I think the M14 is a fine rifle.
I went thru basic training with the M1 (1962).
When I arrived in Korea the issue rifle was the M14. The squad AR man had the selector, no one else had the selector.
I was a bit of a gun nut even at 18. I figured out that if the selector block was removed from the receiver , the little pin filed off, rotated the bloch 180
degrees and reassembled, the rifle would shoot FA only.
One day the tank platoon was headed for the range to practise with the M3 and 1911. I ask the LT if I could accompany them with my M14. Permission was granted.
I moved to the far left side of the range and commenced firing. Halfway thru the second mag I became aware of people behind me. When I looked behind me i saw the LT and several buck sgt's.
The Lt asked me, a pvt, for permission to shoot my rifle.To make a long story short the Lt sent a sgt back for more 308 ammo. A great time was had by all.
Now I have a SA M1a and its a nice rifle,
Jim C