The M14/M1A is a heavy rifle. But, in my humble opinion if you aren't in good enough shape physically to lug around the rifle and ammo, then you need to start working out. I am 64 next month and hike around my neck of the woods with my Scout and 500 rounds of ammo when I hike in the timber. If the s**t ever does hit the fan and I have to bug out, I don't want my physical condition to dictate what and how much I can carry. Once a month or so I hike 5-10 miles with my full BOB, Scout Squad and 500 rounds of ammo. I also put my AR7 in BOB with 525 rounds of .22lr. But that's just me. I lift weights every day but my cardio is the hiking. Just a thought...