Recommended scope/gear for action/tactical rifle matches?

[Kwanger]

I'm going to go and shoot a local action rifle match soon. As I understand it, its a multistage event with targets from spitting distance out to 200.

I am planning on using my M&P15T. I currently don't have a scope on this rifle - any recommends, without breaking the bank, for this type of competition - variable power or fixed?

Also, what kind of mag holders do you find works best? Sling?

Any other hints and tips most welcome.

 

[Zak Smith]

If you have iron sights on the rifle already, I recommend just using those for your first match. Typically you will be in Limited division and only graded against other Limited (iron sight) shooters. There are a variety of optics choices for Modified/Tactical division, and these range from about $300 at the low end (for something worthwhile anyway) up to $2000+.

I like the Blade-Tech Kydex belt mag holders available from Brownells. Slings are usually optional. The Vickers sling, the VTAC sling, and the Magpul sling are amongst the best right now.



article | Evolution of the 3-Gun Practical Rifle

-z

 

[Dr.Rob]

I used a UTG 4x fixed power on my Colt 6920, no it's not expensive or sexy, but it holds zero on and off the rifle. 4x is plenty for 300 yards.

I have a DPMS leather sling, often we were moving so fast (time limit stage) that I didn't get to use it the way I wanted. But on slower stages... you have x minutes to fire 5 rounds... you'll have time to USE your sling properly.

Saw a number of guys with 'hands free' slings that used them during standards while the waited their turns.

I used a GI 4 mag chest rig.. it's bulky but comfortable.

Knee and elbow pads are a realllllly good idea. Also bring water/gatorade/snacks. It can be a long day in the sun.

 

[Hk Dan]

200? Why do ya want a scope again? That's the START of USMC qual courses with iron sights, dude.

 

[Kwanger]

200? Why do ya want a scope again? That's the START of USMC qual courses with iron sights, dude.

I don't particularly....I have irons on all 3 of my rifles and have next to no experience with scopes of any kind other than issue fixed 4x32 scopes. But being as I've never shot one of these rifle matches before, I thought I'd ask - besides, these comps are not at all the same as as a qual course - I compete in USPSA pistol matches, can't imagine the rifle being too much different. I'm well aware (and am not interested in spending loads) that race gear isn't the be all and end all, but even with my limited scope experience, at longish range, its a darn sight easier to get good hits with a scope than irons. But I also know from experience that that same kind of fixed sight can be an ass-ache at 20 yards.

I will turn up scopeless for the first one to have a look-see - but no harm in asking what the "scope of the day" is at these things.