Edumacation on M14's/M305's

[H Wally]

Looks like I've drifted back into the M14 realm again. Last time I handled an M14 was several years ago and was overall disinterested in them.... however... things have changed and I'm back in the market.

However, last time I got into M14's, I found they were having all sorts of trouble from poorly indexed barrels to various rubbing internal parts to actual Kabooms and other pretty nasty failures.

So, I'm wondering if there are any major lookout points on this series of guns - I know there have been numerous waves of importation each with their own pros and cons. I also know many people do their own fixes to the guns, as shown by the in depth stickies at the top of the page that I've been reading. So, if you've got any input on how I can inspect for a good M14 or what I might expect to pay for a plain jane good shooting rifle I'm interested in hearing.

 

[H Wally]

Nothing eh?

 

[hend238]

Do you want to go the Norinco, Springfield or LRB path? It might help guys to answer your question if they knew how much you are willing to spend. There are many Noricos and a few Springfields selling on the EE at any given time. There might still be an LRB for sale right now too. Check out those prices and you'll have an idea what you can expect to pay. As for what to look for? I'll leave that to people who know more than I do. My advice is to buy a Springfield if you have or want to spend that kind of cash, though it is not necessary. If you want an in-expensive M1A and possibly need to put some work into it to make it function properly, then buy a Norinco. I own a custom National Match but have been considering buying a Norinco for the heck of it and to tinker with it so I can learn more about the platform without messing with my Springfield.