Top 4 Scopes For Your M1A Rifle – Complete Guide For 2022
The M1A rifle has undoubtedly got quite popular despite its high price tags. Its continuously being improved to increase overall handling and accuracy.
However, the M1A rifle has inherent qualities that make it a top choice for niche shooters and the general public at large.
These qualities include the following:
- Magazine feed
- Faster than most semi-automatics
- Highly effective flash suppressor
- Sure grip groves and a rail for a bipod included in the forend
- National match front blade sight
Although the M1A rifle comes ready to go, it is designed to ensure that you get sufficient wiggle room for customization.
You may have been wondering why the price is set too high, but this is because it has the characteristics that every person is looking for in a rifle.
Now, you can’t know what a rifle will give unless you put it to the test, right?
In this informative article, I will enlighten you about this sleek machine and what it can handle. We will break it into the different sections to help you get the full grasp of the M1A rifle capabilities.
So, pay attention!
Going the distance: Increasing Your Shooting Range
In the right hands, you can get an accurate shot of up to 200 yards at an MOA of less than 1, without making any adjustments. At 250 yards however, the velocity starts to decrease and the bullet drop increases without arduous training of course.
When you reach 300 yards, the bullet drop will be at 8 inches. How can you overcome this limitation becomes the question of interest.
Start by mounting an M1A scope on your next trip to the shooting range to get better performance. Start by checking the best M1A scope mounts to ensure you get one that will give you better results.
With the right scope mount, you will certainly be on your way to the pro rankings. However, let’s discuss briefly what you ought to know about going the distance.
1. How far will your bullet travel? A quick guide
An out-of-the-box M1A rifle has a barrel length of between 16-22 inches. To get the average range for our guide, we will use a median with 19 inches.
Take away a few yards from the above standards if your barrel is shorter, and add a few yards if your barrel is longer. Equally, understand that other factors including aftermarket parts and ammo might also affect the above numbers.
However, regardless of what you do, you will not reach 500 yards without the use of good-quality M1A scopes. When it comes to choosing an M1A scope there are a lot of features you need to consider to ensure you pick the one that suits you.
2. Magnification
You have to admit, there is a sort of thrill that comes with using the .308 caliber. Yes these bullets can reach your dream distances, but you will need more magnification for it to happen.
What is magnification, and what does it entail?
This is a question that most people don’t have answers to. However, we are going to give it a much more practical approach so that you get a better understanding.
Below is a simple breakdown of magnification and what it entails.
Long-range (350 yards and beyond)
Shooting long range won’t be something that you get on your first try.
You need lots of practice to chase a target at 800 yards and beyond.
To achieve these dreams of shooting 800 yards to 1000 yards, you will need 10x power and higher.
Medium range (150-350 yards)
Most shooters find this range quite comfortable. A clean kill is possible at this range which makes it more practical for most shooters.
There is equally no holdover and windage which makes this range simple for most users. At this range 6-9x power is just adequate.
Close range ( -150 yards)
You need to understand that at less than 150 yards, nothing stands a chance against the M1A rifle.
For this range, you will need a 1-5x power because it gives you the wiggle room to get close enough to your target without blurring your vision.
4 Best scopes for your M1A
Scope Image | Scope | Price |
|---|---|---|
 | Burris 200261 Ballistic Plex 2-7x32mm | |
 | Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18x44mm | |
 | UTG 3-12x44 30mm Compact AO Scope | |
 | Athlon Optics Riflescope 6-24x50mm |
Now let’s get down to business with the
TOP 4 Scopes List
1. Burris 200261 Ballistic Plex 2-7x32mm
This MIA scope offers you low mounting options, durability, and long eye relief. You won’t find yourself squinting all day when you use this scope and you get the capability of tracking targets with both your eyes open.
The Burris 200261 Ballistic Plex 2-7x32mm has multi-coated lenses that keep the device safe from water, fog and shock.
What is missing from this scope is the illumination enhanced reticle which is simply invaluable to law and security enforcement.
It features steel on steel adjustment which makes audible clicks which is crucial for scout shooting.
The steel clicks ensure that you don’t have to worry about the settings and you can find it easier to move with confidence.
Specs:
Summary
This scope helps you shoot quickly without losing accuracy which makes it a top choice. The price might be just above your price range, but it is worth every penny you spend.
PROS
CONS
2. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18x44mm
With the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18x44mm, you get a magnification level of between 6-18x which ensures that you can get both close and long-range shots. The magnification level is integrated with a balanced 44mm objective lens.
Using the adjustable objective lens, you can modify your parallax and even eliminate it. Focusing images at long range is relatively simple since the multi-coated lens gives you a high contrast view.
You won’t get any eye bruises due to recoil thanks to the long eye relief and ultra-forgiving eye box.
This scope is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof due to the single tube aircraft-grade aluminum design.
You also get great elevation turrets and finger adjustment windage to increase your accuracy both short-range and long-range.
Specs:
Summary
Since it used a BDC reticule, this riflescope is perfect for hunters. It is ideal during windy conditions and when shooting at targets placed at a different elevation.
PROS
CONS
3. UTG 3-12×44 30mm Compact AO Scope
The UTG 3-12x44 30mm Compact AO Scope makes your shooting more accurate due to zero resetting and zero locking target turrets. Once you set it, it locks into place and gives you the chance to focus more on the target.
It features illumination enhancing reticle which is a must-have for many target shooters and hunters. It has 36 colors for every scenario that you might find yourself in which is just incredible.
Due to its high tech features and luminous addition, the UTG 3-12x44 30mm Compact AO Scope is massive when compared to other scopes.
The extra weight testament to its durability and readability. It’s a model that once you get used to, you can’t let go.
Specs:
Summary
The UTG 3-12x44 30mm Compact AO Scope is designed to ensure that you catch targets faster and accurately. All situations and environments are made easy to handle with this riflescope.
PROS
CONS
4. Athlon Optics Argos BTR Riflescope 6-24x50mm
This riflescope features aircraft-grade aluminum construction which makes it water-proof, shock-proof, and fog-proof. It can also withstand 1000G recoil about 1000 times which is pretty incredible if you ask me.
It is a valuable investment that enhances your shooting skills greatly.
You can zoom in on targets at 1000 yards and take accurate shots due to the 6x-24x zooming capacity.
This scope is considered as a great companion to most hunters due to this feature.
Now, the icing on the cake is the illuminated reticule that lets you shoot effortlessly in low-light conditions. If you pair it with elevation adjustment and excellent windage, you can get incredible shots at long ranges.
Good for as top .308 scope
Specs:
Summary
It only has 3.3 inches eye relief which seems insufficient because this is a long-range scope. If you can overlook this aspect however, then this model is just perfect for you.
PROS
CONS
Conclusion
The riflescope that you need is unique to your needs and what you want to achieve. Ensure that you look at customer reviews to determine which will work best for you. Understand that a riflescope is an investment and you will need to consider several factors before making any purchases.
Other Scopes
For other rifle and scope types check:
1. Best Long Range Rifle Scopes