Thank you Sarge. Really appreciate this info. This kind of backs up what I have now heard at the local gun store. ie Some of the first imports had issues, and people have (through the wonderful interweb) perpetuated these. Also seems that the receivers of the Polytechs are actually solid and often used as the basis for match rifles (they are forged I hear). My only issue now is to figure out how to get or make 10/20 magazines for the thing as I live in Der republic of Kaliforniaski and I'm only allowed 10 rounders but the M14icon looks better with a 20 round mag.