M1a Scout optics ??

[Hank Dodge]

Now that I'm the proud owner of an ultra-tacticool M1A Scout Rifle, I'm wondering just what to do with it. The iron sights are about the best configuration ever put on a rifle. The receiver is built for a GI scope mount assembly if a high power optic is desired. It seems to me that anything you would mount up front on that forward rail would change the balance and alter the handling of an otherwise extremely handy little rifle. What do people mount on that forward rail that works well?

I'm considering removing that rail altogether and just installing a std. style hand guard. I've got a Smith Enterprises mount for the receiver if I want to add a scope at some point. What is the correct way to mount a scope that will allow it to be removed and reinstalled without a loss of zero? It would be nice to be able to easily swap between irons for close targets and say a 10x optic for longer ranges. I'd be interested in what opinions there are for that as well.

I'm thinking that I'll just keep the irons in play for the moment. It sure is a neat platform. Now I really need to put up some more 7.62x51 into the stocks. Anyone got a good source for that?

[sundayarmorer]

In my opinion, the Scout is the most practical m1a out there. I had an aimpoint on one of mine, but later changed to a standard scope using a Smith mount. Your absolutely right in saying that the scout is super handy and well balanced, which is why its not a good idea to use a tacticool scope on it unless its on the lighter side. The best M1a Scout setup Ive fired was one with the scout mount removed and a lightweight burris 3-9x40 tac30 scope.

[Hank Dodge]

Am I wrong in wanting to switch between irons and a scope? I thought I had read somewhere a way to do this easily. Maybe I'm mistaken, I can see where it would be hard if not impossible to maintain zero. A buddy has an AR that mounts a scope on the carry handle with a military mount. It returns amazingly well to point of impact at 100yd targets, never tried that one past that range though. I'd just like the option of engaging out to 100 yards with the irons and 150yds out with something like a 10x scope.

[Omega13device]

With the SEI mount you should be able to use the irons without removing the scope.

I removed the Scout rail on mine as well. I had tried an Aimpoint on there but didn't like the change in balance. The Scout rail only weighs 3 oz so removing it doesn't make a big difference in weight but I took it off anyway.

[zeni]

a possibility

I have the same rifle and same challenge.

I have been told by a gunsmith (who also has the same rifle and challenge) that he mounted a Leupold VX 3 2.5-8x32 handgun scope using some offset rings to give him the additional required eye relief. He loves the setup. The 2.5 magnification is good for short range targets while the higher magnification can be used for longer range shots.

I have tried contacting Leupold about it but I haven't heard back yet. Perhaps you also could contact Leupold. If they get enough inquiries, maybe they will come up with a "ultra-tacticool" scope specially for the M1A Scout.

[Omega13device]

I have tried contacting Leupold about it but I haven't heard back yet. Perhaps you also could contact Leupold. If they get enough inquiries, maybe they will come up with a "ultra-tacticool" scope specially for the M1A Scout.

Do you mean like the Leupold Scout Scope?

[trackerdan]

I purchased the Sadlak mount for mine and have also considered removing the forward rail altogether. You are supposed to be able to access the iron sights with the Sadlak mount installed.

Has anyone put a stock mounted bipod on their Scout yet?