Civilian clone M14/ M1A receiver recommendation

[general Ike]

Alright all is this any good? Here is what I found a Pre ban SA reciever with TRW bolt; HR Barrel Trigger Group; SA Op-Rod asking $1500.00. Looks decent , very little use. Ok deal great deal or a steal? Best of all its local so easy to "see and touch".

What else should I look for and ask? Thanks

[snapperm1c]

great deal >> steal, IMO.

[Maniac]

Ditto what snapperm1c said . . . especially if its a receiver that has "7.62-mm M1A" stamped on it.
If you're a purist, make sure there are no "Genesco, Il" stamps or any other non-USGI markings on the barrel or receiver. These won't affect the weapon's functionality but it's nicer not to have them IMO

[glg20]

Let us know. Sounds like a good one.
I don't recall exactly when SA dropped the 7.62 heel markings. My SA has a 1990 build date and it has the 7.62.

[Maniac]

Let us know. Sounds like a good one.
I don't recall exactly when SA dropped the 7.62 heel markings. My SA has a 1990 build date and it has the 7.62.

Glg20, I believe SAI dropped the 7.62-mm designation around 063000. On the low end, according to Lee Emerson the receivers have thickest heels beginning with serial # 030061 so if one could be found between those serial numbers it would be a real good one. The older SAI receivers are generally considered to be closer to USGI specs than newer ones.is your receiver below 063000?

[general Ike]

Hello all and thanks again. What is the importance/significances in the marking "7.62-mm M1A" is it a change in the quality/spec compliance of the receiver or does it have some other significance? Thanks

[Maniac]

Hello all and thanks again. What is the importance/significances in the marking "7.62-mm M1A" is it a change in the quality/spec compliance of the receiver or does it have some other significance? Thanks

None of the above, general Ike. The "7.62-mm M1A" marking closely mimics the "7.62-mm M14" markings on an actual USGI M14 receiver. This might have appeal to an M14 aficianado but has no effect on the quality. It is true that the rear of the heels are progressively thinner in receivers below 030061 but those older ones, especially those with the "Devine" markings are very collectible in their own right. All carry the lifetime warrantee, regardless of when made.
All this info is available in the Lee Emerson's (Different)sticky at the top of this forum. HTH

[general Ike]

Charlie, again greatly appreciate all your help. I looked thru the stickys but thought that sticky was something I had already downloaded , but it is not, some great historical info. I looked thru it a few times and I cannot find the reference to the receiver markings, hate to ask but what page is the info on? Thanks Ike

[Maniac]

I'm running off my BlackBerry right now so I can't answer your question, general Ike. Lee's info on the M14 above also includes data on many of the commercial M14 receivers It is also in his hardcover books, I have the 2nd division. When I can get hooked up to my laptop I'll get back to you on this. HTH

[glg20]

Glg20, I believe SAI dropped the 7.62-mm designation around 063000. On the low end, according to Lee Emerson the receivers have thickest heels beginning with serial # 030061 so if one could be found between those serial numbers it would be a real good one. The older SAI receivers are generally considered to be closer to USGI specs than newer ones.is your receiver below 063000?

You are correct. My SN 624XX
Lee's work is excellent. I have read his works several times over the last few years. I actually contributed a tiny bit to the book as I knew someone that had bought one of the DOE M14 rifles. As I have gotten older it is hard to recall anything. Remember its the mileage not the years for a lot of folks!