[Johnnycat]

Let's assume I had my heart set on an M1a. Keep in mind i'm only an average shooter.

If I wanted a good rifle for Appleseed shoots, is the Supermatch worth the extra $1800?

If not, where do you draw the line? Stock M1a, National Match, Suoermatch, etc?

Is the M1a even the best choice (I like the caliber, detachable mag, semi-auto action, and the m14 platform) or is there better?

[Whootsinator]

ANY M1A will be an awesome Appleseed rifle. And ANY M1A will be top-notch. Springfield goes a little bit crazy with all of the different variants... Not as bad as Remington does with the 700, but it's still a bit ridiculous. If you have the money, and that's what you want, buy it, but you don't NEED it. Any M1A will be excellent quality and you will be pleased with any M1A you buy.

[Rex Kramer]

For the money SAI wants for their M1As I think the Standard & Loaded models deliver the most bang for your buck.

Quote:      

Is there better?

All of the M14s Smith Enterprise, Inc. (SEI) has built for me are outstanding.

[madcratebuilder]

The SA standard and loaded are great buys. If you check the for sale section at m14fl.com you can find some super deals on older M1A's, many with all usgi parts, for the same money as new, or less.

[Rex Kramer]

Shop locally for a pre-owned M1A, the EE on AR15.com is also a great place for deals.

[nathangdad]

future intentions should really guide your choice.

If you really intend to make an effort that will most likely span several years to get to the upper levels of marksmanship then the ultimate gun is something you could consider. Remember, the upper levels of marksmanship require for most people a major commitment in terms of time and money to reach.

If you are more like me (and I suspect many others) and want an accurate rifle to enjoy shooting then the basic rifle something you should consider. The basic rifle should not be overlooked for accuracy and enjoyment. I will admit the basic rifle should consistently "outshoot" my capabilities.

My best advice is to spend some time in serious thought as to where you want to be in a few years. Let this guide you purchase decision.

[Silvertip44]

Yessir, I will agree with the previous post. I have three M1As, two loaded and one standard. They have all been fully accurized and will outshoot anyone at almost any given time.
The gunsmithing, developing loads, finding the right bullet the rifles like etc., etc. and then shooting them a lot is rather expensive.
But---I enjoy every minute of it.

[wunhunglo]

Only thing I can add is to buy the best you can afford. I had a standard one many many years ago and when I decided to buy a new one I went for what I thought was the best I could afford (Fulton "Peerless") and I have not been disappointed with it. I know now that when I miss the x-ring it is either me or the ammo, not the rifle!

[Rex Kramer]

Quote:       Originally Posted by wunhunglo

Only thing I can add is to buy the best you can afford.

+1

I had a nice Springfield Scout, but I now own outstanding M14s custom built by Smith Enterprise, Inc.

These rifles are extremely accurate and ultra reliable, simply the best.