"Make: Norinco
Model: M-14 Sporter (Poly Tech M14S)
Serial Number: 15980
Year of Manufacture: 1990s (Pre-Ban)
Caliber: .308 Winchester / 7.62x51 NATO
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “M-14S .308 / IDE USA SFLD MICH / POLYTECH CHINA / 15980 / Made in China.”
Barrel Length: 22”, 25” to the end of the flash-hider
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade with protective wings. The rear sight is an adjustable aperture sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a traditional walnut wood stock with a composite top handguard. The buttstock features a flip-up shoulder brace, but no cleaning kits are present in the stock compartment. There is a fill on the right side of the stock near the action, though the stock remains structurally sound. The buttplate shows corrosion and finish loss. The rifle retains its bayonet lug, but no bayonet is included. The Length of Pull (LOP) measures 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttstock. The stock shows moderate handling marks and wear but remains in Very Good overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 20-round M14-pattern magazine is included. This is a Chinese Poly Tech reproduction of a USGI magazine, not an original USGI mag. The magazine is blued, whereas the rifle has a parkerized finish. The magazine rates in Good to Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with strong rifling. There is light fouling but no significant erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. The only notable wear is light finish loss on the buttplate due to corrosion. The screw heads are sharp, the pins are unmarred, and the markings are crisp and well-defined. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The safety, bolt operation, and magazine release all function as expected. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment:
The M14 is one of the most well-respected rifles in American military history, evolving from the M1 Garand and introducing a detachable magazine, an improved gas system, and select-fire capability. Though phased out in favor of the M16, the M14 continued to serve in a marksman role and remains in limited military use today.
Norinco, recognizing the iconic status of the M14 platform, began producing semi-automatic versions for export in the 1990s. These pre-ban imports were known for their strong steel receivers and durability, manufactured on the same production lines as Chinese military-issue rifles. Despite misconceptions about Chinese firearms, Poly Tech M14S rifles have earned a reputation for being well-built and highly sought-after.
This particular Norinco M14 Sporter (Poly Tech M14S) is a fine example of a pre-ban Chinese M14 clone, retaining 97% of its parkerized finish. It features a bayonet lug (though no bayonet is included), a repaired area on the right side of the stock near the action, and a buttplate with finish loss and corrosion. The bore remains 9/10 with strong rifling, and the Poly Tech M14-pattern magazine is included, though it is a reproduction, not an original USGI mag.
Since Norinco imports were banned in 1994, these rifles have become increasingly scarce and desirable among collectors. Whether you're looking for a reliable semi-auto .308, a military-style battle rifle, or an investment piece, this Poly Tech M14S is a fantastic option. Pre-ban examples like this one are becoming harder to find, so don’t miss out on adding this rifle to your collection!
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