Springfield Armory M1A Loaded Precision .308 Win 22″ Carbon Barrel
About this product
The Springfield Armory M1A Loaded Precision .308 Win 22″ Carbon Barrel is a semi-automatic battle rifle platform re-engineered for long-range precision with a National Match carbon-fiber barrel and an adjustable target chassis. It retains the classic M14 operating system, but its components are selected and tuned specifically to reduce weight and enhance mechanical consistency for repeatable sub-MOA accuracy. This isn't a retro plinker; it’s a modern interpretation built for shooters who require the action's reliability in a package capable of consistent precision work.What is the Springfield M1A Loaded Precision used for?
This rifle is designed for mid-to-long-range precision shooting on static ranges and in tactical competition environments like NRA High Power or PRS Gas Gun matches. Its 22-inch carbon-wrapped barrel provides the velocity and rigidity necessary for engaging targets out to 800 yards and beyond with match-grade ammunition. The adjustable Archangel stock allows for a perfect cheek weld and length of pull to manage recoil from the .308 Winchester cartridge effectively, which is critical for maintaining sight picture during rapid-fire strings. The two-stage match trigger, breaking at a consistent 4.5 pounds of pull, enables precise shot placement without disturbing the rifle’s natural point of aim.
How does the Springfield M1A Loaded Precision compare to the Stevens 334 rifle?
The M1A Loaded Precision is a purpose-built semi-automatic precision platform, whereas the Stevens 334 is a cost-effective bolt-action hunting rifle. The M1A is superior for rapid, repeatable engagements and is engineered to handle the thermal stresses of sustained fire without significant point-of-impact shift, thanks to its carbon-fiber barrel. The Stevens 334 is the better choice for a hunter or budget-minded shooter who values a simpler, lighter package; the M1A, at over 11 pounds, demands a dedicated support system and a shooter willing to manage its weight for the benefit of its semi-auto action and superior out-of-the-box match-grade ergonomics.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
With its carbon-wrapped medium-profile barrel and synthetic stock, the rifle weighs in at 11.2 pounds unloaded and measures 44.75 inches in overall length. The 22-inch barrel features a 1:11 inch right-hand twist rate, optimized for stabilizing 168 to 175-grain match bullets, and its main body diameter is 1.125 inches. The adjustable stock provides a length-of-pull range from 13.5 to 14.5 inches and a comb height adjustable over 0.75 inches, allowing precise fitment for virtually any shooter and optic combination.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for the casual plinker, the budget-limited hunter, or anyone seeking a lightweight, compact package. Its weight, price point, and specialized design make it overkill for simple 100-yard range trips or general deer hunting, especially when compared to lighter bolt-actions. It is also ill-suited for someone unwilling to invest in quality optics and mounts; the platform's accuracy potential is wasted with a cheap scope, as its iron sights, while excellent, are meant for a specific type of competition. For a straightforward hunting tool, consider the Stevens 334 in .243 Win.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle, one 10-round steel detachable magazine, and basic owner’s documentation. Springfield does not include a hard case, a scope mount, or any cleaning equipment. The flash suppressor is properly indexed and torqued from the factory onto the .595x32 threaded muzzle, but compatibility with common muzzle devices may require an adapter. A critical first purchase is a suitable scope mount, like the Sadlak or Springfield Armory Gen 4 mount, which adds both cost and an installation step before the rifle is range-ready.
Is the Springfield M1A Loaded Precision worth it at $1939.99?
Yes, for the shooter who needs a reliable, match-ready .308 semi-auto right out of the box. The premium covers the specialized carbon barrel, the National Match sights and trigger, and the adjustable stock, which together would cost significantly more to source and mount separately on a base M1A. It's a justifiable investment for a competitor or precision rifle course attendee who values platform familiarity and rapid follow-up shot capability over the ultimate accuracy of a custom bolt-action. If your primary use is single-shot benchrest shooting at 1000 yards, this is not the most efficient tool, but for versatile, rapid precision, it delivers tangible value.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Carbon-wrapped 22-inch barrel reduces weight by approximately 1.5 lbs vs. a comparable steel contour and mitigates point-of-impact shift during sustained fire.
- Two-stage National Match trigger provides a crisp 4.5 lb break—a consistent 2 lb improvement over the standard M1A trigger pull.
- Fully adjustable Archangel stock offers 1 inch of length-of-pull and 0.75 inches of comb height adjustment for perfect optic alignment.
- Match-grade .062" front sight blade and aperture rear are competition-ready and vastly superior to standard G.I. sights.
Trade-offs
- No scope mount included—adds a minimum of $150-300 and requires proper tools for installation to realize the rifle's long-range potential.
- At 11.2 lbs unloaded, it is 4 lbs heavier than a bolt-action like the Stevens 334 in the same caliber, demanding a stable shooting position or bipod.
- The .595x32 muzzle thread is proprietary; attaching common muzzle devices requires an adapter, adding cost and length.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 706397900755 |
| manufacturer | Springfield Armory |
| manufacturer part number | MP9226 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Carbon |
| barrel length | 22'' |
| caliber/gauge | .308 / 7.62 NATO |
| capacity | 10-Round |
| color | Black |
| length | 47.6000 |
| model | M1A |
| number of magazines | 1 10 rd. |
| package height | 4.5 |
| package width | 13.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Ambidextrous |
| shipping weight | 17.4 |
| sights | National Match Blade Front/Adj Match-Grade Rear |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| state restriction (pr) | Puerto Rico |
| state restriction (vi) | Virgin Islands |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard M1A/M14 scope mounts?
- Yes, it uses the standard M1A receiver mounting interface. However, I recommend a rigid, one-piece steel mount from Sadlak or Springfield Armory to maintain zero under recoil and thermal cycling. The Springfield Armory Gen 4 mount, for example, requires 35 inch-pounds of torque on its mounting screws for a secure fit.
- Does this rifle accept aftermarket M14 stocks?
- It accepts standard M14 pattern stocks, but the Archangel Precision stock it comes with is non-traditional. Swapping to a classic walnut or fiberglass stock will require a different operating rod guide and potentially altering the gas system fitment. This is a 45-minute to hour-long job for a competent armorer.
- How long does shipping to an FFL take?
- Ironclad Armory processes and ships all firearms within one business day of FFL verification. Transit time via FedEx or UPS Ground is typically 3-5 business days to most continental U.S. locations. You must provide your chosen FFL's license to our customer service team before the order is released.
- Can the flash suppressor be removed for a muzzle brake or suppressor?
- Yes, the barrel is threaded .595x32 under the National Match flash suppressor, which is secured with rocksett. Heat application (approx. 500°F for 2-3 minutes) and a proper armorer's wrench are required for safe removal. For suppressor use, you will need a muzzle device adapter from companies like Smith Enterprise or Springfield Armory to interface with common 5/8x24 or similar suppressor mounts.