Springfield SOCOM 16

[targshooter]

This is a borderline hunting rifle. It has iron sights and the ability to take a LER scope. It seems a little heavy, but the balance is decent. Perhaps with a 5 round clip it could make a decent sporter. I figured I would inquire in this forum if anyone has fired one of the Springfield SOCOM 16 rifles. This is an M1A derivative with a 16 1/4 inch barrel. Wonder if the gas port has been moved so that the original M14 designed balance of the recoiling parts is disturbed and galling takes place due to the action being too violently operated by the now different gas pressure curve. Still, this looks like it has the possibility to be a durable field hunting weapon. Anyone fired one of these? Any thoughts on Springfield firearms quality?

[jimmyp50]

I had an 18 inch model 7 in 308, it was very loud. I cannot imagine shooting a 16 inch 308 in the woods.  A 30-30 with 170 grain bullet will do 2200 fps or better.  A 16 inch 308 is probably only 2400 FPS with a 150 grain bullet.  What is the advantage?  If I wanted to look cool I would buy it, but maybe then not because Springfield quality control has sucked for a few years now. jimmyp