The Legacy of M14s in the Transition to M16

The transition from the M14 to the M16 rifle during the Vietnam War marked a significant shift in U.S. military firepower. While most M14s saw a gradual phase-out, a few saw continued use, particularly in special operations and sniper roles. This article explores the fate of the M14s that were ultimately replaced by the M16, detailing their various uses and eventual fate.

Demil and Civilian Markets

The majority of surplus M14s were de-milled and sold to civilian markets, including individual buyers and police departments. This ensured that a portion of these firearms remained in public circulation, serving various roles and purposes outside of military use.

However, a select few were carefully maintained and kept in service, particularly for their unique qualities as either designated marksman rifles (DMRs) or sniper rifles. This resurgence in the use of M14s was driven by their precision and reliability, characteristics still valued in modern military and law enforcement contexts. Some models were even modified with Picatinny rails and scopes, enhancing their effectiveness in long-range engagements.

Special Operations and Gulf War

During the Gulf War, it was not uncommon for these battle-worn but reliable M14s to see renewed service. Units like Special Operations Forces relied on the M14 for its accuracy and lethality in precise roles. The M14’s legacy continued with these units, and in 2023, some Special Operations teams still occasionally use the M14, though it is becoming a relic of a bygone era in terms of modern weapons design.

Surplus and Civilian Use

Some M14s were given to the South Vietnamese government, and after the fall of Saigon in 1975, these weapons ended up in the hands of the Communist forces. These M14s continue to be used and manufactured for ammunition and spare parts. Some were also sent to other Communist revolutionaries worldwide, further extending the life and influence of the M14 beyond the Vietnam War.

During the warehousing of the M14s stateside, many weapons were reconditioned and repurposed for use in the Middle East and later in Afghanistan. These M14s were converted into DMRs, receiving updated features such as adjustable composite stocks, Picatinny rails, optics, and suppressors. The U.S. Navy, in particular, repurposed these weapons, calling them the Mark 14 Model 0 EBR (Enhanced Battle Rifle) and using them effectively with Special Forces.

NRA Marksmanship Programs

A notable use for the surplus M14s was their donation to NRA marksmanship training programs. These programs aimed to improve shooting skills and instill a sense of precision among participants. However, not all M14s were spared the ultimate fate of destruction. Some were sold to the public as surplus firearms, becoming collectors' items.

While the M14 is no longer widely used in military service as a primary issue weapon, it has found a place in ceremonial uses such as honor guards. In 1987, the author even received an M14 as an augmentee on a Joint Navy/Air Force base, indicating that despite the shift to M16s, the M14 continued to serve in various roles in the military and its auxiliary services.

Conclusion

The M14 and M16 rifles represent a pivotal chapter in U.S. military history. The M14, while eventually phased out as the primary issue weapon, remains a symbol of precision and reliability. Its legacy continues through various uses, from ceremonial duties to specialized military roles, cementing its place in American military history.