Definitely go with the M1A. I was in the same position as you about a year ago. Everyone I talked to said M1A. Also, my dad had one that functioned flawlessly. The M1A is a classic. Above all else, it is reliable. I've heard that the AR-10 may be more of a tack driver, but I doubt it. I've heard of some feeding problems with the AR-10. I bought an M1A loaded package. It is an awesome gun and, to date is completley reliable (with abou 5-600 rounds through it). The only thing I didn't like about it was the tiny rear aperture (my eyes aren't so good). So I took a 5/64 drill bit and drilled out a bigger hole. Now I get a sight picture that's more like th AR-15...MUCH better for combat purposes. Good luck.