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Springfield M1A Socom 16 or Barrett REC7(6.8 SPC)

Jcas2012

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Full Member
Minuteman
May 28, 2011
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Just would like all your opinions on which one of these rifles you would choose and why. Here are a few things to consider. I currently have a M4 Carbine but would like something with some more knock down power. I have always wanted a M1A and the Socom 16 looks like a blast but I recently stumbled upon the REC7 and think it looks like an awesome weapon from everything I have read. M1A is a few hundred cheaper but I have the funds at the moment for either (gotta love tax returns). Thanks for all your help guys.
 
Re: Springfield M1A Socom 16 or Barrett REC7(6.8 SPC)

Can't comment on the REC7, but I love my Socom. 7.62 NATO is easier to come by and a bigger cartridge. However if you ever intend on changing muzzle devices, the scout is a better option with the 18.5" barrel.

The M14 platform is proven, rugged and reliable.
 
Re: Springfield M1A Socom 16 or Barrett REC7(6.8 SPC)

Agree with DB, the Scout is a better gun. Shoot an M1 and see if you really like it. I wasn't impressed with the fit and finish, balance or the relative difficulty to modify my Socom compared to an AR.

My bro and I have 6.8's, mine a Wilson Combat, his an LWRC. Lightweight, balanced and more accurate than the Socom. Easy as hell to change stock, grips, etc. Ammo shoots well out of a short barrel but harder to find in a store. Just go online and order from SSA or Wilson Combat.

An AR-10 such as those by LaRue or GAP would be excellent choices for a rifle that shoots "with some more knock down power" as well.
 
Re: Springfield M1A Socom 16 or Barrett REC7(6.8 SPC)

If it was me it would definitely be the M1A. From what Ive heard about Barrett, theyre not the best choice but I have never shot one so I dont know. The M1A`s are bad@ss, I shot a national match and I will be getting one when the funds are right. An AR in .308 would not be a bad choice at all though, and from what I hear the AR`s are kicking the Garand and M1A`s butts in competition.
 
Re: Springfield M1A Socom 16 or Barrett REC7(6.8 SPC)

SOCOM
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Re: Springfield M1A Socom 16 or Barrett REC7(6.8 SPC)

I can't really comment on the REC7 but for me, when in doubt go with the M14 platform. Additionally, you mentioned "knock down power"....7.62x51 is the answer--it always is! Of my rifles, the M1A is still my favorite--even as old and archaic my buddies say it is!
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Re: Springfield M1A Socom 16 or Barrett REC7(6.8 SPC)

Don't mistake the Socom, I got sub moa accuracy. Only using a 1-4 vortex scope. There are some little things you can do to improve accuracy too. A cylinder shim set helps.

It's the most reliable rifle I've used, and the Springfield warranty is awesome.
 
Re: Springfield M1A Socom 16 or Barrett REC7(6.8 SPC)

If you plan to hunt---here are a couple threads about a guy working through this decision as well...

First thoughts

The latest

If you are thinking about shooting 'long range' the .308 outclasses the 6.8 in terms of ballistics beyond 400-500yds and produces significantly more energy at all ranges.

The 6.8 costs a little less for match, defensive, and hunting ammo; however, cheap (surplus, steel case, etc) ammo is readily available for the .308 and not the 6.8.

I have a 6.8 and have a GAP-10 on order. The 6.8 is my hunting rig and the GAP will be a dedicated precision rifle.

Lastly, I prefer the AR platform, so I would choose something like the Larue Predator or LMT MWS over the M1 if I were looking for a .308.

BTW: I think you could probably get a better 6.8 upper/rifle for less if you looked around a little. I like Noveske (Rogue Hunter), Daniel Defense, ARP, Bison, Wilson, and Rainier.

Good luck.
 
Re: Springfield M1A Socom 16 or Barrett REC7(6.8 SPC)

That first thread is pretty awesome. I always wanted a M1A so I decided to go with the socom. Thanks for all the input guys, I appreciate it. Can't wait to see what this baby can do!
 
Re: Springfield M1A Socom 16 or Barrett REC7(6.8 SPC)

Do you want an AR. If so REC7, if not SOCOM. I have heard good stuff about both, but I have always wanted the M1A... other things on my list before it though. Go SOCOM man!
 
Re: Springfield M1A Socom 16 or Barrett REC7(6.8 SPC)

I'd go Socom myself. I just shot one two weeks ago. First one in a long time, but the first one I had some match ammo and a little time to play. 100yards it was 1moa using the scope the owner had on it. Not too bad for a rifle pretty much fresh out of the box. Building an M21 I know quite a bit about how to build one up, and this was stock. I was impressed by it actually. With a few mods there isn't a doubt in my mind the little Socom could be quite a performer in it's own right. I'd buy one without hesitation.
To be fair though I've never even seen a Barrett REC7 in person. It might be a pretty nice rifle also. I'm not really sure I'd want the 6.8 caliber though. Just another caliber to buy. I already have 308, I like 308, so based on that alone, the REC7 doesn't get me all tingly inside.