If that title made you laugh, it wasn’t supposed to. The M14 is one of the most maligned service rifles in American history, and for good reason.
Don’t let its superficial similarity to the venerable M1 Garand throw you for a loop. The M14 was plagued by a long, long list of problems.
Common issues and complaints associated with the M14 included brittle receivers, instability, bolts that were poorly formed or mated to the rifle, inaccuracy, and much worse. Some of these problems had to do with the rifle’s actual parts; many were flaws in design and production.
Perhaps the saddest thing about the rifle’s ultimate failure is the fact that Springfield Armory basically went belly up as a result. (The modern Springfield Armory, which still operates, is not related to the former entity.)
At any rate, if you are the owner of one of these rifles, keep the following M14 parts around (or a shop that can get them on speed dial). You’re going to need them.
1. Op rod guide
A binding operating rod can ultimately cripple a rifle that relies on one, like an M1 Garand or an M14.
Binding bolts and op rods were apparently common problems associated with M14 rifles. If you have this issue, make a preemptive fix and save yourself the trouble with cycling and accuracy in the long run.
2. Spring guide
An M14 spring guide is also reported by some users to make a positive influence on accuracy, but the real reason for this suggestion is to help minimize fatigue in the spring.
A spring guide will help prevent kinking, which will keep the spring operational and stronger for longer.
3. A new bolt
Basically the same issue as with the op rod; if the bolt binds or seizes, it will be difficult or impossible for the rifle to cycle. It can also cause issues with accuracy and cause premature wear on the receiver.
Replace your bolt if it’s not well matched to the gun.
4. A fiberglass stock
The wood stock was a problem with the M14 almost since the first issue. Not only was it unwieldy, but it swelled with moisture, causing problems with accuracy.
Also, proper bedding is necessary to ensure accuracy with an M14; with a wooden stock, minor variations in temperature and moisture can cause significant problems here, so a fiberglass upgrade is necessary to improve accuracy in most cases.
5. A corrosion-resistant firing pin
A common upgrade for some M14 owners is a corrosion-resistant firing pin like a chrome-plated model. While this won’t make the firing pin stronger, it will give it an added measure of resilience against chemical attack.
6. A new set of springs
Finally, a new set of springs. This is not a specific issue for the M14, but springs are generally the first thing to go on any gun.
The point being, maybe you actually lucked out and got one of the good M14 rifles. Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater; perhaps all you need are some new springs to revitalize feeding, firing, and cycling.
Where Can You Find These M14 Parts?
Not every shop on the corner carries M14 parts. In fact, most of them probably don’t.
The exception to this rule is SARCO, Inc., at 50 Hilton Street in Easton, Pennsylvania. They carry one of the industry’s largest assortments of parts for hard-to-find firearms – like the M14.
And, just in case they’re not on your corner, they’re open for business (and on your virtual corner) at SarcoInc.com, where you can find a catalog of parts and accessories that is every bit as impressive.
Don’t let a faulty M14 get you down. Upgrade the lacking parts and bring them back to life.
