to see service as a designated marksman rifle and in specialized roles due to its long-range effectiveness and stopping power.

Springfield Armory, known for its commitment to historical accuracy and quality manufacturing, has faithfully reproduced this legendary design in the M1A series. The M1A Loaded takes this a step further by integrating modern competitive enhancements while retaining the robust construction and classic aesthetics that define the platform. Owning an M1A Loaded is not just about having a high-performance rifle; it's about holding a piece of American firearms history, updated for today's most demanding shooting scenarios.

Why Choose the M1A Loaded for Your Shooting Needs?

If you find yourself asking "What's the best rifle for competitive shooting without custom shop prices?" or "How can I achieve consistent long-range accuracy with a classic platform?", the M1A Loaded is a compelling answer. It offers:

• Out-of-the-Box Precision: You don't need to send this rifle to a specialized gunsmith for upgrades. The National Match barrel, trigger, and sights provide match-grade performance right from the factory.
• Cost-Effectiveness: While a significant investment, the M1A Loaded provides features that would typically cost much more to have custom-fitted or installed on a standard rifle. It's an economical pathway to high-level performance.
• Versatility: Suitable for a wide array of applications including competitive target shooting (e.g., NRA High Power, service rifle competitions), long-range precision, hunting, and as a reliable, powerful general-purpose rifle.
• Durability and Reliability: Built on the robust and combat-proven M14 design, the M1A Loaded is engineered to withstand demanding use and provide consistent performance even in challenging conditions.
• Adjustable Ergonomics: The precision adjustable stock ensures the rifle can be perfectly tailored to the shooter, promoting better form, reducing fatigue, and enhancing accuracy.
• Iconic Status: Beyond performance, the M1A Loaded offers the aesthetic appeal and historical significance of the M14, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The Springfield Armory M1A Loaded rifle (SKU MP9220) is more than just a firearm; it's a meticulously engineered tool designed to elevate your shooting performance. It's built for those who appreciate the best of both worlds: the timeless appeal of a military classic combined with the precision enhancements demanded by today's most serious shooters. Whether you're chasing championship titles, striving for personal bests on the firing line, or simply seeking a high-quality, reliable, and powerful rifle, the M1A Loaded stands ready to exceed expectations. Discover the difference that factory-optimized performance can make in your shooting experience.

Detailed Specifications

Feature	Description
Caliber	7.62x51mm NATO (.308 WIN)
Length	45" - 46.25"
Front Sight	National Match .062" Blade
Rear Sight	Match Grade (Non-Hooded .0520") Aperture with 1/2 MOA Windage, 1 MOA Elevation
Barrel	22" 1:11" RH Twist National Match Medium Weight Premium Air Gauged Carbon Steel
Weight (Empty Magazine)	11.25 Pounds
Magazines Included	1 - 10 Round
Stock	Precision Adjustable
Trigger	National Match Tuned 4.5-5 Pound 2-Stage
SKU	MP9220
UPC	706397900793