"Coch's" Career with the M1A

Published on October 9, 2023
Duration: 11:24

Retired Navy SEAL Coch details his extensive career with the M1A/M14 rifle, starting from SEAL Team 5 in the 80s. He discusses the preference for 7.62 NATO over 5.56 NATO for stopping power and the evolution of stocks from the BM59 to modern EBR chassis. Coch highlights the 18-inch barrel as a balance of maneuverability and capability, particularly with a specific Springfield Armory muzzle brake.

Quick Summary

Retired Navy SEAL Coch preferred the 18-inch barrel M1A for better maneuverability as a point man, finding it offered an optimal balance of capability and weight compared to the standard 22-inch barrel.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & SEAL Team 5 History
  2. 02:42The 18-inch Barrel Preference
  3. 04:10Stock Evolution: BM59 & Modified Wood
  4. 06:08Fiberglass & EBR Chassis
  5. 09:08Summary & Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What caliber did Navy SEALs prefer in the 1980s and why?

Retired Navy SEAL Coch states that SEAL Team 5 in the mid-80s preferred 7.62 NATO and .45 ACP calibers for their superior stopping power compared to the 5.56 NATO rounds, which they referred to as 'poodle guns'.

Why did Coch prefer an 18-inch barrel M1A over the standard 22-inch?

As a point man, Coch found the standard 22-inch barrel M1A too long for effective maneuverability in tactical situations. The 18-inch barrel offered a better balance for his operational needs.

What were the main stock evolutions Coch experienced with the M1A?

Coch used the Italian BM59 folding stock, a modified wood stock, McMillan fiberglass stocks to prevent warping, and finally the heavier Sage International EBR chassis for modern accessory integration.

What are the pros and cons of the Sage EBR chassis for the M1A?

The EBR chassis allows for modern accessories like lasers and lights, but it significantly increases the rifle's weight, bringing it close to 14 pounds. Coch suggested using an M4 buffer tube to mitigate some of this added weight.

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