BULA M14 / M21DMR / XM21 RIFLE SYSTEM

OPERATOR’S MANUAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WHY BULA ......................................................................... 03

INTRODUCTION ................................................................. 04

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.............................................. 07

OPERATING UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS..................... 10

LOADING THE RIFLE.......................................................... 12 WARNING

HOW YOUR RIFLE WORKS................................................. 14

OPERATING IN EXTREME ENVIRONMENTS...................... 19

THIS MANUAL DOES NOT ELIMINATE
MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS......................................... 20
THE NEED FOR SAFE GUN HANDLING AND
DISASSEMBLY AND REASSEMBLY.................................... 21 STORAGE. KEEP THIS AND EVERY GUN UN-
LOADED AND LOCKED IN A SECURE PLACE
CLEANING AND LUBRICATION.......................................... 25
WHEN NOT IN USE. READ AND FOLLOW THIS
MAINTENANCE OF MAJOR GROUPS................................. 27 MANUAL AND OTHER FIREARM SAFETY
RULES. FAILURE TO READ, UNDERSTAND,
MAINTENANCE OF MAGAZINE.......................................... 29
AND OBEY THESE RULES CAN RESULT IN
AMMUNITION...................................................................... 30 SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.

2 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL

WHY BULA
Bula Defense Systems offers the only forged M14-style rifle
made in a production environment today. In addition, our rifle
and firearm components are produced to original USGI drawings in
our ISO-9001:2015 certified facility. We also manufacture several
safety critical items for The United States Department of Defense.
DIVERSITY
Bula manufactures products for many different markets. Some
of our commercial markets include main line rail, mining, special-
ty hardware and tools, material handling, and overhead cranes.
For the Department of Defense, we manufacture components for
.50 cal machine gun mounts, aircraft landing gear, bomb mounts,
cannon hardware, tow assemblies, and more. We also provide
The Department of Defense with several components to support
M14 rifles still in service today!
PRECISION
Bula is currently the only firearms manufacturer to fully machine
forged M14 receivers to completion in CNC equipment. CNC ma-
chining ensures reliability and repeatability from part to part. Our
modern machining methods eliminate the practice of hand work-
ing parts to fit. The result is Bula rifles are far more accurate and
superior to other M14-style rifles on the market.
QUALITY
Bula also invests in sophisticated measuring equipment to en-
sure product quality. Our measuring capabilities include modern
coordinate measuring machines, 3-D laser scanning, and 7-axis
portable measuring probes. Technology is the key to manufac-
turing products to high degrees of precision and accuracy. The
M14 receiver alone requires more than 115 dimensional checks
to complete the inspection. Every component produced in our
ISO-9001:2015 certified facility undergoes a complete inspection
during the manufacturing process.
INNOVATION
Bula introduced the very first (and only) left-handed, M14-style
rifle to the market. We developed the left-hand version from con-
ception to prototype in 6 weeks and launched it at the 2018 Shot
Show. Our left-handed rifle has appeared in many publications
and blogs such as American Rifleman, NRA “Gun of the Week”,
and Firearms News. We are proud to offer left-handed versions in
most of our M14-style rifles.
The M21DMR designed and manufactured by Bula has solved the
issue of mounting optics on an M14 rifle. The M21DMR scope rail
is precision milled to follow the centerline of the receiver and bar-
rel. The integrated rail on the receiver is precisely relieved along
the centerline in the machining process to allow for the use of
iron sights with the mounted rail. Our cutting-edge design inhibits
movement and eliminates the problem of losing “zero”.
M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 3
INTRODUCTION
SCOPE
This manual contains information and operating instructions
for Bula M14-Style Rifles. It also serves well for other M14-type
rifles. More extensive information is available on Internet and
forum websites.
DESCRIPTION
The M14 is a lightweight, air-cooled, gas operated, magazine fed,
rifle. Unlike the military version, the Bula M14 is not capable of
automatic fire.

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR NEW PURCHASE!

Right-Handed Bula M14 National Match Right-Handed Bula M14

DO NOT DISASSEMBLE YOUR RIFLE UNTIL YOU READ THE SECTION TITLED “DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY” IN THIS MANUAL. MANY PEOPLE
STRUGGLE WITH REASSEMBLY BECAUSE THEY ARE UNFAMILIAR WITH THE CONFIGURATION OF THIS RIFLE. UNFAMILIARITY CAN ALSO RESULT
WARNING IN DAMAGED COMPONENTS!

4 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL

 Left- Handed Bula M14

Unique to the industry, Bula rifles can be purchased in both right
and left-handed models. The first left-handed M14 was built as a
technological demonstration for the 2018 SHOT Show.The project
was accomplished from start to completion in 6 weeks. This ac-
complishment is a testament to Bula’s sophistication. No firearms
company in history has taken such a complicated rifle and creat-
ed the drawings, forgings, tooling, fixturing, machine programs,
and quality assurance procedures in such a short time frame. It is
fun to give our left-handed models to veteran M14 shooters and
witness the confusion on their faces.
Bula makes a wide variety of M14s to suit every user’s desire.
The left-handed models are a unique demonstration of our level
of sophistication. The following photos reflect our most com-
mon models.
National Match models look very much like the Classic M14.
These models include a National Match barrel, National Match
sights, glass bedding and other accuracy upgrades. National
Match models are made in accordance with Civilian Marksmanship
Program rules.

M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 5

FUNDAMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS
Basic Bula M14 Rifle
WEIGHT 9.1 lbs
LENGTH W/FLASH SUPPRESSOR 44.3 in
LENGTH OF BARREL 16 to 22 in
MAGAZINE CARTRIDGE CAPACITY 10 or 20 rounds
RATE OF SEMI-AUTOMATIC FIRE 10 to 30 rpm XM21 Law Enforcement Model
METHOD OF OPERATION Gas Piston
9/16-24 threaded muzzle, suppressor ready.
COOLING Air-cooled

Other models vary slightly in weight depending on stock material and

*

barrel configuration.

Bula Paratrooper M21 DMR Rifle

Barrel length allows for easy removal of the gas cylinder plug Receiver-mounted scope base and iron sights produced in a
and accessory attachments to the flash suppressor. variety of barrel profiles. This model provides a perfect platform
for modern optics with the option to use backup iron sights.

6 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
GENERAL SAFETY
The rifle is capable of firing when the safety is set in the forward
The information within this document covers basic operation and
position. When engaged, the safety holds the hammer and pre-
maintenance. The instructions presented in this manual pertain to
vents the rifle from being accidentally fired. It is located just for-
all of our semi-automatic M14-style rifles. A considerable amount
ward of the trigger. The rifle will not fire when the safety is in the
of information has been obtained from Army Technical Manual
rear position. The hole in the safety can accept a lock or cable to
9-1005-223-12-P. This Technical Manual and others are available
prevent the safety from being shifted to the firing position.
for download on our website at www.buladefense.com.

CONTROLS
TRIGGER
The trigger and sear assembly is part of the trigger mechanism.
When the trigger is pulled to the rear it releases the hammer.

Safety Engaged Safety Disengaged

RIFLE IS IN FIRING MODE WHEN

WARNING
SAFETY IS DISENGAGED!
Trigger

M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 7

SPINDLE VALVE
The M14 is either gas or manually powered. Historically, the mili-
tary M14 was used to fire various flares, grenades, and other pro-
jectiles. Gas flow into the gas cylinder caused a violent movement
of the action and damaged the rifle when used for these applica-
tions. To prevent these occurrences, the spindle valve was inte-
grated into the gas path and can be rotated to turn the flow of gas
off to the cylinder. This allows for single shots.
Spindle Valve Open
8 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL
The spindle valve is mounted on the gas cylinder on most Bula
M14-style rifles. This feature controls gas flow from the barrel into
the gas cylinder and can be closed to manually operate single
shots. The flow of gas is shut off in the horizontal position and the
operator must manually pull the operating rod to reload the rifle.
Considerable effort may be required to manually pull the operating
rod to the rear after firing with the spindle valve closed. Some Bula
models do not have a spindle valve.
Spindle Valve Closed
REAR SIGHT FRONT SIGHT
The rear sight is adjustable and used to zero the rifle. Windage The M14 front sight is a “barley corn” style sight with the blade
is adjusted by rotating the windage knob on the right side of the protected on both sides.
receiver. Rotate the windage knob clockwise to shift the bullet’s
impact to the right. Elevation is adjusted by rotating the elevation
knob on the left side of the receiver. Rotate the elevation knob
counter-clockwise to elevate.

Front Sight

Elevation Knob OPERATING HANDLE

The handle of the operating rod must be used to manually open
the bolt for feeding, chambering, locking, and ejecting cartridges.
Windage Knob

Operating Rod Handle

M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 9

OPERATION UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS
GENERAL
This section contains instructions for the operation of the rifle under
conditions of moderate temperatures and humidity. Instructions
for operation under unusual conditions are covered in Operating
in Extreme Environments.
LOADING THE MAGAZINE
Hold the magazine as shown. Insert each cartridge with the bullet
toward the front of the magazine. As the magazine fills, inserting
each round becomes a little more difficult.

PREPARATION FOR FIRING

Make certain that the rifle is unloaded by pulling the operating rod
handle to the rear position. Examine the chamber to be certain
that it is empty and free of obstructions and debris.
Check for proper assembly and lubrication.
Inspect the ammunition for proper caliber and serviceability.

Loading the magazine with single cartridges

10 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL

Hold the magazine with the stripper guide mounted to the top Start with the safety engaged. Hold the rifle in one hand and in-
rear. Insert a loaded stripper into the guide and press down near sert a stripper into the clip guide of the rifle. Press down near
the rear of the top cartridge to strip cartridges into the magazine. the rear of the top cartridge to strip cartridges into the magazine.

Loading cartridges with the stripper guide Loading the magazine with a clip in the charging clip guide

M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 11

 LOADING THE RIFLE

START WITH THE SAFETY ENGAGED

SINGLE ROUND (MAGAZINE INSTALLED)
When loading a cartridge with the magazine installed, FIRST set
the SAFETY to SAFE and place the tip of the bullet into the rear
of the chamber and the rear of the cartridge into the magazine
lips. Pull the operating rod slightly to the rear to free it from the
bolt stop and release it to allow the cartridge to be fed into the
chamber. This allows the bolt to close and lock. Do not “ride” the
charging handle down by holding onto it. Release in the rear-most
position, letting the operating spring drive the bolt to the locked
position. ALWAYS load with a magazine in the rifle. Do NOT load
the rifle by inserting a cartridge directly into the chamber.

LOADING A SINGLE ROUND MANUALLY INTO THE CHAMBER

MAY CAUSE A POTENTIAL SLAMFIRE!
WARNING

12 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL

 Inserting the Magazine into the Rifle
INSERTING THE MAGAZINE
With the safety engaged, tip the loaded magazine forward at the
base to engage the operating spring guide at the top front of the
magazine well. Pull backwards and upward until the magazine
latch snaps into position. A click will be heard to indicate that the
magazine is fully seated.
Magazine in Locked Position
Pull the operating rod slightly to the rear to free it from the bolt
stop. Release it into the chamber to lock the bolt into the rifle. Do
not “ride” the charging handle down by holding onto it. Allow the
operating rod spring to drive the operating rod and bolt in to firing
position.
KEEP THE SAFETY IN THE SAFE POSITION UNTIL READY TO
FIRE. NEVER LOAD A ROUND INTO THE CHAMBER WITH THE
WARNING SAFETY OFF!
M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 13
HOW YOUR RIFLE WORKS
Each time a cartridge is fired, the rifle works in a specific order. This is known as the cycle of operation. Knowledge of each step of the
cycle is essential for understanding normal operation and aids in finding the cause and remedy to problems.
We have broken the cycle down in to eight steps. Each step is listed below with a brief description of what is taking place. Assume that a
full magazine is in the rifle, the first cartridge has been fired, and the bolt is to the rear.

1. FEEDING
Feeding takes place when a cartridge is forced into the path
of the bolt by the magazine follower. The follower rises under
pressure of the magazine spring to lift cartridges into the path
of the bolt.

2. CHAMBERING
Chambering occurs when a cartridge is driven into the cham-
ber. This takes place as the bolt moves forward under pressure
of the expanding operating rod spring. The bolt picks up the
top cartridge in the magazine and drives it forward into the
chamber. Chambering is complete when the extractor snaps
into the extracting groove on the cartridge and the ejector is
forced on to the face of the bolt putting forward pressure on
Feeding and Chambering a cartridge the cartridge case.

14 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL

3. LOCKING
Locking occurs when the bolt is fully closed. The closed bolt
prevents the loss of gas pressure until the bullet has left the
muzzle. The bolt is locked by the rear camming surface in the
hump of the operating rod, forcing the bolt roller down. This
engages the locking lugs on the bolt with the locking recesses
in the receiver.
Bolt in locked position
4. FIRING
Firing occurs when the firing pin strikes the primer in the head
of the cartridge. When the trigger is pulled, the trigger lugs at
the top of the trigger are disengaged from the hammer hooks
and the hammer is released. The hammer moves forward un-
der pressure of the hammer spring and strikes the firing pin.
This drives the firing pin forward to strike the primer. This caus-
es the propellant in the cartridge case to ignite and propel the
bullet down the barrel.
5. UNLOCKING
As the bullet is forced through the barrel by expanding gas-
es, a small amount of gas enters through the gas port into
the hollow gas piston and inside of the gas cylinder. The gas
inside the piston expands and builds up pressure that over-
comes the operating rod spring resistance. The piston moves
rearward, driving the operating rod and bolt along with it while
compressing the spring. After the piston has traveled slightly
less than 5/32", the gas ports are no longer aligned and no
more gas can enter the piston. The remaining gas in the barrel
pushes the bullet out of the muzzle. There is approximately
3/8" rearward movement of the operating rod before unlocking
begins. This is a safety feature to ensure that all the excess
gas has escaped through the barrel. After the operating rod
has moved this short distance, the camming surface inside
the operating rod pocket forces the bolt roller upward. This
disengages the locking lugs on the bolt from the locking re-
cesses in the receiver. The unlocked bolt is driven to the rear
of the receiver and stops, ready to move forward and begin the
cycle all over again. As the piston rod is driving the operating
rod rearward, any gas that is left in the gas cylinder or piston
escapes through the muzzle or the lower gas port in the gas
cylinder before the bolt opens. During this rearward motion,
the bolt picks up the expended cartridge casing.
M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 15
6. EXTRACTING pushes the cartridge case head away from the bolt face. This
causes the forward end of the cartridge case to move upwards
Extracting is pulling the empty cartridge case from the cham-
and to the right (to the left on left-handed models). The rapid
ber. As the bolt unlocks, slow, initial extraction takes place as
rearward movement of the bolt causes the cartridge case to
the cartridge case loosens from the chamber walls. As the bolt
strike the angle on the lower right corner of the magazine strip-
moves to the rear, it pulls the cartridge case with it.
per clip guide (left side on left-handed models) as the cartridge
case is turned sideways. The rapid forward movement of the
operating rod handle causes the leading edge of its “camming
hump” to strike the cartridge case with the angle on the outer
edge of the “hump”, driving the empty cartridge case out and
forward. This can leave small brass marks on the operating rod
and the clip guide. This is a normal condition.

Extracting a cartridge case from the chamber

7. EJECTION
Ejecting is throwing the cartridge case out and away from the
receiver. As soon as the bolt has withdrawn the cartridge case
clear of the chamber, the force of the ejector spring and plunger Ejecting a cartridge case from the chamber

16 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL

8. COCKING
During cocking, the hammer is captured by the trigger assem-
bly for firing the next cartridge. This occurs as the bolt travels
toward the rear. The rear end of the bolt forces the hammer
back and rides over it. If the trigger is at the pulled position,
the hammer is caught by the sear attached to the trigger. This
keeps the rifle from firing until the trigger is released and pulled
again. If the trigger is not in the pulled position, the hammer
is caught by the seating surfaces of the trigger itself. Cycling
occurs so quickly that it is not possible for a shooter to inten-
tionally release the trigger fast enough to simulate automatic
fire. During semiautomatic firing, the cocking is completed au-
tomatically. The bolt stop will engage when the magazine is
empty. The bolt will remain in the open position. The pictures
below show how to manually cock the rifle.
Cocking the bolt is locked in the open position
HANGFIRE, MISFIRE, COOK-OFF, AND
OVERLOADED AMMUNITION
A hangfire is a slow ignition of the cartridge. A misfire is failure
of the cartridge to fire at all. Both are malfunctions caused by
defective ammunition. If it is determined that either condition ex-
ists, remove the magazine, wait 10 seconds, and extract/eject
the faulty cartridge. Engage the safety and place the cartridge in
an approved container for defective ammunition.
Cook-off will normally occur when the rifle has been fired exces-
sively and causes abnormally high heat to develop in the barrel
and receiver. If a round is exposed to an overheated chamber for
an extended period, the powder begins to cook-off and may fire.
Likewise, ammunition that has been exposed to extreme heat will
also be susceptible to a cook-off condition.
In the event of extremely high-pressured ammunition (excessive
powder or incorrect powder), the forward lower bolt lip may fail
during firing and direct the excessive gas pressure through the mag-
azine. Depending on the amount of force and pressure experienced
in overcharging, the magazine may completely disassemble.
USE ONLY AMMUNITION RECOMMENDED FOR M14 OR M1
GARAND RIFLES. IN THE EVENT OF IMPROPER AMMUNI-
TION OR EXTREMELY HIGH-PRESSURED AMMUNITION, THE
FORWARD LOWER BOLT LIP MAY FAIL AND DIRECT THE EX-
WARNING CESSIVE GAS PRESSURE SAFELY THROUGH THE MAGAZINE.
DEPENDING ON THE AMOUNT OF FORCE AND PRESSURES
EXPERIENCED IN OVERCHARGING, THE MAGAZINE MAY
COMPLETELY DISASSEMBLE.
M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 17
UNLOADING AND MAKING THE RIFLE SAFE
Place the SAFETY in SAFE position.
Remove the magazine by pressing the magazine latch and pivot-
ing the bottom of the magazine forward and pulling it downward.
Pull the operating rod fully rearward to extract and eject the car-
tridge from the chamber while pressing in the bolt stop in order
to hold the bolt open as the operating rod is eased forward. Note
that jarring the rifle can cause the operating rod to release and
close.
ALWAYS REMOVE THE MAGAZINE FIRST
IF THE MAGAZINE IS NOT EMPTY WHEN REMOVED, A LIVE
ROUND WILL BE LEFT IN THE CHAMBER. THIS COULD SET
WARNING THE STAGE FOR AN ACCIDENT. AFTER REMOVAL OF THE
MAGAZINE, IT IS IMPERATIVE TO FULLY RETRACT THE OPER-
ATING ROD TO EXTRACT A POSSIBLE LIVE ROUND ACCIDEN-
TALLY REMAINING IN THE CHAMBER.
FIRING THE RIFLE
CAUTION: KEEP THE SAFETY ENGAGED, THE MUZZLE
POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION, AND YOUR FINGER OFF
WARNING
OF THE TRIGGER UNTIL YOU ARE READY TO SHOOT!!!
With the safety disengaged, pull the trigger smoothly to the rear.
Use a controlled, gradual increase in pressure until the rifle fires.
18 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL
Avoid jerking or snatching the trigger.
When the trigger is pulled, a cartridge is fired, the spent cartridge
case is ejected, the hammer is cocked, and a new cartridge is
chambered. All of this action takes place in about seven tenths
of a second.
WHEN FIRING THE RIFLE, MAKE SURE THE MUZZLE IS
POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION.
WARNING
When firing, hold the rifle firmly with both hands. If the rifle is
not held firmly, a condition called “Limp Wristing” occurs. This
is common among bolt-action target shooters. When using an
M14-style rifle, this could cause the rifle to recoil into the shoulder
and bounce forward, re-striking the trigger finger and creating a
double shot. This is an operator error, not a rifle failure. It most
commonly occurs when firing from a bench rest or bipod.
After the last cartridge in the magazine is fired, the magazine follow-
er pushes up on the bolt lock, holding the bolt in the rear position.
To remove the magazine, grasp with your thumb on the maga-
zine latch and fingers holding the front of the magazine. Press in-
ward on the magazine latch and swing the magazine forward and
downward. It will be released and able to be pulled out of the rifle.
OPERATING IN EXTREME ENVIRONMENTS
GENERAL
This section covers conditions likely to be encountered during
hunting or law enforcement duty. It further provides necessary
operating and safety instructions to enable the rifle to render
satisfactory performance and yield the anticipated reliability built
into the equipment. Although the rifle is designed to operate in
extreme and adverse conditions, it is prudent to adhere to the
precautions listed below.
OPERATION IN EXTREME COLD OR HEAT
When the rifle is employed in temperatures below 32°F, it must be
kept clean and lubricated with a suitable grade of lubricant. Many
common solvents and lubricants are usable for maintaining your
M14. It is important to avoid any product containing acid.
Operate the various mechanisms of the rifle regularly to prevent
them from freezing. Frozen liquids and/or contaminants may
cause functioning issues.
Protect the rifle with a proper cover when exposed to cold or wet
conditions. Make sure that the rifle is kept clean and lubricated
more often during unfavorable conditions.
In hot weather, the hands are likely to sweat. Therefore, wipe the
rifle dry and protect it with a light coat of oil.
During periods of high humidity, the rifle must be kept clean, dry,
and well lubricated to prevent rust formation.
When exposed to sand, snow, or muddy conditions, wipe the rifle
regularly and keep it covered as much as possible. Application
of lubricants to exposed surfaces and moving parts will protect it
from abnormal wear and rusting.
• Clean and lubricate more frequently when exposed to salty at-
mospheric conditions.
• Frequent cleaning and lubrication will preserve your rifle and
avoid many causes for malfunction.
• During periods of inactivity, store under protective covering, in
storage shelters, or containers designed for the rifle.
DISCHARGING FIREARMS IN POORLY VENTILATED AREAS,
CLEANING FIREARMS, AND HANDLING AMMUNITION MAY
RESULT IN EXPOSURE TO LEAD. LEAD MAY CAUSE BIRTH
WARNING
DEFECTS, REPRODUCTIVE HARM, CANCER AND OTHER SE-
RIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY. ALWAYS HAVE ADEQUATE VENTI-
LATION. WASH HANDS THOROUGHLY AFTER EXPOSURE.
THIS PRODUCT CAN EXPOSE YOU TO CHEMICALS INCLUD-
ING LEAD WHICH IS KNOWN TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
WARNING TO CAUSE CANCER AND BIRTH DEFECTS OR OTHER RE-
PRODUCTIVE HARM. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.
P65WARNINGS.CA.GOV/FOOD.
M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 19
MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
CLEANING KIT NOT INCLUDED SLING AND CLEANING KIT COMPONENTS
Use brass bore brushes and brass cleaning rods to avoid damag- 1. Bore Brush 4. Cleaning Rod Case
ing the bores of the M14. Pull-through bore cleaning devices are
excellent. Steel devices such as the military cleaning rods should 2. Chamber Brush 5. Combination Tool
not be used. 3. Lubricant Case 6. Cleaning rod sections
The chamber brush is used to clean carbon or contaminants from
the chamber.
Standard military cleaning kits fit into
the recesses in the butt of the M14.
The handle provides tools for re-
moving the gas cylinder plug, dis-
assembling and reassembling bolts,
tightening rear sights, and tightening
butt screws. Avoid using steel rods
because they easily damage the rifle
bores. Use brass rods instead. One
section of the cleaning rod is attached
to the chamber brush to create a
ratchet motion to rotate the brush in
the chamber. This option is only avail-
able with the walnut stock versions. It Cleaning Kit in the
is available in both right-hand and left- Buttstock of the M14
hand models.

20 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL

DISASSEMBLY AND REASSEMBLY
CAUTION: VERIFY THAT THE RIFLE IS NOT LOADED!!!

Turn the rifle upside down above a clean surface that will not
cause damage if dropped.

UNLOCK AND REMOVE THE TRIGGER GROUP

To obtain leverage, place a round ¼" brass rod through the hole
near the rear of the trigger guard with the bolt closed. Rotate the
device away from the stock and forward to unlock the trigger
guard from the receiver. Remove Trigger Group

REMOVE THE TRIGGER GROUP

Grip the trigger guard and pull the entire trigger group straight out
of the rifle. Set it aside, making sure that the barrel and receiver
group do not fall out of the stock. It may be necessary to rock the
trigger group back and forth in order to loosen it for removal. It may
also be necessary to turn the rifle upside down and tap the mag-
azine latch with a brass drift to start moving the trigger group out.
Unlock Trigger Group This is especially normal on a new tightly fitted rifle. It will loosen
up over time. Best practice is to not remove more than necessary.

M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 21

 REMOVE THE BARREL AND RECEIVER GROUP FROM
THE STOCK
Turn the rifle with the receiver facing downward. Grasp the rear
sight knobs and pull the receiver out of the stock with a forward
motion, freeing it from the stock. Set the stock aside. If it cannot
be removed in this manner, for instance if the receiver is held in by
epoxy bedding, turn the barrel and receiver group upside down
and tap the horizontal safety ledge crossing the receiver with a
brass drift. DO NOT TAP the bottom of the charging clip guide.
Doing so can cause the dovetail holding it above the receiver to
fracture and the clip guide to fall out. The rifle will still fire but, will
no longer be able to load through the clip guide.
Place the barrel and receiver group on a surface that will not
mar them.

UNLOCK THE OPERATING SPRING AND GUIDE

Grasp the operating spring ahead of the receiver and pull it for-
ward slightly to relieve pressure on the connector lock. Pull the
connector lock pin outward until it stops. The connector lock pin
is the round component that holds in the operating spring guide (it
has a tiny spring pin protruding from it). This will free the operating
spring guide and spring.

Remove the operating spring and guide

from the operating rod and set it aside

22 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL

REMOVE THE OPERATING ROD
Examine the receiver and note the clearance notch machined that it lines up with the clearance notch. Rotate the operating rod
above the operating rod track on the right side of the receiver (left up and away from the receiver. Disengage the operating rod from
side on left-handed models). Pull the operating rod to the rear so the receiver by pulling it to the rear.

M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 23

 REMOVE THE BOLT
The bolt will now be loose in the
receiver. Grasp it by the right
locking lug (left lug on left-hand
models) and wiggle it up and to-
ward the operating rod side so
that the firing pin will clear its slot.
DISASSEMBLY IS COMPLETE AND THE RIFLE IS
READY FOR CLEANING
Further disassembly is not needed for routine cleaning.
Reassemble in reverse order. Note: On a new, very tight rifle, it
may be necessary to use a rubber mallet on the ears of the trigger
group to get them to fully seat against the stock. This is normal.

REMOVE THE GAS CYLINDER

PLUG
Remove the Gas Cylinder Plug
with the M14 combination tool or
an appropriate 3/8" hex wrench.

REMOVE THE PISTON

Remove the piston by tipping
the muzzle down. Do not let the
piston fall onto any surface that
may damage or scratch it.

24 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL

CLEANING AND LUBRICATION
GENERAL
This section contains general lubricating instructions for the proper
maintenance of the M14.
Many common solvents and lubricants are available for maintaining
your M14. It is important to avoid any product containing acid.
Keep all lubricants in closed containers and store them in a clean,
dry place away from external heat. Do not allow dust, dirt, or other
foreign material to contaminate the lubricants.
Before lubricating the rifle, wipe all lubrication points free of dirt
and grease. After lubrication, wipe all excessive lubrication from
moving parts to prevent accumulation of foreign matter.
There is not a specific “break in” procedure for the M14. It is rec-
ommended that the rifle bore be cleaned thoroughly after the first
use and cleaned regularly after each daily use.
Use rifle bore cleaner that is non-acidic to clean metal parts.
SPECIFIC
To clean the bore, use a “pull-through” device to pull bronze
brushes from the breech and out of the muzzle. Repeat 5 to 10
times. Then, pull a patch dampened with cleaning solvent from
the breech and out the muzzle. Then, pull through a dry patch to
remove excess solvent. It is not necessary to repeat until a dry
patch comes out spotless. Protect the bore with an oiled patch by
pulling it through the bore in the same manner.
After cleaning with solvent, dry parts and apply a light coat of
general-purpose lubricating oil. Pay special attention to exposed
parts and areas showing wear. Verify that the flash suppressor or
muzzle brake are cleaned and lubricated to protect them from rust
after firing.
Apply a light coat of rifle grease to the surfaces on the locking lugs
of the bolt, lug recesses in the receiver, bolt track, anti-friction bolt
roller, and operating rod guide groove.
Manually function operating rod and bolt assembly with a front to
back motion before replacing the operating spring and operating
spring guide. They should operate freely without binding.
Inspect the rifle for proper assembly and function.
Inspect to verify that moving parts function smoothly.
M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 25
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE CHECKS AND SERVICES
GENERAL
This section contains instructions for performing periodic preven-
tive maintenance checks and services required to maintain the
M14 Rifle.
First, (ALWAYS FIRST), verify that the rifle chamber is empty. Do
this by pulling the operating rod and bolt to the rear position and
look into the chamber.
Inspect the rifle for dents, cracks, burrs, fouling (corrosive
powder etching), foreign matter, looseness, and defective or
missing components.
26 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL
Manually cycle the rifle to confirm that there is no obstruction or
resistance in the action.
Insert the magazine into the rifle to verify that it fits and is retained.
Ensure that the bore is clean and protected with a light film of oil
or grease.
TROUBLESHOOTING
GENERAL
Troubleshooting the M14 is commonly performed based on a
detailed list of possible faults.
The Cycle of Operations is best used as a guide for troubleshooting.
It is based on the principle that all malfunctions are caused by
the faulty interaction of components including breaking, jamming,
wearing, deforming, or missing parts.
To troubleshoot a problem, first determine which step in the cycle
of operations failed. For example, a failure to fire can be logically
traced from the trigger, through the hammer spring, hammer, firing
pin, and to the primer (ammunition).
MAINTENANCE OF MAJOR GROUPS
GENERAL
Military rifle manuals going back to the 19th century contained The slide, rails, and bolt track should be cleaned with Q-tips. The
a wise statement that is worthy of consideration today: receiver track and locking lug cams of the operating rod should be
lubricated by drawing the bolt back slightly and applying grease.
“Experience has shown that the majority of those rifles that be-
come unserviceable do so through the lack of knowledge and The action should not be removed from the stocks until the rifle
proper care, not from overuse.” exhibits some sort of problem, extreme fouling, or corrosive pow-
der etching. Ensure that all surfaces are preserved with a light oil.
While lack of proper maintenance can result in decay of a rifle (or
impair proper operation), excessive maintenance based on curios- Understanding these guidelines on bedded rifles is so import-
ity or traditions left over from white glove military experience dam- ant that M21 sniper rifles (National Match rifles with a telescopic
age firearms more than the wear of firing. sight attached) were not officially allowed to be disassembled for
cleaning unless the person doing so graduated from the National
It is wise to familiarize yourself on how to field strip a rifle (basic
Match Armorer’s Course offered at Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois.
disassembly and assembly). This is the extent of disassembly that
Excessive disassembly and assembly is detrimental to the integrity
is adequate for normal maintenance.
of the rifle.
One particular issue is overmaintenance of glass bedded rifles.
They are made of close-fitting components and removing the re-
ceiver from it’s stock can loosen or break up the bedding. Glass
bedded rifles should be cleaned from the outside and the gas sys-
tem cleaned by removing the piston for cleaning. Lightly lubricate
as recommended above.

M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 27

 KEY COMPONENTS

1. Bolt assembly
2. Barrel and receiver group
3. Operating rod
4. Stock and butt plate assembly
5. Trigger group
6. Magazine assembly
7. Gas piston
8. Gas plug
9. Spring guide
10. Operating rod spring

M14 rifle field stripped

28 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL

MAINTENANCE OF THE MAGAZINE
GENERAL
The magazine is perhaps the most important part of the M14. With-
out it, the rifle is a single shot device. The M14 magazine is extreme-
ly rugged but, may be damaged by dropping or crushing. This sec-
tion contains operator maintenance instructions for the magazine.

DISASSEMBLY/ASSEMBLY
NOTE: Assembly is in the reverse order of disassembly.

CLEANING, INSPECTION AND REPAIR

Remove dirt, grit, or other foreign matter with a clean cloth.
If it is contaminated or fouled inside, disassemble it for cleaning
by pressing a punch or cartridge tip into the hole of the magazine
base. Pry the rear of the base upward to allow it to be pushed to
Disassembly/assembly of the magazine
the rear and removed. Grasp the magazine spring and “walk” it
out of the magazine. Tip the follower and wiggle it out of the box.
• Inspect magazine for dents, dirt, and rust. USE ONLY AMMUNITION RECOMMENDED FOR M14 OR M1
GARAND RIFLES. IN THE EVENT OF IMPROPER AMMUNITION
• Inspect the spring for distortion, bends, or weakness. OR EXTREMELY HIGH-PRESSURED AMMUNITION, THE FOR-
WARD LOWER BOLT LIP MAY FAIL AND DIRECT THE EXCES-
• Replace the damaged magazine or damaged parts if available. WARNING
SIVE GAS PRESSURE SAFELY THROUGH THE MAGAZINE.

M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 29

AMMUNITION
GENERAL
Unlike the government M14, the Bula M14-style rifle is manufac-
tured to accept both NATO and commercially available “.308 Win-
chester” ammunition.
The M14 rifle was designed to shoot military cartridges with
pressures of approximately 50,000 PSI. Care must be taken to
ensure that extremely high pressure ammunition made for man-
ually operated bolt action rifles is not used in gas operated rifles
like the M14. Ammunition with bullet weights over 172 grains are
not recommended.
Using reloaded, manually loaded, or excessive high pressure
ammunition will void the warranty.
BULA DEFENSE DISCLAIMS ANY LIABILITY FOR THE USE
OF EXCESSIVE HIGH PRESSURE, RE-MANUFACTURED, IM-
WARNING PROPERLY LOADED, OR MANUALLY LOADED AMMUNITION.
CARE, HANDLING, AND PRESERVATION
OF AMMUNITION
Store ammunition under protective cover and away from exces-
sive heat and extreme temperatures.
30 | M14 RIFLE MANUAL
PREPARATION FOR FIRING
After removal of packaging materials, cartridges are ready for
firing. Cartridges prepared for firing (but not fired), should be re-
turned to their original packaging or packed in suitable boxes.
Cartridges should be used in subsequent firings to reduce stocks
of opened containers.
PRECAUTIONS IN FIRING
Observe the precautions listed below to prevent personal injury or
damage to the rifle.
Cartridges (especially those to be loaded into the magazine) must
be free of sand, mud, moisture, frost, snow, ice, grease, or other
foreign matter.
Do not use corroded ammunition. The cartridge cases may be
weakened or may seize in the chamber.
Brass cartridge cases are easily dented and must be protected
from hard knocks and blows. Dented cartridge cases may cause
jamming in the chamber and difficulty in extraction.
Cartridges having loose bullets or other damage must not be used.
Foreign matter will be expelled as a projectile in firing. Blank cartridg-
es should be visually inspected for evidence of any foreign matter.
Do not fire cartridges overheated by exposure to direct sun rays
or other sources of heat. Hazardous chamber pressures may de-
velop in firing such cartridges.
Once you stop shooting, a cartridge in the chamber of a HOT RI-
FLE should be removed immediately! This will prevent accidental
firing caused by heat exposure to the round.

M14 RIFLE MANUAL | 31