M14 Rifle

[SWO]

Over the last few years I've seen the SEALs working with the M14 (in a couple of configurations) at various PA events and in official PA photos. In particular, have noticed the use of at least 4 different stocks: standard issue wood/fiberglass, modified standard stock (with aftermarket forward grip), issue M14A1 stock (with integral pistol grip), and folding stock. Any idea why so many variants have been/are being used? Does it have anything to do with whether or not the specific gun is selective fire (semi/auto) or semi only? Given all the official info available on the M14 and its use by SpecOps, don't think this is a sensitive OPSEC issue (or I wouldn't ask), but it does seem interesting that there appear to have been be so many variants of this gun in recent use. For those in the know, any preferences on stock type?

[JY]

Hi SWO;

The M14 is pretty much a dead case except with the SEALs, 90% of them are selective fire in SOCOM units so stock will not tell if is selective fire or semi auto only. All units still have both the standard M14 amd M21s in the arms room(never turn in usable weapons).

The stocks themselves are generally what the operator prefers. The folders were originally from the Italian BM59 Para rifle, modified slightly to fit the M14(One reason the BM59 stocks are hard to come by now). As with the folder, forward pistol grips and such are usually the M14A1 SAW stock modified (on this one you have a rear pistol grip and a folding front grip and a paddle shaped butt.

Hope this helps out, it's a confusing area if you aren't in the field, SOF units have a lot of lee way in how weapons are modified, what weapons are used and such. If I can help any further please feel free to ask.

take care...Jim