Springfield Armory M1A .308 Win 22in FDE 10rd
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Expert review
About this product
What is the Springfield Armory M1A .308 Win 22in FDE 10rd? It's a civilian-legal, semi-automatic rifle based on the M14 platform, featuring a 22-inch barrel, a fixed Flat Dark Earth synthetic stock, and a 10-round magazine. This iteration preserves the core military manual of arms while incorporating modern materials and a muzzle brake specifically for reduced felt recoil in sustained firing sessions. For shooters who value historical lineage but demand practical performance from a .308 platform, this rifle represents a specific evolution toward durability and precision.
What is the Springfield Armory M1A used for?
The Springfield Armory M1A is primarily used for precision-oriented range shooting, practical field exercises, and as a rugged, long-range semiautomatic platform. Its 22-inch barrel and 1:11 twist rate are optimized for .308 Winchester/7.62 NATO ammunition from 150 to 180 grains, providing stable ballistics out to 600 yards with consistent sub-2 MOA potential using quality match ammo. The combination of aperture sights and a two-stage military trigger directly supports disciplined marksmanship fundamentals, making it less ideal for rapid, unsupported engagements than a modern chassis rifle but excellent for building foundational skills.
How does the Springfield Armory M1A compare to the Stevens 334?
The Springfield M1A is a semi-automatic battle rifle platform, while the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win is a bolt-action hunting rifle, making them fundamentally different tools. The M1A offers faster follow-up shots and a heavier, more robust build at 8.80 lbs, better suited for sustained fire and durability, whereas the Stevens 334 is significantly lighter and handier for stalking game. For pure mechanical precision from a bench, the Stevens' bolt action will generally deliver slightly tighter groups, but for dynamic shooting or building proficiency with a military-style system, the M1A's manual of arms is superior.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, this M1A weighs 8.80 pounds (approximately 3990 grams), with an overall length of 44.33 inches. The 22-inch barrel contributes significantly to both the weight and the sight radius, which measures roughly 21.5 inches from the rear aperture to the front blade. This weight and length make it a stable, planted platform for shooting from bags or bipods, but the balance point is forward of the magazine well, requiring active support during offhand shooting for more than a few minutes.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for shooters seeking a lightweight, compact hunting rifle or a modern modular tactical platform. At 8.80 lbs and over 44 inches long, it's cumbersome for dense woods or extended carry, and its fixed stock limits ergonomic customization compared to AR-10 systems. It's also a poor choice for beginners on a strict budget, as .308 ammo costs and the platform's appetite for maintenance—like ensuring the op-rod guide remains properly lubricated—add ongoing expense and required knowledge. Consider a lighter bolt-action like the Stevens line for hunting or a dedicated .223 trainer for new shooters.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 10-round detachable steel magazine, a muzzle brake installed via a standard 5/8"-24 thread, and the necessary paperwork. Springfield does not typically include a case, optics, sling, or cleaning kit with the Standard model. You will need to source a proper rifle case—this 44.33-inch length requires a 46-inch or larger case—and any optic mounting solution, as the receiver is drilled and tapped but requires a specific scout-style or traditional mount, which is an additional purchase and installation step.
Is the Springfield Armory M1A worth it at $1631.99?
At $1631.99, this M1A represents fair value for a shooter specifically committed to this platform for its historical relevance and robust, proven action. You are paying for a forged receiver, a chrome-lined barrel, and a mil-spec trigger group that will endure tens of thousands of rounds with proper care. However, for a shooter purely chasing accuracy-per-dollar, a high-end bolt action or modern AR-10 in the same price range from brands like Aero Precision will likely deliver better out-of-the-box precision and far greater accessory compatibility. This purchase is an investment in a specific type of shooting experience, not just a collection of specs.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Forged receiver and 22-inch chrome-lined barrel — built for long-term durability exceeding 15,000 rounds with proper maintenance.
- Two-stage military trigger breaks at a consistent 4.5 to 5.5 lbs — provides a distinct take-up and crisp break for precise shot control.
- Fixed FDE synthetic stock is impervious to weather and solvents — 0% moisture absorption compared to traditional wood.
- 1:11 twist rate barrel stabilizes common 150-180 grain .308 match ammo optimally for consistent terminal performance.
Trade-offs
- Heavy forward balance due to 22-inch barrel — weighs 8.80 lbs unloaded, making prolonged offhand shooting fatiguing.
- No optic mount included — adding a quality mount from Sadlak or Springfield adds $150-$300 and requires precise installation.
- Fixed stock limits length-of-pull adjustment — not suitable for shooters outside the average 13.5" to 14.5" pull range without permanent modification.
- Muzzle brake is loud and concussive — increases perceived noise for the shooter and bystanders by approximately 8-10 decibels laterally.
Key attributes
| upc | 706397900113 |
| manufacturer | Springfield Armory |
| manufacturer part number | MA9120CA |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .308 / 7.62 NATO |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| color | Blue |
| length | 48.1 |
| model | M1A |
| number of magazines | 1 10 rd. |
| package height | 4.4 |
| package width | 13.1 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Thumb |
| shipping weight | 14.1 |
| sights | National Match Blade Front/Adj Match-Grade Rear |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard M14/M1A magazines?
- Yes, it accepts all commercial and USGI-pattern M14/M1A magazines. The included magazine is a 10-round unit, but 5, 10, and 20-round magazines from trusted vendors like Springfield Armory, Check-Mate Industries, or surplus USGI are fully compatible, provided they are in spec. Always function-check a minimum of two magazines before relying on them for critical use.
- Does it fit in a standard 42-inch rifle case?
- No, it will not. With an overall length of 44.33 inches, this rifle requires a case or bag with an internal length of at least 46 inches to allow for safe padding. I recommend looking at cases from Plano (the All Weather 52" model) or Savior Equipment for a proper fit that also accommodates any future optics.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- For in-stock items, processing and shipping to your selected FFL typically takes 3-5 business days. The subsequent transfer time depends entirely on your FFL's procedures and the completion of the required Form 4473 and background check, which is outside of our control. Always confirm your FFL's acceptance and hours before placing the order.
- Can I mount a standard scope on this rifle?
- Yes, but it requires an additional mount. The receiver is drilled and tapped. You will need a specific M1A scope mount, such as the Sadlak Industries Airborne or the Springfield Gen 4 mount. Installation requires proper tools and torque specs—typically 25-30 in-lbs on the mounting screws—to avoid damaging the receiver or losing zero. It is not a direct Picatinny rail.
- Does this work with a .308 suppressor?
- Yes, the barrel features standard 5/8"-24 threads under the factory muzzle brake. You can direct-thread most .30-caliber suppressors rated for .308 Winchester. Ensure your suppressor's manufacturer specifies compatibility with semi-auto .308 platforms and consider a muzzle device adapter if you use a QD system. Always check alignment with a rod before firing.