The SOCOM also features 4-inches of Picatinny rail on top, plus a tactical style front sight/flash suppressor unit.

Most notably, the barrel is 16.25 inches, compared to 22 inches on the Standard M1A, but from butt to action, the two models are the same size. The SOCOM differs from its full-size predecessor in a few ways. However, its versatility is limited by a few factors. Springfield’s re-interpretation of the venerable M1A will appeal to many. They’re not just lighter-they’re better.The SOCOM 16 version of the Springfield Armory M1A series, chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, is a ruggedly handsome and powerful entry in the carbine class. The end result is an aerospace-grade, high-fiber content composite barrel that is stronger, lighter, as accurate as the finest precision steel barrel, and durable to perform in the most demanding environments.

Carbon fiber also moves heat very effectively through the wall (thickness) of the barrel greatly increasing heat transport resulting in barrels that cool faster, maintain accuracy over longer sessions of fire, and live longer. The carbon fibers we use have a unique ability to diffuse heat along the length of the barrel (much like fiber optics transmit light). This reduced contour barrel is then wrapped with high-strength, aerospace-grade carbon fiber impregnated with a proprietary matrix resin developed by our advanced composites division, PROOF Research ACD. These blanks are then turned down to a significantly reduced profile greatly reducing weight. Our patented manufacturing process begins with full-profile, match-grade 416R stainless steel barrel blanks that are made in our firearms division. When employed in a rifle barrel the benefits extend beyond reducing weight and increasing strength. Carbon fiber has long been hailed across many industries-aerospace, cycling, alternative energy-as a wonder material making everything lighter and stronger.

M1a socom accuracy and range