[jamison]

So first off, I'm new to the M1A, and I just bought my first one. Anyways, I took it out to the range today and I shot less than thirty rounds through it and what do you know, I have one failed strike and I pull open the chamber and here pops out a chunk of circular metal. So I'm thinking that's not good, so I field strip and find the roller in about three pieces.

So here's my question, what is the most common causes of this issue?

Also I bought the rifle used, it's a 94 SAI manufacture with extremely low round count with all original parts.

 

[devildog178]

Bolt Roller

Well the good news is Springfield Armory should fix it free of charge! Its a bummer that it broke though.

 

[Gus Fisher]

The reason it broke almost certainly was due to there not being clearance for the roller when the bolt is all the way forward and down. You probably can notice a ding where the bolt roller should rest in that position.

Yes, indeed, call SAinc. for a tracking number and send it back for correction.

 

[MaadiMan]

You can order a new bolt roller from Numrich Gun Parts for $5.25 + shipping.
It's a little tricky putting in on though. You can't force it.

 

[GardenValley]

Are all FNG's oblivious to the date of a post they respond to?

MaadMan, you replied to a post from 2011. I think the OP has found a bolt roller by now.