I've been in this very position before. Had the money in hand on several occasions and each time decided to spend it on something else. Wouldn't be long afterward that I was wishing I had gone ahead and bought an M1A. Finally learned my lesson and bought one. If I had it to do over again, it would be the FIRST purchase I would make. I have AK's, AR's and numerous bolt guns, but none of them scratch that itch like the M1A. Get one. You won't be disappointed.