Which M1A?

I know nothing about M1/M1A rifles, but I want an M1A because, America.

Looking at the available springfield m1a's I see things that vary from 1300 to 2600 dollars. Is there anything different about them other than barrel length and stock material?

 

There is a ton of difference. The standard has no special features. The loaded is the next step up and it comes with a better/heavier barrel and nm front sight. After that you get up into the match rifles with mcmillan or big red shaped heavy stocks, heavy barrels, glass bedded actions, nm sights and the other match ready tweaks. If youve never had one and dont need national match features the standard works just fine for plinking.