an m1a is actually the only thing I ended up buying before the ban. I already had an AR, but instead of going for another 1-2, I ended up with a national match M1A.
Its almost looks like the douglas barrel is now an option on these on springfield website, unless I see it wrong. I thought the upgraded barrel was standard in NM models.
Anywho, my only regret is not opting for the socom model as its much more suited to me then a " trophy" NM model.
They've had Douglas barrels for awhile, I just don't like the look of a stainless barrel on an M1A. Instead of a SOCOM get an AR10 clone with a 16" barrel?