Hey there, fellow hunters and night vision enthusiasts! Joel Mccartan here, back with another gear roundup to help you squeeze every ounce of performance out of your trusty M14 or M1A. Let me tell you, nothing beats the feeling of nailing that perfect long-range shot as the sun dips below the horizon. But to do that consistently, you need glass that’s up to the task.
I’ve spent countless hours in the field putting scopes through their paces, and let me tell you – the options for our beloved M14 platform have never been better. So grab a cold one, kick back, and let’s dive into my picks for the absolute best scopes to pair with your M14 or M1A in 2024.
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP
Kicking things off with a bang, we’ve got the Vortex Viper PST Gen II. This bad boy is like the Swiss Army knife of rifle scopes – it does everything, and it does it well.
What I love:
– Crystal clear glass that’ll have you picking out prairie dogs at 600 yards
– First focal plane reticle that’s a game-changer for long-range work
– Built like a tank – I’ve dropped mine more times than I care to admit, and it keeps on ticking
The 5-25x magnification range gives you serious flexibility, from close-in brush hunting to reaching way out there. And let me tell you, that 50mm objective lens drinks in light like nothing else. I’ve made ethical shots well into last light that I wouldn’t have dreamed of with lesser glass.
Now, it’s not the cheapest option out there. But in my book, you get what you pay for. If you’re serious about maximizing your M14’s potential, this is the scope to beat.
Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm
Next up, we’ve got a classic from one of the most trusted names in the business. The Leupold VX-3i is like that old hunting buddy who never lets you down.
What sets it apart:
– Legendary Leupold clarity and light transmission
– Twilight Max Light Management System extends your shooting day
– Compact and lightweight – your shoulder will thank you after a long day in the field
I’ve got a VX-3i on my deer rifle, and it’s served me well for years. The 3.5-10x magnification hits a real sweet spot for most hunting situations. While it doesn’t have the long-range chops of some others on this list, for general purpose use, it’s hard to beat.
Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35
Now here’s an interesting one. The ACOG might not be the first scope that comes to mind for civilian M14 use, but hear me out.
Why it’s a contender:
– Virtually indestructible – if you’re rough on gear, this is your scope
– Battery-free illumination that’s always ready
– Lightning-fast target acquisition
I had the chance to run an ACOG-equipped M14 in a 3-gun match last year, and let me tell you – it was a revelation. For faster-paced shooting out to about 300 yards, this thing is an absolute beast. The fixed 3.5x magnification takes some getting used to, but the speed more than makes up for it.
Primary Arms SLx 4-14x44mm FFP
Here’s one for the budget-minded shooters out there. Primary Arms has been killing it lately with their optics, and this SLx scope is no exception.
What you get:
– First focal plane reticle at a fraction of the usual cost
– ACSS reticle system that’s intuitive and effective
– Solid build quality that punches above its price point
I recommended one of these to my buddy who was just getting into precision shooting. He was skeptical at first, but now? He’s ringing steel at 800 yards and grinning ear to ear. For the price, it’s tough to beat.
Burris Scout 2-7x32mm
Switching gears a bit, let’s talk scout scopes. If you’re running a forward-mounted optic on your M1A Scout Squad, the Burris Scout is purpose-built for the job.
Why it shines:
– Long eye relief perfect for scout-style mounting
– Compact and lightweight
– Clear glass and robust construction
I love how this setup maintains the quick-handling characteristics of the M1A while adding just enough magnification to stretch its legs. For hunters who like to stay mobile, this is a killer combo.
Athlon Ares BTR Gen2 4.5-27×50
Here’s an optic that’s been turning heads lately. Athlon might not have the name recognition of some others, but they’re putting out some serious quality.
Standout features:
– Massive magnification range for ultimate versatility
– Top-tier glass clarity
– Precise and positive turret adjustments
I got to play with one of these at the range recently, and color me impressed. The optical quality rivals scopes costing twice as much. If you’re looking to really wring out the accuracy potential of your M14, give this one a serious look.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Scope
Another excellent option for the scout scope crowd. Vortex has a well-earned reputation for quality, and the Crossfire II Scout lives up to the hype.
What I dig:
– Generous eye relief
– Rugged construction
– Vortex’s killer lifetime warranty
This is a great “do-it-all” optic for your M1A. From dense woods to open fields, it’s got you covered. And if something does go wrong? Vortex will make it right, no questions asked.
Nightforce NXS 5.5-22×50
Now we’re getting into the heavy-hitting precision glass. Nightforce scopes are the choice of many top-tier competitive shooters, and for good reason.
Why it’s a beast:
– Unparalleled clarity and resolution
– Rock-solid tracking for long-range work
– Built to withstand serious abuse
I had the chance to shoot a Nightforce-equipped M14 at a 1000-yard match last year. The precision and confidence it inspired were on another level. If you’re looking to really push the limits of what the M14 platform can do, this is the glass to do it with.
SWFA SS 10×42 Tactical
Here’s an interesting fixed-power option that’s gained a cult following among precision shooters. The SWFA Super Sniper might not be a household name, but it’s a serious performer.
What sets it apart:
– Incredibly clear fixed 10x magnification
– Simple, robust design with minimal moving parts
– Excellent value for money
I was skeptical of fixed-power scopes at first, but this one made me a believer. For pure long-range precision work, it’s hard to beat. And the simplicity means there’s less to go wrong when you’re out in the field.
Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20 Scout
Rounding out our list, we’ve got another scout scope option that’s perfect for those who prefer a more traditional look on their M1A.
Why it works:
– Compact and lightweight
– Classic styling that complements the M14’s lines
– Leupold’s renowned optical quality
This is my go-to recommendation for hunters who want to maintain that classic battle rifle aesthetic while adding just a touch of magnification. It’s a joy to shoot and won’t weigh you down on long stalks.
Wrapping Up
There you have it, folks – my top 10 scope picks for the M14 and M1A in 2024. Whether you’re a long-range precision junkie or a run-and-gun hunter, there’s an option here to take your shooting to the next level.
Remember, the best scope is the one that fits your specific needs and shooting style. Don’t be afraid to try a few different options to see what works best for you. And most importantly – get out there and practice! All the fancy glass in the world won’t make up for good old-fashioned trigger time.
Until next time, keep your powder dry and your lenses clean. This is Joel Mccartan, signing off!