Springfield M1A SOCOM 16 CQB
The M14 is an iconic US battle rifle and Springfield Armory is known for their civilian-legal M14s. Over the years, Springfield has manufactured many different types of M14s under the name of the M1A.
As smaller, lighter rifles became more popular, Springfield introduced the SOCOM 16. With a barrel 6 inches shorter than the standard M14, this rifle offers a more compact, full powered semi-automatic rifle for those who prefer the style of the M14.
This brings us to the SOCOM 16 CQB. This version of the SOCOM 16 emphasizes the tactical nature of the platform, allowing for better handling and modification than a stock M14.
The CQB brings modern accessory rails and an adjustable stock to the classic M14 action, bringing it closer to modern standards for self-defense. This is emphasized by a pistol grip and optics mounting options.
Springfield M1A SOCOM 16 CQB Standard Features
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The SOCOM 16 CQB is a semi-automatic, gas piston operated rifle chambered in .308 Winchester/7.62x51 NATO. This provides a full powered rifle cartridge in a gun that is similar in length to a standard AR-15.
One of the major aspects that sets this rifle apart from its M14 heritage is the stock. While polymer stocks have been used on the M14 during its service life, the adjustable buttstock and AK-style pistol grip are a bid to compete with the modularity of the AR-15’s buttstock.
The entire polymer stock is referred to as the Archangel composite chassis. This helps make the gun less susceptible to changes in temperature and less dependent on quality wood to get the best results out of the rifle.
There are three M-lok slots on the foregrip of the gun. These allow you to mount grip enhancers and lights, which increase the functionality of the CQB itself.
Right in front of the ejection port and on top of the operating rod, there is a section of Picatinny rail. This will allow you to mount an optic in the traditional “scout rifle” style. This places a magnified optic farther away from your eye, providing better eye relief but ultimately narrows your sighting options.
To help deal with this and increase the effectiveness of the rifle at close quarters, a red dot can be mounted on the stripper clip bridge above the action. Some versions of the CQB come with a pre-mounted Vortex Venom red dot sight. Red dots tend to be better for dynamic environments when fast, accurate shooting takes precedence over careful precision. If you prefer to not have an optic on your rifle, the CQB features an adjustable rear sight and Tritium front post for an updated M14 sight picture.
A proprietary muzzle device helps tame the recoil of the gun and ensures the smallest footprint possible for the front of the gun.
Like all M14 variants, the CQB has a reciprocating charging handle on the right-hand side. The base magazine is 10 rounds but the rifle itself can accept any M14 compatible magazine.
Variants:
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Price:$2,069-$2,600
M1A SOCOM 16 CQB SPECIFICATIONS
The SOCOM 16 CQB is a modern take on a classic rifle.
It offers a powerful cartridge in a semi-automatic package, and the CQB specifically has multiple advantages over a base M14, particularly the ability to mount optics and accessories.
However, in order to get the most out of the gun you need to understand its limitations. While the base iron sights and pre-mounted red dots allow for good accuracy it is still a heavy rifle, coming 2 pounds heavier than a loaded M4A1 when it is unloaded. In addition, the open action allows debris to enter the inner workings of the gun too easily when compared to more closed designs.
Adding optics, accessories, or larger magazines will increase the weight you’ll have to carry when using this rifle. Additionally you’ll be carrying a heavier rifle with a hefty price tag. There are a number of alternatives at a fraction of the cost that will do the same job.
Now if you specifically prefer an M14-style rifle, you’ll already know the pros and cons of the rifle. You might live in an area where AR-15 or AK style rifles are banned, then the CQB becomes a viable option.
If you need a rifle and the CQB is the only legal option, you really have no other choice. This doesn’t mean you are at a severe disadvantage, it just means you need to understand the nuances of the rifle to get the best results.
| Attribute | Spec |
|---|---|
| Action: | Semi-automatic, gas operated, gas piston |
| Caliber: | .308 Win (7.62x51 NATO) |
| Capacity: | 10 (Compatible with any M14 Magazine) |
| Barrel Length: | 16.25 inches |
| Weight: | 9.2 pounds (9.3 pounds with Vortex Venom sight) |
| Overall Length: | 35.5-38.5 inches (adjustable stock length) |
| Twist Rate: | 1:11 inches |
| Stock: | CQB Adjustable |
| Sights: | Ghost Ring .135 Aperture adjustable rear, XS ® Post w/ Tritium Insert front, Vortex Venom Red Dot (Model dependent) |