I can only mimic what I mentioned in post #13. I have one and have had the rifle over 25 years. I would not have had it 25 years if I didn't like it. That said and looking at forums the M1A or any M14 clone seems to be a love it or hate it rifle. Some had had a bad experience with a new in box rifle but I figure that can be said of any rifle. I did put a scope on mine but just to see what the rifle would do off the bench. I shoot it with the iron sights or actually a NM2 hooded rear aperture and NM front.
Of late Springfield Armory has gotten some bad rap involving politics more than the quality of the M1A.
Springfield Armory, Rock River Arms Trade Opposition to Illinois FFL Licensing Scheme for Carve-Out. Personally I won't let any of the hype surrounding this make me run out and sell my rifle. Most of this also comes down to what you read and how it is worded.
If you go the M1A route I hope you enjoy the rifle and hope equally as well it performs well for you right out of the box.
Ron