Walnut and an 18 inch barrel make an appealing pair on this M1A-A Scout. It is a new Springfield Armory rifle in 7.62x51 NATO, built on the military M14 pattern. The shorter barrel helps it come up fast, and the forward scout-style sight arrangement is designed for quick target acquisition with both eyes open.

What can be said is that a walnut-stocked Scout is a good all-purpose rifle for someone who wants traditional looks with modern use. It carries well in a truck or on a sling, and the recoil in this caliber is manageable. Wood and steel both need care in damp weather, and a silica packet in the case is cheap insurance.

Hunters looking for a handy semi-automatic for hogs or deer at close range will find the length useful in brush. Range shooters will enjoy the military aperture sights and the two-stage feel of the trigger.

Wood stocks like this one need a little care. Keep them dry and wipe them down after rain. The rifle ships to your chosen FFL dealer, and the background check is done there.