While some people prefer to have many weapons from which to chose when selecting a battle rifle, I wanted one all-purpose "go-to" gun. One weapon upon which I'm willing to bet my life. I follow Pershing's logic that ultimately, wars are one by one man and a rifle. It was our entire military philosophy prior to Vietnam, and it's a shame we're so far from it. Anyway...

When I was choosing a go-to gun, I wanted:
• proven reliability
• the ability to engage from 0-300m with military accuracy (6"-8" groups @ 300m)
• a "standard" cartridge which is readily available
• power to punch vests, and -- as they say -- "turn cover into concealment" (meaning I can shoot through things like cinderblock and car doors).

Those parameters established, I went with the M14.

Now, since I have only ONE M14, I need to ensure I can maintain it, so I purchased the two "bibles" on the use, maintenance & repair of the M14. The two "bibles" referred to are:

"The M14 Owner's Guide and Match Conditioning Instructions" by Scott Duff
"The M14 Complete Assembly Guide" by Walt Kuleck and Clint McKeeFrom that, I learned that by replacing two inexpensive stock parts with high-quality after-market replacements, I could increase my accuracy and reduce wear on the weapon, so I did that.

It should go without saying that you need LOTS of ammo. I've got about 4000 rounds for Vera.

Then, I read everything I could online about common malfunctions and how to diagnose/repair them, what parts are likely to break, etc. This led me to purchase the four special tools used for (but not required for) M14 maintenance, and a full set of springs, pins, screws, bearings, etc. So when I'm at the range or in the field, I carry in a small (6"x5") case all the parts and tools necessary to fix my weapon in a pinch. I have the parts to replace anything on the gun except the barrel, receiver, bolt housing, trigger housing, hammer, operating rod, and the trigger itself. Every other part -- from the extractor to the op-rod guide to the firing pin -- I have a replacement for, which is on my person.

I have spent time tearing the gun apart bit-by-bit and familiarizing myself with her so I know what goes where in a pinch. Basic prep work.

After that, it was a matter a matter of learning how to properly shoot it. Now, I've been shooting since I was 5 but I never learned how to properly use a sling in the three basic shooting positions (standing, sitting/kneeling, prone). So, I tried both leather USGI and nylon/cotton USGI slings and ended up using the nylon (quicker & easier to adjust for your position).

I also attended two Appleseed Shoots (http://www.appleseedinfo.org/) which were GREAT. Highly recommended. Also, "Fred's Guide To Becoming A Rifleman" (which you can order from the site) is a great read.

Now it's just a matter of continued practice with both iron sights and my Aimpoint. Remember, never rely completely on anything but iron. Even if it's not your primary targeting method, learn to shoot with a military-style peepsight. Optics can and will fail.

So there's my long-winded philosophy on selecting my go-to gun. Hopefully it's helpful.

(Thanks to our man Tim for submitting this)