Flat dark earth meets black on this Loaded Precision M1A, a new Springfield Armory rifle in 7.62x51 NATO. The barrel is 22 inches, and it takes 10 round magazines. The two-tone finish sets it apart from the standard black rifles.

The pattern is the civilian M14, a gas-operated, self-loading rifle with a two-stage trigger. Buying from a dealer near you makes the handover easy, since you can handle the rifle and ask questions before you sign. Ammunition choice matters more than most buyers expect, so try two or three loads and keep the one that groups best.

FDE furniture and a black receiver look right on a rifle that will be carried outdoors. The color breaks up the outline against dry grass and earth, and it holds dirt less obviously than all-black. For a precision rifle on a bipod, it is a practical setup.

The M1A suits a shooter who wants a semi-automatic .308 for a long-range match or a day in open country. Pair it with a good optic.

It ships to a licensed FFL dealer, and the background check is completed there.