M1A Scout Squad Scope

[Roughneck08]

I recently purchased a M1A Scout Squad. Let me first say I have been waiting several years to get one and it was worth the wait. A fantastic design.

I am wanting to purchase a scout scope for it and mount it on the forward factory rail mount. I really like the scout scope idea for a better field of view for closer engagements and as well as longer distance shots.

I do not want an Aimpoint or Eotech or any cqb sight for this rifle. I have experience with Simmons and Nikon rifle scopes on my hunting rifles. Cheaper optics I understand.

I'm not going to skimp on optics with this rifle it deserves nice glass. I am wanting a Leupold scout scope of some form. It would be used for hunting and target shooting from 25 out to 400 yards.

I have heard that the factory scout rail isn't top tier as well. Am open to any ideas you might share or your similar set-ups. My budget would be around $500 to $600. Anyways I wanted to ask my friends here on the Highroad as there are some knowledgable folks on M1A's. I appreciate your replies in advance. Will be posting a range review and pictures this weekend when I return from the range.

Regards

 

[ultradoc]

can't wait!

 

[ny32182]

When I took my scout squad apart for the first time and found that the rail is just bolted to the barrel, I was... less than enamored.

To me this is an iron sight rifle. Obviously your milage varies, but... I think I'm going to be as likely to remove the rail and source a standard top dust cover piece to go on there as I am anything else.

I'll still be curious about what kind of scope feedback you get though. So... free bump.

 

[henschman]

From people I know who have done this, the Leupold 2.5x scout scope is popular, as is the Burris 2-7x handgun scope.

 

[Roughneck08]

Ok, outstanding, thank you, henschman that is great help!

 

[Roughneck08]

Well, after skimming through some older threads it appears that Burris handgun scopes is the way to go. I think I might have stumbled across the 3-12x32 that I like. I just think the .308 screams for magnification. Anymore input from anyone with experience is greatly appreciated.

 

[jeepguy]

alot of people seem to go with the ultimak rail becuse it has more area for mounting scout type optics and it sits lower. i have learned alot from the guys over at m 14 firing line forum. best of luck to you and i hope you enjoy that new rifle.

 

[Hani Pasha]

Why not one of those sweet Trijicon ACOGs?

Out of curiosity, why are EOTechs and Aimpoints off the table?

 

[HorseSoldier]

The Leupold 2.5 scout scope is really nice for quick shots at closer ranges -- not as good as a good red dot, but fast handling.

 

[ny32182]

ACOG eye relief is way too short for a forward mounted application. A red dot would work great, but I assume the OP is looking for some magnification, which would rule them out.

 

[Balrog]

They make Aimpoints with mild magnification (ie, 2x).

 

[LemmyCaution]

I think I might have stumbled across the 3-12x32 that I like.

I'd be cautious with the 3-12x. Your field of view through the scope is going to be tiny at 12x. You may also have issues with eye relief at higher magnification. At 12x, the eye relief might be so long as to force you to mount the optic very far forward, unbalancing the rifle.

Most people with the Scout/Squad feel that its effective range is about 600 meters. Many people also feel that your optical magnification should track at a 1:100 ratio for your shooting range, ie.- 1x @ 100 meters, 2x @ 200 meters, ad naus.

Given that, the 2-7x Burris handgun scope seems to be the most popular of the variable magnification scopes people are putting on the S/S.

The Leupold scout scope is also very popular. One might consider having the Leupold Custom Shop put some M1 turrets on a scout scope for dialing in longer ranges.

Personally, I haven't used the forward rail on my S/S. I installed a receiver mount, instead. I've kept the scout rail on, in case I ever have the funds for a PVS22 type night optic.

Also- forget about the ACOG. There just isn't a good way to mount one on an M14 type rifle (unless you want to put an $800 aftermarket stock on it). Even if you can get the eye relief to work, you'll need a cheek rest made from a couch cushion to get a decent cheek weld. The ACOG was designed specifically for AR pattern rifles. They just don't work with M14s.

 

[Roughneck08]

Thank you all for such fine advice. I have an EOtech on my rock river and I don't want another room clearing CQB rifle. I want to add some distance to match the .308 ballisistics. Still deciding, but thank you all again.