Did the M14 replace the Garand?
That is a sure thing, and in my opinion it was a big step forward for semi-autos. It really is too bad the gun was not fielded during the Korean War because it would have made a difference for the USGI. As much as the Garand was a useful weapon to the American Rifleman, it was quickly out dated in the battle field and from what I have personally witnessed, is not very versatile when it comes to being used by different soldiers. Many Vets that I have spoken to did not think the gun was fun to shoot and couldn’t hit anything at 100yds with it. I’ve seen that type of shooting before, it’s called “fear of recoil”.
When the M14 was first issued, it pretty much did in the M1 Garand and the BAR, but modern warfare made the riflemen’s usual combat engagements take place at well under 400yds. Most engagements that I know of from personal stories took place at under 100yds. The M1 Carbine still was very practical for soldiers until the M4 Carbine came out, now many enthusiasts in California and New Jersey can use the Promag magazines that are 10rds and from what many of our customers have said they worked very well for this old relic. If it were not for the limited availability and reliability of M1 Carbine ammo, I think the gun would be more popular.