July 14th, 2021
6:12 runtime
TheM1A is legendary.
With a legacy running back to the 1950s, the M1A was born from theU.S.
militarys M14, a semi-automatic-only sibling of this revered service rifle.
While the M1A is born from a design dating back to the 1950s, Springfield Armory has kept the design fresh and current with versions like the SOCOM 16 CQB shown here.
Featuring an ultra-short 16 barrel, this is the smallest and most compact M1A available.
The stock also features an AK-style pistol grip.
Also, the short 16 barrel allows for a shorter overall length once suppressed.
The author decided to use the SOCOM 16 CQB as a platform for some of his top accessory choices, fitting it out as a full tactical gun.
This allows the rifle to be maneuvered easily helps keep the overall weight down.
Just a really cool accessory for a great gun.
One of the more defining features of a modern firearm is modularity.
With the right gear, the .308-chambered SOCOM 16 CQB can be a great full-house tactical gun.
Iron sights on rifles are in my opinion a great backup option.
This is an optic ready for whatever you throw at it.
I decided to use an Arisaka Defense 600 Series Malkoff Devices E2XT with an inline scoutM-Lok mount.
To mount and run the suppressor, Tremp fitted the CQB out with a Delta P Design SOCOM Muzzle Thread Adapter and Schuster Manufacturing M1A SOCOM Gas Plug.
With the concentrated head, the E2XT can easily illuminate targets out to 100 yards.
That brings us to weapon handling.
The archangel CQB stock does a great job at modernizing the M1A.
Tremp mounted an Aimpoint PRO red dot with an American Defense Mfg. Aimpoint PRO 30mm Low Mount with titanium lever.
One thing to note, though; these rifles arent lightweight.
This fact is especially true once you add an optic, suppressor, lights, etc.
To aid in the handling, I added a Magpul AFG-2 (angled foregrip).
The author found the CQB to be a great platform for a wide range of gear, from lights to optics to suppressors and more.
The AFG-2 slides onto the Picatinny rail located at the 6 oclock position of the stock.
These work especially well when removing the magazines quickly from a pouch on a plate carrier.
First, you need a gear to convert the M1A threads into standard a 5/824 thread pitch.
A SilencerCo titanium Omega 300 suppressor was Tremp’s choice for the project. Note the Arisaka Defense 600 Series Malkoff Devices E2XT light.
For this, I chose a Delta P Design SOCOM Muzzle Thread Adapter.
It also uses a two-piece design to register directly onto the barrel threads and thread shoulder for perfect alignment.
The install is simple, and alignment is perfect every time.
A Magpul AFG-2 (angled foregrip) was mounted on the Picatinny rail located at the 6 o-clock position of the CQB’s stock.
This is a particularly important factor when suppressing a rifle.
Now that we have a standard 5/824 thread pitch, we are ready for that suppression machine.
I chose the Omega 300 for this project.
Tremp fitted out the 20-round M1A mags he was using with original “Magpul” mag assists.
The Omega 300 is one of the lightest, shortest titanium .30-caliber suppressors on the market.
I also attached an anchor break front cap to further tame the recoil of the mighty .308 cartridge.
This can induce undue wear and tear.
Enter the Schuster Manufacturing M1A SOCOM Gas Plug.
The gas plug will vent excess gas to keep your rifle running with just the right amount of gasses.
I know you wont be disappointed.
