The M14-Type Rifle, 3rd Revised and Expanded Edition Reviews

The M14-Type Rifle,3rd edition, revised and expanded, by Joe Poyer ($19.95). The Ml4 rifle was the last semiautomatic battle rifle adopted by the U.S. military. It lasted less than ten years before being displaced by the M16. But in that short time, it developed fierce adherents and became one of the finest match rifles in the world. During the war in Iraq, the M14, as well as its sniper variations, the M21 and M25, have made an astonishing comeback. The M14 is currently used by all four branches of the U.S. military, plus the U.S. Coast Guard. This book provides a detailed history of its development and use. The high-powered .30 caliber (7.62 x 51 NATO) cartridge is ideal for long range sniping and for penetrating body armor and light vehicles. This new revised and expanded edition examines the M14 rifle and its two sniper variations on a part-by-part basis but surveys all current civilian semiautomatic M14-type rifles and components available today. It also provides as a guide for shooters who want to restore an M14 to original condition or build a superb match rifle. Included are the Chinese variations of the M14. The history of the development and use of the M14 in Vietnam, and now in Iraq and Afghanistan, is detailed. The development of its sniper variations is explained. Separate chapters show how to turn a commercial M14-type rifle such as the M1A, into a superb match rifle by choosing the right barrel, glass-bedding the stock, and unitizing the gas cylinder. Also discussed are ammunition, National Match rifles and specification, ammunition to be used for the best accuracy, targeting and shooting the M14-type rifle and trouble shooting and maintenance. Finally, all G.I. issue accessories are described. The book is fully illustrated with photos and drawings that clarify the text. Appendices provide up-to-date information on parts and supplies and gunsmithing services. And the current legal ramifications of owning a semiautomatic rifle is explained.