Description
Picture this: you’re at the range, and the guy next to you is methodically punching one ragged hole after another at 200 yards with a classic-looking rifle. He’s not fussing with a custom-built chassis system or a space-age polymer stock. He’s using a refined version of a legendary battle rifle. That’s the essence of the Springfield M1A National Match 308 22″ Match SS Barrel, Walnut Stock, 10 Rd Mag. It’s a purpose-built, out-of-the-box competition rifle that bridges the gap between historical pedigree and modern precision, all for a price that undercuts many custom builds.
The Springfield M1A National Match is a semi-automatic, .308 Winchester/7.62x51mm NATO competition rifle built to National Match specifications. It features a 22-inch stainless steel match-grade barrel, a glass-bedded genuine American walnut stock, and a tuned trigger for enhanced accuracy. It ships with a 10-round magazine and is designed for competitive shooting disciplines like NRA High Power, offering serious performance without the need for immediate aftermarket upgrades. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
So, what do you get for your $2306.09? The heart of this rifle is its 22-inch, medium-weight, stainless steel match barrel. It’s button-rifled and air-gauged to exacting tolerances, providing the consistent harmonics and bore dimensions needed for tight groups. This isn’t a standard-issue barrel; it’s the foundation of the rifle’s sub-MOA potential. Springfield then glass-beds the receiver into that beautiful walnut stock. This process eliminates shifting and stress points, creating a stable, repeatable union between metal and wood that’s crucial for match-grade consistency. The result is a rifle that fits out of the box and is ready for the firing line.
The upgrades continue with the trigger group. The two-stage military-style trigger is tuned for a crisp, clean break, typically around 4.5 to 5 pounds. It’s a significant improvement over a standard M1A, giving you the control needed for precise shot execution. The sights are pure competition: a National Match front sight with a tight .052″ blade and a National Match rear aperture with 1/2 MOA windage and 1 MOA elevation clicks. You get precise, repeatable adjustments for dialing in your dope. Look, you could spend years and more money trying to bring a standard M1A to this level. Here, it’s done for you.
| Caliber | .308 Winchester / 7.62x51mm NATO |
| Barrel | 22″ Match Grade Stainless Steel, 1:11 Twist |
| Overall Length | 44.33″ |
| Weight (empty) | Approx. 9.3 lbs |
| Stock | Glass-Bedded American Walnut |
| Magazine | 10-Round Detachable Box |
Pros: Delivers authentic, competition-ready performance directly from the factory. The glass-bedded walnut stock and match barrel provide exceptional stability for the price. The tuned trigger and National Match sights are major upgrades over the standard model. It maintains the iconic M1A/M14 platform appeal and is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories from brands like Sadlak Industries and Bassett Machine for those who want to tweak further.
Cons: At over nine pounds, it’s not a light rifle for long carry sessions. The walnut stock, while classic, can be sensitive to humidity changes compared to synthetic options. It’s a semi-automatic platform, so ultimate benchrest precision will typically be edged out by a high-quality bolt-action at a similar price point. That said, for its intended use in service rifle competition, it’s a formidable tool.
This rifle is for the shooter who values a proven platform and wants to step into competitive shooting like NRA High Power without starting from scratch. It’s for the enthusiast who appreciates the history of the M14 but demands modern accuracy. It’s also a smart buy for the practical marksman who wants a durable, powerful, and incredibly capable rifle that can serve double duty on the range and, if ever needed, in a defensive role. The 10-round magazine capacity keeps it compliant for use in many states while remaining practical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How accurate can I expect this rifle to be?
A: With quality .308 Winchester match ammunition, sub-Minute of Angle (MOA) groups are a realistic expectation from a rest. The glass-bedding, match barrel, and tuned trigger are all specifically engineered to achieve this level of precision, making it capable of holding the X-ring at distance.
Q: Is it compatible with standard M1A/M14 parts and magazines?
A: Yes, it uses the standard M1A pattern. You can use aftermarket magazines from companies like Check-Mate Industries, and many internal components are mil-spec compatible. The walnut stock is inlet for the standard M1A receiver, though the glass-bedding is best left undisturbed.
Q: Can I mount an optic on this model?
A: The National Match model is configured with traditional iron sights for competition. To mount a scope, you would need to install a receiver-mounted scope mount, such as those from Springfield Armory or Sadlak Industries, which replace the stripper clip guide. The rifle itself is not drilled and tapped for a conventional scope base.
Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, the Springfield M1A National Match represents a significant value. It packages serious competition features at a point where you’re paying for performance, not just a name. If you’re looking for a ready-made classic that shoots like a modern champion, this rifle deserves a close look.
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