In fact, it might be helpful for even those who have owned an M1A for a while.
In this article and video, I show you how to disassemble and clean your M1A.
Released in 1974, the M1A was an immediate hit and remains one through today.
In this article, the author shows you how to clean the Springfield Armory M1A rifle.
Youll notice in the companion video I do basic maintenance for in between shooting sessions.
From here, flip the rifle upside down and lay it on your work/cleaning bench.
This also allows the barreled action to be removed from the stock.
A U.S. soldier firing his M14 in January 1952. Image: NARA
Moving on to the barreled receiver, I will remove the operating rod spring and operating rod spring guide.
I will separate these two parts and wipe them down with a rag and then lightly oil them.
If this sounds a bit confusing, refer to your owners manual (linkedhere).
Cleaning the M1A begins with ensuring the rifle is unloaded.
The operating rod and bolt will now be removed from the barreled action.
I now clean the barrel with an appropriate length cleaning rod.
I first run a solvent soaked patch thru the barrel two to three times.
Using a cotton swab can help remove grease and dirt from grooves and other areas on the M1A.
I then follow with a bronze .30-caliber brush 10-20 times through the barrel.
Repeat this procedure as necessary until your dry patches come out clean.
Final Steps
The operating rod and bolt will require a good wipe down and light lubrication.
The bore of the M1A can be cleaned from the muzzle and without removing the action from the stock. However, heavy use will require complete disassembly to ensure proper cleaning.
Prior to reassembly I will grease the receiver rails and bolt roller with a good synthetic gun grease.
The last thing that needs to be disassembled is the gas system.
This is the only normal maintenance procedure requiring any disassembly of your M1A.
The M1A bolt face can also be cleaned with cotton swabs.
Remove the plug by turning it counter-clockwise and withdrawing it from the gas cylinder.
Turn the rifle muzzle down, which allows the gas piston to fall out.
Once out, clean the piston with bore solvent and wipe dry.
Clean the inside of the gas cylinder as well and wipe dry.
When re-assembling, ensure the piston is completely below the threads in the gas cylinder before replacing the plug.
Apply a SMALL dab of grease to the threads on the plug.
The gas system was designed to operate dry.
Just reverse the procedures for reassembly of your M1A.
Remember, this is yearly detailed cleaning and doesnt need to be done every time you clean your rifle.
For regular maintenance, follow the tips in the video at the top of the page.
Have fun, be safe and enjoy your M1A!
