The M1A and M14 rifles are among the most versatile rifles that deliver incredible performance for its owners. If you want to further maximize the performance of this rifle, then it would be ideal to pair it up with the most reliable and the best scope for M1A or M14 rifle.

The rifle is loved by many even with its somewhat expensive price so it makes sense to do something to ensure that it continues to deliver the best performance. With the help of a good scope, you can further boost its accuracy and improve the overall handling of it.

It allows it to showcase its inherent positive qualities, including being faster compared to bolt-action semi-automatics and sure and solid grip. It is also possible to maximize its shooting range with the aid of a good scope.

Interested in finding the most suitable M1A and M14 scope? Then let the following short reviews enlighten you about some of the most reliable products in this industry.

Best Scope for M1A/M14 Reviews of 2022

Best Overall
Our Score 9.5 Out of 10
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Our Score 9.0 Out of 10
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Our Score 8.6 Out of 10
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Our Score 8.2 Out of 10
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Our Score 7.8 Out of 10
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Our Score 7.2 Out of 10
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Our Score 6.8 Out of 10
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Our Score 6.5 Out of 10
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Our Score 6.3 Out of 10
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Our Score 6.0 Out of 10
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Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 SFP Scout Riflescope

Our Score 9.5 out of 10
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32 Scout, Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescope - V-Plex Reticle
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32 Scout, Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescope - V-Plex Reticle amazon.com Check price

The 2-7x32 Crossfire II Scout Riflescope is perfect for Use on your Scout rifle, The V-Plex reticle is a popular all-purpose hunting reticle intended for a wide variety of hunting applications
With...

Being categorized as an all-purpose, such a reticle is surely suitable for various hunting applications. It is also known as a long eye relief scope for M1A Scout considering the fact that its eye relief reaches up to 9.45 inches. Combine that with a truly forgiving eye box and I am sure it would be a big help in quick target and sight picture acquisition.

It is equipped with a fast focus eyepiece, which promotes easy and speedy focusing of the reticle. I am also glad that this high-quality tactical scope for M1A and M14 that is good for hunting features fully multi-coated and anti-reflective lens as this contributes to providing clear and bright pictures and views.

The durability of this riflescope for MIA Socom II and 16 is also very noticeable. While it comes in a 1-piece tube, I am sure of its strength because it uses aircraft-grade aluminum material for its construction. This does not only showcases how strong this riflescope is but also proves how shockproof it is.

Many also perceive it as the best Vortex scope for M1A or M14 since it is built to be not only O-ring sealed but also nitrogen-purged. This makes it fog-proof and waterproof, allowing it to tackle all situations and environments. Another reason to love this amazing scope is the presence of the capped reset turrets.

The turrets are finger adjustable using MOA clicks, making it possible for you to reset them to zero each time you finished sighting it in.

However, it tends to get fuzzy from time to time but you can clear this fuzziness by adjusting the eye relief accordingly.

Pros
  • Ideal for all hunting and tactical applications
  • Built to be strong and shockproof – thanks to its aircraft-grade aluminum material
  • O-ring sealed and nitrogen-purged, proving its fog-proofing and waterproofing feature
  • Features a fast-focus eyepiece
  • Quick target and sight picture acquisition
Cons
  • Tends to get fuzzy occasionally

Built for incredible performance, this specific M1A or M14 scope will surely meet or even exceed your initial expectations with its numerous positive features, including but not limited to its long eye relief, multi-coated lens, better turrets that you can easily reset, and the quick-focus eyepiece.

Monstrum Tactical 3-9×32 Riflescope

Our Score 9.2 out of 10
Monstrum 3-9x32 Rifle Scope with Rangefinder Reticle and High Profile Scope Rings
Monstrum 3-9x32 Rifle Scope with Rangefinder Reticle and High Profile Scope Rings amazon.com Check price

Tactical rifle scope providing crystal clear targeting at 3-9x magnification, with a 32mm objective diameter and an eye relief of 3.5-3.8 Inches
Glass rangefinder reticle for on-the-fly range estim...

Such levels of brightness promote better visibility, especially when used at night or during low-light conditions. Another reason why I consider this scope as the perfect choice for the M1A or M14 rifle is that it comes equipped with the adjustable 3-9x magnification with over 300-yard target.

I find its objective lens diameter a huge advantage, too, because it promotes sharp and clear focus of the image you are targeting. It is also built in a way that you can make estimates on the range while also letting you eliminate the parallax. You can easily estimate the range with the help of its range finder reticle.

I can also say that it is the best scout scope for M1A Socom and M14 because it is built with strength and durability in mind. I am sure you will notice that right away with the aircraft-grade aluminum body used in the scope, which is also sealed with a nitrogen-charged tube. This allows it to be more resistant to water fog and water.

The scope is intuitive and user-friendly, too. It has incredible AO adjustment and has the ability to offer a clear sight picture. One more thing that makes this a great scope for M14 or M1A is its ability to do a fair and accurate estimate of the target’s distance.

However, there are some occasional complaints about this scope having tilted shapes of colors upon zeroing in. Those are only occasional cases, though, so it should not bother you that much.

Pros
  • Ideal scope for target shooting and hunting
  • Proven strong and durable while being truly fog and water-resistant
  • Easy to use and intuitively designed
  • Promotes ease in doing a fair and accurate estimate of your target’s distance
  • Provides five levels of brightness designed to boost visibility
Cons
  • Occasional cases of tilted shapes of colors once zeroed in

For its price, this is surely one of the best M14 or M1A scopes designed to give you a great experience on the hunting or target shooting field.

Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sight

Our Score 9.0 out of 10
Vortex StrikeFire II Sight w/ 4 MOA Dot w/ Free S&H — 4 models
Vortex StrikeFire II Sight w/ 4 MOA Dot w/ Free S&H — 4 models opticsplanet.com Check price

Color: Black Included Accessories: Vortex Micro 3x Magnifier, Black, V3XM , Vortex StrikeFire II Red Dot, 4 MOA Red/Green Dot w/ Lower 1/3 Co-Witness Cantilever Mount SF-RG-501

I am glad to pick this among the numerous scopes designed for the M1A or M14 EBR rifle because it lets me operate it between a couple of dot colors as well as ten settings of brightness. This makes it possible for me to adjust it with ease based on certain changing situations and conditions.

Another reason why I consider it as a high-quality scope for M1A national match rifle or super match rifle is its fully multi-coated lens. I find this type of lens truly valuable as it delivers a bright, clean, and clear point of view (POV) without any obstructions.

It also boasts of its unlimited eye relief, which is truly beneficial as it guarantees speed when it comes to acquiring your target. This specific scope also leaves a good impression because of its built-in offset cantilever mount. Many users find this useful in

allowing the sight to move forward so they can use it along with backup iron sights and magnifier simultaneously.

The manufacturers also kept the users in mind by creating a lightweight and compact 1-piece chassis for this product. Even with its light

ness and compactness, it is still shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof. It can even handle impact and recoil.

However, some complained about the field of view, which is a bit lacking for them.

Pros
  • Versatile as it suits various shooting applications
  • Lightweight and compact without losing its strength
  • Can be adjusted based on the changing condition
  • Built to be waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof
  • Promotes a speedy acquisition of targets
Cons
  • Somewhat lacking in the field of view department

The overall performance of this M1A optics is fantastic while still being accessible at a reasonable price so it is no longer surprising to see it being on top of the choices of those who are searching for a high-quality scope for M1A EBR and M14.

CVLIFE 4-16×44 Tactical Riflescope

Our Score 8.5 out of 10
CVLIFE 4-16x44 Tactical Rifle Scope Red and Green Illuminated Built with Locking Turret Sunshade and Scope Mount Included
CVLIFE 4-16x44 Tactical Rifle Scope Red and Green Illuminated Built with Locking Turret Sunshade and Scope Mount Included amazon.com Check price

With the locking turret, the CVLIFE rifle scope is a great choice for hunting and shooting.
Completed with the fully coated optical glass, the scope would give you a bright and high-contrast image....

I am truly impressed with the way this riflescope is constructed because its single-piece tube stands rigidly because of the high-strength aluminum alloy material used for it. I also find utmost satisfaction with the green and red reticle illumination design used in this scope because this further enhances its versatility.

It is mainly because it contributes a lot in making M1A or M14 sniper scope ideal for use on diverse lighting and environmental conditions. Another great capability of this scope is that it lets you create a view, which is free of any parallax from fifteen yards onwards. It also boasts of its precise machining for the focusing cam.

Another positive trait of this tactical riflescope is that it is compatible with the needs of both farsighted and nearsighted users. It is because of the dioptric adjustment lens integrated into the ocular.

Both of those who deal with farsightedness and nearsightedness can even obtain a clear viewfinder image conveniently because they do not need to use a specific pair of eyeglasses. It is clear at maximum magnification while also boasting of an eyepiece, which promotes smooth and easy operation.

I like the presence of the sunshade, too, because it indicates that you can utilize this scope for all lighting conditions.

However, I discovered that the parallax adjustment and the focus is a bit difficult to turn because of its tightness.

Pros
  • Rigid, strong, and durable construction
  • Useful on diverse lighting and environmental conditions
  • Can create parallax-free views
  • Ideal for both farsighted and nearsighted users
  • Features a sunshade
Cons
  • Slightly difficult to turn parallax adjustment and focus

In general, many consider it as the best scope for M14 and M1A as it is not only built while prioritizing quality but is also created by ensuring that it is highly accurate while also being easy to zero in and set up.

Primary Arms 4-16×44 SFP Riflescope

Our Score 8.0 out of 10
Primary Arms 4-16x44mm Riflescope - Illuminated Mil Dot 610054, Color: Black, Tube Diameter: 30 mm, $5.91 Off w/ Free S&H
Primary Arms 4-16x44mm Riflescope - Illuminated Mil Dot 610054, Color: Black, Tube Diameter: 30 mm, $5.91 Off w/ Free S&H opticsplanet.com Check price

The Primary Arms 4-16x44mm SFP Illuminated Riflescope is great for competition shooting when you need to be able to make adjustments quickly. These Riflescopes from Primary Arms are equipped with e...

I like the fact that this high-quality scope for M1A .308 rifle and M14 works well for long-distance shooting. The economical 4x zoom setting ensures that you can use it for such distance. It comes with finger-adjustable and exposed elevation and windage turrets through tactile and audible clicks.

Another benefit of this riflescope is that you can easily lock in its zero. It takes pride in its illuminated mil-dot reticle, which promotes ease in switching in between long-range and short-range viewing. Another positive feature that I am sure you can take full advantage of is the parallax adjustment knob mounted on the side.

You can use this knob in ensuring that the reticle stays free of parallax while the targeted view or image is sharp and clear no matter how extended the range is. The toughness of this scope is also noticeable with its fog-resistant, waterproof, and shockproof construction.

I find it great to use during low-lighting conditions, too, considering the fact that it has great illumination. It is a solid and sturdy scope with easy to use and positive turrets.

It also comes with a scope cap, although its quality is not that great.

Pros
  • Ideal for competition shooting
  • Fog-resistant, waterproof, and shockproof construction
  • Well-illuminated reticle, making it useful during low-lighting conditions
  • Solid and sturdy scope
  • Easy to adjust to fit your particular requirements
Cons
  • Subpar quality scope cap

With all the amazing features integrated into this riflescope, it will surely deliver a huge contribution to your overall experience whether you use it for competition or just for fun/recreation.

Burris 2-7x32mm Ballistic Plex Reticle Riflescope

Our Score 7.8 out of 10
Burris Ballistic Plex Hunting Riflescope, 2.75X-20mm
Burris Ballistic Plex Hunting Riflescope, 2.75X-20mm amazon.com Check price

Designed for shooters who need a working rifle or fighting carbine and use the multi-purpose scout rifle; Finger-adjustable, low-profile turrets create a sleek profile
Forward mounting design allow...

It is a popular choice among law enforcers although you can find civilians who also use this scope. It is appropriate for use on both target practices and those situations wherein you are in need of a reliable defense weapon. The Burris Ballistic Plex also promises great results if you prefer to use it for quick, close-range, and intense shooting.

Apart from its sturdiness, this riflescope also continues to amaze users with its low-mount options as well as its long eye relief. Both these features can prevent you from having to squint the entire day. It is even possible for you to keep track of or locate your target quickly and easily even with your two eyes open.

This promotes speedy movements than your target. It also has a posi-lock feature, which you can use in retaining a high level of accuracy through every round. I also find the stable and tough construction capable of handling the action no matter how rough and hard it gets.

Furthermore, it has a sturdy multi-coated lens, which is beneficial because it is built in a way that it is safe from water, shock, and fog.

However, one downside I noticed is the lack of an illuminated reticle, which I think is useful for law enforcers and for security purposes.

Pros
  • Appropriate for target practices as well as during situations that require defense
  • Ideal for quick, close-range, and intense shooting
  • Promotes speedy movements, allowing you to reach your target as fast as possible
  • Stable and tough construction, making it perfect for rough and tough situations
  • Features a multi-coated lens that is safe from water, shock, and fog
Cons
  • Lacks illumination for the reticle

Overall, this is an amazing M1A and M14 scope that can promise to deliver quick, accurate, and amazing results regardless of the situation where you intend to utilize it.

UTG 2-7X44 30mm Long Eye Relief Scout Scope

Our Score 7.3 out of 10
UTG 2-7X44 11" - 9.5" Long Eye Relief 30mm Scout Scope Glass Reticle
UTG 2-7X44 11" - 9.5" Long Eye Relief 30mm Scout Scope Glass Reticle amazon.com Check price

Eye Relief: 11" - 9.5"
30mm 1 Piece Tube for Maximum Light Transmission
Built on True Strength Platform, Completely Sealed and Nitrogen Filled, Shockproof, Fogproof and Rainproof
6 Mil-dot Tactical...

It is even designed to be rainproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, showcasing its toughness that makes it suitable in all kinds of situations, even the rough and difficult ones. The scope also has a 30-mm single-piece tube capable of showcasing the maximum transmission of light.

I love the 11-inch eye relief provided by this scope as it ensures that you will find it effective when used on any rifle or firearm that is incapable of mounting the optics above action. I am also satisfied with the ability of this scope to handle all kinds of weather as well as lighting conditions.

It is mainly because of the patented reticle illumination, which also features a 36-color and dual-color mode. The emerald-coated lens also promotes maximum transmission of light, which ensures that you can enjoy better clarity of pictures.

With the 6 mil-dot etched glass reticle included in this scope, its performance will greatly improve. It also promotes ease in making parallax adjustments, thanks to the built-in side wheel adjustable turret.

Another nice feature integrated into this scope is the click high-tech illumination memory, which you can use if you want to go back directly to the brightness setting or color you previously used.

One thing that I dislike the most about this scope, though, is its weight because it is quite heavy.

Pros
  • Tough and sturdy since it is built to be rainproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
  • Promotes maximum light transmission
  • Guarantees clear and bright pictures
  • Built with an adjustable turret for ease in making parallax adjustments
  • Features a high-tech illumination memory that records the last settings you used for color and brightness
Cons
  • A bit heavy

Despite its weight, many, including me, are greatly satisfied with the UTG 2-7X44 Scout Scope because it is still easy to use and manage while having a high level of accuracy.

Hi-Lux Optics 2-7×32 Long Eye Relief LER Scout Riflescope

Our Score 6.9 out of 10
Hi-Lux Optics Long Eye Relief 2-7x 32mm Riflescope, Color: Black, Tube Diameter: 1 in, Up to 14% Off w/ Free S&H — 2 models
Hi-Lux Optics Long Eye Relief 2-7x 32mm Riflescope, Color: Black, Tube Diameter: 1 in, Up to 14% Off w/ Free S&H — 2 models opticsplanet.com Check price

Product Info for Hi-Lux Optics Long Eye Relief 2-7x 32mm Riflescope
Create a more comfortable shooting experience while maintaining your razor-sharp accuracy in the field with this Hi-Lux Optics 2-...

I think the long 8 inches to 14 inches eye relief provided by this riflescope is one reason why it can provide users with a full and clear view of their target. It is appropriate for use on scout rifles as well as lever action rifles that have muzzleloaders and top ejection features.

It is very user-friendly, too, considering the fact that it has a good magnification setting. In fact, you can easily hold your rifle in the right position for you to hunt your game and snap it right away once your target appears at a close range all of a sudden. It also has a higher magnification setting designed to handle long-range shots.

Another thing that attracted me to this option for the best scope for Springfield M1A loaded and M14 rifle is that it provides an option in between the fine duplex reticle and the Scout Rifle BDC reticle. I am also delighted with the crisp and positive windage and elevation adjustment promoted by this scope.

One of its downsides, though, is that it is not as good as the other scopes in this article when it comes to long-range hunting.

Pros
  • Long and extended eye relief guaranteed
  • User-friendly, allowing you to use it without hassle
  • Provides a full and clear view of your target
  • Offers a couple of options for the reticle
Cons
  • Not that suitable for long-range hunting

Nicely packaged with clear and easy to understand instructions on proper usage, this amazing scope is most likely going to give you satisfaction because it is not only built to last but also function at its best regardless of the condition and situation.

Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope

Our Score 6.7 out of 10
Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope Similar Products
Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope Similar Products opticsplanet.com Check price

Whether you are hunting whitetail from a treestand or stalking sheep in rugged terrain, the Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope delivers a vivid image so you will bring home your trophy. Legendary...

In fact, it underwent a test to figure out whether it can deliver an incredible performance even when used in situations with the harshest recoil. I am impressed with this riflescope as it makes use of a minimalist reticle, which perfectly works for those who want to enjoy the ease and simple target acquisition.

It is designed in a way that it can prevent thick peripheral lines from getting lost when there is a bright background. It also takes pride in its thin crosshairs that provide the highest amount of precision. I am also happy that I can effortlessly utilize this riflescope because of its lightness.

The lens coating used in this riflescope also offers a favorable advantage because it does not only promote a better light transmission. It also makes sure that the riflescope becomes even more resistant to abrasion. This scope also takes pride in its windage and elevation adjustments as it allows you to enjoy the ultimate solution for a long period of heavy use.

One more amazing feature that this riflescope carries is the twilight max light management technology, which is great because of the twenty additional minutes of shooting light it provides.

This is beneficial because it minimizes glare, promoting an excellent quality of images.

The only issue I have with this is its somewhat lofty price.

Pros
  • Can withstand even the toughest situations and the harshest recoil
  • Promotes ease and simplicity in terms of acquiring targets
  • Lightweight without compromising its toughness
  • Guarantees a good light transmission
  • Can resist abrasion
Cons
  • A bit expensive

I think it can give you your money’s worth, though, as it has the majority of the things that anyone wishes to get from a riflescope.

Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope

Our Score 6.3 out of 10
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope with 3-Inch Eye Relief, 3-9X 40mm
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope with 3-Inch Eye Relief, 3-9X 40mm amazon.com Check price

Quality optics with stunning HD clarity, 100% quality materials used and tested extensively Power x Object Lens- 3-9x 40 millimeter
Low-light riflescope with 3-9x magnification and 40mm objective l...

This riflescope is built to be tough, too. In fact, it has features that make it waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, boosting its flexibility as it means it can handle a wide range of situations. It is also built to handle hunting and game during the wee hours considering the fact that it holds the dusk and dawn riflescope tag.

The lens used here is multicoated, too, which is beneficial as it further enhances the precision and brightness of the riflescope. With this, you will not find it extremely challenging to hunt at dawn. Many also find this riflescope incredible because of its fast and simple sighting without any complication.

The eyepieces integrated here also feature grip zoom rings as well as the power that you can focus and adjust quickly and without any hassle. It is even possible for you to zoom it at your target effortlessly. The windage and altitude of this scope are also easy to adjust, making it all the more valuable in the hunting field.

It is also constructed in a way that it can withstand all the harsh elements that a lot of hunters frequently face during dawn. Furthermore, it is useful no matter what the weather is.

The disadvantage of this scope, though, is that it is quite heavy and large.

Pros
  • Promotes amazing clarity, sharpness, and focus especially in low lighting
  • Tough construction
  • Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
  • Can effectively handle the challenges when hunting at dawn
  • Comes with a multi-coated lens that further maximizes precision and brightness
Cons
  • Quite heavy and large

Overall, I find this riflescope perfect for anyone searching for a reliable and versatile scope that they can specifically use irrespective of the condition, even the harshest ones, without having to shell out a huge sum of money.

M1A/M14 Scope Mount Reviews

1. SPRINGFIELD ARMORY M1A Gen 4 Scope Mount

SPRINGFIELD ARMORY M1A Gen 4 Scope MountIf you are searching for a solid and stable mounting choice for your M1A and M14 rifles then the SPRINGFIELD ARMORY M1A Gen 4 Scope Mount has a better chance of giving you satisfaction. It is just a single-piece construction built using aluminum material but it can withstand a lot of beating and abuse.

This high-quality scope mount for M1A and M14 is lightweight while still remaining as sturdy as possible. Aside from its durability, I am also delighted to announce that it offers a Picatinny-style rail over its receiver as well as user-friendly mounting hardware.

I am greatly satisfied with its wide platform because I noticed how effective it is in supporting both small and large scopes. It is also built in such a way that you can easily mount it. Mounting it is also easy.

I also like the fact that it has everything that you need to set it up, including the mounting hardware as well as detailed instructions on how to install it. It is also capable of holding its zero efficiently. Furthermore, this well-made scope mount comes packaged in a durable case while being equipped with a few spare pins.

The only thing that I am not so delighted about in this scope mount is that it does not fit SOCOM II that well. It is also somewhat expensive.

Pros
  • Easy to use because it is built in just a single piece
  • Aluminum material used, which is lightweight and durable
  • Features user-friendly mounting hardware
  • Boasts of its wide platform that supports small and large scopes
  • Comes with detailed installation instructions
Cons
  • A bit expensive
  • Does not fit the SOCOM II that well

To conclude, this scope mount from SPRINGFIELD makes an incredible choice for anyone who wishes to use a scope, which is suitable for their specific needs, especially in terms of size support.

2. Sadlak Industries M14/M1A Steel Scope Mount

Sadlak Industries M14/M1A Steel Scope MountIf you intend to find a high-quality scope mount for M14 and M1A, which is tough enough to withstand all weather and conditions then this steel-based scope mount from Sadlak Industries will surely fit your needs. It is a fantastic choice considering the fact that it is manufactured while prioritizing extreme durability.

It is hardened in such a way that it can provide you with complete stability. With that, I am sure that you will enjoy its strength. It also prevents the scope from loosening up, thereby ensuring that nothing will negatively affect each of your shots. The strength is further enhanced with the manganese phosphate finish used in it.

It is mainly because this material provides the whole construction with a weatherproofing feature, allowing it to resist water, moisture, and fog. Even if the steel mount is lightweight, it is still well-built. It is strong enough that it can provide you with an amazing platform that can hold a wide range of scopes.

It also works well if you intend to use it for iron sight, thanks to its see-through u-channel and the precise mil-spec Picatinny rail integrated into it. I am also very happy to say that it contains all the fasteners, hex wrenches, mounting hardware, and any other important thing needed for its setup.

It even comes included with detailed setup instructions for further convenience. However, one thing that most users do not approve of in this scope mount is its expensive price.

NHUOC DIEM

Pros
  • Built to withstand all weather and conditions
  • Durable, hardened, and stable construction
  • Weatherproof, making it possible for it to withstand water, moisture, and fug
  • Lightweight while still being well-built
  • Comes complete with all the accessories needed for its final setup
Cons
  • Expensive

You won’t regret paying for the price of this scope mount, though, because it is capable of delivering and fulfilling what it promises to its buyers and even exceeding their expectations as far as performance is concerned.

What Makes a Great M14 or M1A Scope?

A “great” M1A/M14 scope will depend on the intention of the user. Different rifle users have different opinions on what makes a scope great, and it usually depends mainly on what they are using the rifle for.

For instance, if you are thinking of using the rifle for long-distance shooting, installing long-range optics on the M1A or M14 will help a great deal. Without optics, the effective range of the M14 rifle is just a little over 500 yards but when you attach a scope, the rifle’s range will almost double at 875 yards. Long-range scopes are those that have adjustable magnifications of up to 24x.

Now, if you will be using the rifle for speed shooting competitions, the scope does not need that strong of a magnification, up to 9x or 12x will be fine for its purpose. The important thing here is the speed with which the scope can acquire targets.

In addition, the conditions wherein you will be using the rifle should also be taken into consideration. If you will be using it mainly for hunting wild game, then it needs to have top of the line weatherproofing. If water got inside the scope, it will render it nearly useless as you will not be able to get a clear sight picture.

What Magnification do You Need?

The amount of magnification you will need will, of course, depend on the intended use of the rifle. Rifle scopes come in many different sizes, magnifications, and uses. If you will be using it for hunting medium to big-sized game, a medium-range scope with a fixed magnification power of 4x or 6x is accurate up to 300 yards. This scope will allow you to get a clear and steady target when you are hunting for deer, bear, or other large animals.

If you are hunting birds, prairie dogs, and other smaller creatures, then you will need a higher magnification power. In this case, 9x to 12x is ideal. Any higher and your scope will be too overpowered for the task. When you are out hunting, you do not have time to adjust according to windage and bullet-drop, which is why it is ideal to use fixed magnification scopes instead of variable magnification.

Your priority when hunting is to get a quick target picture because your target will not be standing still waiting for you to aim at it. You need to look into your scope and find your target as fast as you can. If the magnification of your scope is too high, you will be panning left and right so much that your prey will be able to escape.

On the other hand, if you will be using your rifle mostly for plinking, you can invest in a much bigger and more powerful scope, especially if you will be using the M1A or M14 as a sniper rifle. In cases like this, you can get a scope with a 50mm objective, and a magnification range of 3-16x or even 3-20x magnification to make full use of the M14’s effective range.

Factors to Consider when Buying a M14 or M1A Scope

When you are shopping for the best optics for M14 or M1A, there are a couple of things that you need to keep an eye out for so you can be sure that you are getting the best that your money can buy.

Magnification

To find out how much magnification you will need for your M14 scope, you need to determine what you will be using it mostly for, and at what range you will be shooting from. If you will be hunting targets within a short range, which is around 150 yards for the M1A or the M14, you do not even need to use a scope. Just the iron sights will be fine for your purposes.

However, if you will be shooting competitively, you are actually aiming for the bull’s eye so you will need a scope to help your accuracy. For this purpose, a magnification of 1-5x will do fine.

Objective Lens

The larger the objective lens, the higher amount of light gets into the scope. This means that you will be getting a clearer and brighter sight picture when you look into the scope. This really helps when you are hunting in low-light conditions as you will need as bright of a sight picture to get a clear shot of your prey.

However, you need to compromise size and weight for increased performance. The bigger the lens, the heavier it is and so does the rest of the scope. This miniscule amount of weight might not seem like much but you will start feeling every gram of weight when you are stalking your prey through your scope.

Lens Coating

The lenses of rifle scopes are always coated by a special film that lets a lot of light into the scope but prevents it from reflecting at the surface. This special coating prevents glare from ruining your sight picture. It also prevents the reflected light from giving away your position to your prey.

The coating also ensures that the water does not make droplets on the surface of the lenses, which is ideal when you are hunting during the dawn or dusk, or when the weather is a bit rainy.

Eye Relief

This detail is especially important if you are using the M1A or M14 as these rifles are notorious for their kickback. The eye relief is the distance from the scope wherein you can still get a clear picture. If this is your first time using a riflescope, you do not place your eye directly on or anywhere near the scope.

It is because that might only trigger you to get injured when the recoil of the gun firing causes the scope to smack you right in the eye socket. Ideally, you need a scope with an eye relief of around four inches or so just to be on the safe side.

Reticle

Also known as the crosshairs, the reticle shows you where the bullet is supposed to hit the target. For beginners, it is highly recommended that they use the basic Duplex, otherwise known as the German No.4 reticle. These crosshairs are sufficient for hunting and non-professional shooting practice.

Another thing that you need to take into consideration regarding the reticle is their focal position. If the reticle is in the first focal plane, it will maintain the same perspective throughout the magnification range This means that as the image gets bigger, the reticle will get bigger to.

This type of reticle is preferred by long range shooters.  If the reticle is in the second focal point, it will remain the same size all throughout the scope’s magnification range.

In addition, if you are a new rifle owner, do keep in mind that you do not shoot long distances while holding the rifle on your shoulder. That is a myth perpetuated by Hollywood. When you are using the maximum zoom range of a long-distance scope, even a slight movement will cause the target image to shake violently.

This means that if you are thinking of buying a high-powered long-distance scope, make sure that you also have a way to stabilize the rifle while you are aiming, like a bipod.

Conclusion

The M1A and the M14 are very reliable and accurate rifles that are truly worthy additions to any firearm lover’s collection. These rifles actually have a rather impressive effective range at almost 500 yards. However, if you pair it with an equally reliable optics, you can extend that effective range by quite a large amount.

Some purists will tell you that you really do not need to use optics on the M1A and the M14 as their iron sights are accurate enough on their own but the truth is the best scope for M1A or M14 rifle is actually there so the user can make full use of their rifles potential.

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