Yes, that's right, the SOCOM's forward rail is not picatinny spec.
Here's an option that goes in place of the handguard:
Ultimak rail
Or http://www.amegaranges.com/miniM14.php
Go here for more info about the M14 than you could imagine. There is a scope mount FAQ that you can download. You can't go wrong with a Smith Enterprise or ARMS:
http://www.imageseek.com/m1a/
Or you can swap stocks for a SAGE or Troy pistol grip/collapsible stock!
actually the socom 16's rail IS weaver/picatinny spec