Both are great rifle. They are both pretty easy to clean and maintain and disassemble. Both are mag fed semi auto and easy to use with simple controls.
M1A - if you are getting an origional and not a Norinco then it will be close to $2000 and the short versions restricted.
It's more expensive to shoot, factory or reloading
IT's heavy, well compared to an AR-15 anyways.
If it matters there is more recoil etc
Non adjustable stock length (for your boy if it matters)
Non-restricted version is legal to hunt with anywhere
You can buy a Norico version for $400 give or take and tweak it yourself easily
AR-15
Lots of good models and makes from $1000 to $3000
Lighter and less recoil
Adjustable stock and barrel lenghts
Cheaper to shoot
Can't hunt with it period
Some versions might not be able to keep long range performance with a Springfield M1A National match
Just my two cents
Sosa
PS I own three of each
