Quote Originally Posted by Troublco View Post
It's my understanding that some Chinese parts, like the bolt, are not interchangeable. I've heard some folks that have had good luck, and some that have not (soft parts and such). I had a Chinese, and sold it. Since then I picked up a mid 90's production Springfield NM and have been very happy with it (all GI parts, exc the barrel), and also got one built with GI parts on an LRB receiver. Nowadays, my personal pick would be an LRB receiver with GI parts. LRB receivers are forged and machined, like the original GI guns. Everyone else uses investment cast receivers, even Fulton. Not that there's anything wrong with that, but Forged are still stronger and I personally like them better. Just my $.02!
The reciever needs to be relieved to accept a GI bolt. sometimes the side stamped polys will take a GI bolt no problem.

As far as barrels the criterion chrome lined barrels are superior to the GI barrels and they cost a little bit less in most cases. There are lots of good commercial parts manufactures that are making quality parts.

Smith vortex flash suppressor is better than GI
Criterion barrels are better than GI
SEI op rods are better and cheaper than GI
Bolts, gas systems, rear sights are all being commercially made equal or better than GI

My dream m14 would be LRB m25 reciever with criterion chrome lined barrel, Smith gas system, smith rear sight, TRW bolt, GI trigger group, Smith oprod,