Ar in 308

[Sixgun]

For the guys that have them , do you like them. I'm shifting my thoughts on a new ar-15 to a 308. I like the m1A but there're alittle more
cash. I could wait few months a have it, but who likes waiting.

[ssf467]

Me DPMS has been faithful. The 300 RSUM kicks like a mule.

[Gman]

I was going through the same decision making process. I like the AR platform. There have been a number of .308 ARs that have had reliability problems with the bolts, usually due to removal of locking lugs to allow dual column feeding. The problem was bad enough that Bushmaster gave up on the idea and RRA was going to pick it up and move it forward but I have yet to see a LAR-8 in the wild. DPMS seems to be selling more of them than anyone.

One of the things I like about the AR platform is that they're light. When I started comparing the .308 ARs, they typically weigh as much or more than an M1A. The standard M1A with a 22" bbl and the fiberglass stock is 9.3lbs. The RRA LAR-8 A2 is 9.3 pounds. The DPMS LR-308C weighs 11.15 pounds.

Adding optics to an AR platform is much easier.

Then I started thinking about the method of operating the action. Direct impingement gas works well for the little 5.56x45. The .30 caliber battle rifles have a long history of working very well using a similar short stroke piston in the M1 Garand and M14/M1A.

Essentially, I figured if I could only have 1, I'd save my pennies and go with what is proven. Picked up my M1A yesterday. [Ban3]
http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii123/gmchenry/M1Asm.gif

Good luck in your quest. ;)

[bjl913]

Congrats Gman! And I will also give the same input! I have only dabbled with the M1A platform, but have had much luck with the M1 Garand in both -06 and .308! The direct gas system after a little research does seem a little much for an AR type rifle. Theres a reason why john garand went with a piston design!

[Marlin]

FAL-FTW

Maybe not as accurate as the M1A,, But, less expensive, easier to maintain, Cheaper Mags, And, Not always the case, less tempermental..

[7idl]

I've got an M1A (SA) and an FAL (Imbel).

the M1A is hands down a better rifle.

but, you could get both and have two of the best battle rifles around :D

[Boat Guy]

I've had both for some time. I'm one of the few ArmaLite owners who's happy with my AR-10. I bought an ArmaLite M15 and had trouble with it. Had nothing but trouble with the "new" AR-10 mags (took back every single one I bought for malfunctions).
Soooo: my recommendation is the M1A, either the full-size or Scout version. Avoid both the SOCOM I and II.

[Hoser]

I had a SR-25. I really liked it and really regret selling it a few years ago.