The M14 rifle and the M1A rifle are both among the list of the most versatile rifles that are ever invented. But just like most of the firearms, they can only do so much on their own, meaning to say, you need to pair them with the best scopes to maximize their use.
With the help of a good and reliable rifle scope, you would be able to use these rifles with the accuracy and precision that you have been long wanting to get.
M14 and M1A are both rifles that are famous when it comes to talking about long-range shootings, competitions, hunting activities, tactical applications, and many more.
These rifles have always been the most popular choices that shooters ever consider buying. And if you are interested in buying the most suitable M1A and M14 riflescope, then continue reading this article.
Here we have a detailed elucidation of the 10 best scopes for M14 and M1A, that you can pair up with your reliable & M1A and M14 rifles, which are discussed along with their features and short descriptions.
Ten Best Scopes for M14 and M1A
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10 Best Scopes for M14 and M1A Reviewed
1.Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope
Leupold’s VX-3i Riflescope is the best scope for your M1A or M14 if you are looking for a riflescope from the brand of Leupold. This specific model scope will surely give you the satisfaction you are expecting from the best scopes.
This scope underwent some tests and proved that it withstand different situations including the ones with the harshest recoil. It is perfect for hunting and many other purposes, especially if you are one of those shooters who want ease, simple, and comfortable target acquisition.
This scope is very light in weight—it just weighs 1.4 pounds—and it has a magnification setting that ranges from 3.5X to 10X.
Leupold VX-3i
3.5-10x50mm Riflescope
- 6061-T6 aircraft quality aluminum
- Premium lens clarity
- Twilight max light management system
- 5,000 impacts on the Punisher
- 100 % waterproof and fog proof
Some of this scope’s best features are the following:
Durability and Aesthetics: This scope is engineered and constructed to have a 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum body that makes it very durable. To prove its physical strength, this scope is tested and guaranteed to last lifetime performance even when used in situations with the harshest recoils.
Also, this scope is constructed to be 100 percent waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-proof. With these properties combined, this scope is truly a must-have. Besides, this scope has a matte black finish that makes it very aesthetic and cool in appearance.
DiamondCoat 2 Lenses: This scope is constructed with high-quality lenses that are made with DiamondCoat 2. With this built for its lenses, this scope offers the maximum level of resistance to abrasion.
Also, it provides maximum light transmission due to these lenses. Undoubtedly you would not have a problem when using it during low-light conditions.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Good light transmission
- Ease of acquiring targets
- Resist abrasion
Cons
- Pricey
2. Vortex’s Optics Crossfire II Scout Riflescope
Vortex’s Optics Crossfire II Scout Riflescope is one of the scopes that are proven to be compatible with M1A and M14, and this one is the best for quality. This scope only weighs 1.35, thus making it very easy to carry anytime for spontaneous shooting activities.
This scope is made perfect for many purposes—some of which are hunting and tactical purposes. This scope does not need much introduction since its features speak for itself.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II
Scout Riflescope
- V-Plex reticle
- Anti reflective lenses
- Finger adjustable turrets
- Shockproof performance
- Perfect for hunting and tactical use
- Ultra forgiving eyebox
Some of this scope’s best features are the following:
Fast Focus Eyepiece: With this scope’s fast-focus eyepiece, you would be able to have an easy and quick focusing for your reticle. This feature is essential when you want to shoot fast.
Fully Multi-coated Lenses with Anti-reflective Properties: This scope is designed and constructed to have fully multi-coated lenses that will surely make you see bright images during all conditions. Also, this scope’s lenses are made to have anti-reflective properties that will ensure that you see clear views of your surroundings.
V-Plex Reticle: The V-Plex type of reticle is one of the most renowned features of this scope—this type of reticle is known to be an all-purpose reticle. With this scope’s type of reticle, you would surely be able to use it for a wide range of hunting applications.
Long Eye Relief: This scope is made to have a long eye relief that is surely beneficial when you are using M1A and M14—these are known to have large amounts of kickbacks. You need not worry about that because this scope an eye relief that extends for up to 9.45 inches.
Pros
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Shockproof, fog proof, and waterproof
- Hunting and Tactical applications
Cons
- Gets unclear occasionally
3. Monstrum’s 3-9x32 Riflescope
Monstrum’s 3-9×32 Riflescope is another scope that you should consider when looking for the best scope for your M1A or M14.
This one is known to be very user-friendly and intuitive. It offers a magnification setting that ranges from 3X to 9X—with this magnification range, the scope will be very reliable even when used beyond a distance of 300 yards.
Another cool thing about this scope is that it has a very aesthetic appearance that makes it look very cool and classy at the same time.
Monstrum
3-9x32 Riflescope
- CR1632A Battery
- Intuitive design
- Nitrogen filled tubes
- Detachable throw lever
- The clear crystal target view
- Red and green color illumination reticle
Some of this scope’s best features are the following:
Five Levels of Brightness: This scope offers five levels of brightness that you can choose from it. With these options, you would be able to see clearly and have improved visibility even when you are using it during low-light situations such as nighttime and cloudy days.
Durability and Reliability: This scope’s body is made up of aircraft-grade aluminum that makes it very durable and sturdy. With this built, this scope will be able to withstand all the harsh and tough situations you might encounter in the wild.
Also, this scope is nitrogen filled which makes it resistant to fog and water—with that said, this scope is made reliable and will be able to endure different uses.
Detachable Throw Lever: This feature of this specific scope makes it very easy to be adjusted when it comes to the magnification setting that it has. You would be able to switch without having to exert a lot of effort from 3X to 9X options.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Intuitively designed
- A fair and accurate estimate of targets
- Water-resistant and fog proof
Cons
- Tilted shapes of colors upon zeroing in
4. Primary Arms’ Classic Series SFP Riflescope
Primary Arms’ Classic Series SFP Riflescope is said to be one of the best scopes that you should consider if you are one of those people who love to join shooting competitions. Due to the reason that it offers ease anytime that you want to make some adjustments, this one is perfect for you.
This scope is also very light in weight that it just weighs 1.63 pounds. Also, this scope offers a wide range of magnification settings—to be exact, it offers 4X to 16X.
Primary Arms Classic Series
SFP Riflescope
- Budget friendly
- 12 brightness settings
- Zero resettable turrets
- Fog and water resistant
- Reliable and durable scope
Some of this scope’s best features are the following:
12 Levels of Brightness: This scope is the perfect choice you might want to consider if you also love to go hunting at night. It offers twelve levels of brightness that make it very reliable even when the night comes. It works just as well at night as it operates during the daytime.
Illuminated Mil-dot Type of Reticle: This scope is also one of the scopes that are reliable when you want to experience ease and comfortability in switching from long-range and short-range views through your scope. This feature is truly one of the most helpful features that any scopes may have.
Durability: This scope is engineered and built to be shock-proof, waterproof, and also fog-proof. With all these properties combined, this scope is made very durable.
So, if you want a scope that will surely last long even when used ruggedly under different harsh conditions, then you might want to consider getting this one.
Pros
- Well illuminated reticle
- Solid and sturdy scope
- Easy to adjust
Cons
- Quality is not great
5. Burris’ 200261 Ballistic Plex Riflescope
Burris’ 200261 Ballistic Plex Riflescope is one of the scopes that you will be able to buy at a lower price but still with very cool features.
If you are on a tight budget, you might want to consider getting this one since this is also one of the best scopes that are proven to be compatible with M1A and M14. This scope is light in weight—it just weighs 368.54 grams.
Burris 200261
Ballistic Plex Riflescope
- High quality optical glass
- Ideal for multi purpose rifles
- Extended eye relief
- Low profile turrets
- Lightweight and compact in size
Some of this scope’s best features are the following:
Durability and Reliability: This scope is constructed with aluminum material—if you have noticed, aluminum is one of the most widely used materials that are utilized in the construction of riflescopes.
Also, this scope is built in a way that it is waterproof, shock-proof, and fog-proof. With those properties combined, you would be able to get a rifle scope that is both durable and reliable in harsh and worst times of shooting.
Multi-coated Lenses: For a maximum light transmission, this scope is made to have multi-coated lenses that are of very high quality and proven reliability that can be used even in situations where there is very little light.
Posi-lock Feature: With this feature, you would be able to ensure your accuracy in shooting all the time. This feature is very helpful since being accurate is one of the most needed skills when doing shooting activities and hunting. This feature proves that this scope is one of the must-haves.
Pros
- Ideal for quick, accurate, and intense shooting
- Stable and Tough build
- Long eye relief
Cons
- Lack of an illuminated reticle
6. UTG’s 2-7X44 Scout Scope
UTG’s 2-7X44 Scout Scope is one of the scopes that are also popular for M1A and M14—this scope, by just inspecting, you will see right away that it has a very strong and reliable built.
This scope needs no more introduction. It has very cool features—you will surely not regret buying this one once you decide to use it as your scope.
UTG
2-7X44 Scout Scope
- High illumination memory
- Precise MOA per click adjustments
- Emerald coating lens
- Long eye relief
- Premium zero resetting and locking turrets
Some of this scope’s best features are the following:
Emerald-coated Lenses: This scope will ensure that you get the maximum light transmission that you need when you are doing your shooting and hunting activities.
With the brightness of the views also comes the clarity that you would be able to enjoy it too. Undoubtedly this scope is made to be very reliable even in situations that are low in light.
High-tech Illumination Memory: This scope’s feature will help you switch back to the previous brightness settings that you chose without exerting much effort. With this feature, you would not be confused as to what brightness option you have previously used.
Long Eye Relief: As mentioned earlier, M14 and M1A are to have large kickbacks. So, the scope you are pairing them must have long eye relief to prevent your eyes and your head from being hurt.
Another advantage that this long eye relief can do you is that you would not have to worry about positioning yourself precisely when shooting. To be said accurate, this scope’s eye relief can reach for up to a length of 11 inches.
Pros
- High-tech illumination
- Adjustable turrets
- Maximum light transmission
Cons
- Quite heavy
7. Hi-Lux Optics’ LER27X32BDC Riflescope
Hi-Lux Optics’ LER27X32BDC Riflescope is one of the most versatile scopes that are on this list—with this scope, you can choose from two reticle type options to use when shooting. With that feature, you would be able to adjust based on the reticle type that you are comfortable with.
Also, this scope is known to be one of the most user-friendly riflescopes that you may find at the markets these days. Besides, this scope offers a magnification setting that ranges from 2X to 7X.
Hi-Lux Optics
LER27X32BDC Riflescope
- Longest eye relief
- Made of aluminum body
- Ensures durability and long lasting life
- Versatile and user friendly scope
Some of this scope’s best features are the following:
Long Eye Relief: This scope might have one of the longest eye reliefs on this list—its eye relief extends for up to 14 inches.
With your M1A and M14 known to be very notorious when it comes to kickbacks, you surely need a scope that will keep your eyes and your head safe from the recoil of those mentioned firearms. So, this feature is significant.
Durability: This scope’s main tube or the body is made from aluminum—as said above aluminum material is one of the most widely-used materials when it comes to building scope.
Due to its proven durability and long-lasting life, this material is known to be one of the things that scopes should be made of it.
Lifetime Warranty: This scope is known to be back with a lifetime warranty that will surely make it a must-have. You would be able to have your scope repaired or replaced when proven that it possesses some defects.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Long and extended eye relief
- Nitrogen gas purged
Cons
- Not suitable for long-range hunting
8. Bushnell’s Banner Dusk & Dawn Riflescope
Bushnell’s Banner Dusk & Dawn Riflescope is one of the best scopes that have a lot of features that prove its quality. This scope is known to be one of the most economical scopes that you will be able to find on this list.
With its low price comes it great features that would surely not make you double think about choosing it as your M1A’s or M14’s partner.
Bushnell Banner
Dusk & Dawn Riflescope
- Enough eye relief
- Multicoated optics offers clear images
- 100 percent quality materials
- Enough light transmission
- Works well in all weather conditions
Some of this scope’s best features are the following:
Multi-coated Lenses: This scope is constructed to have multi-coated lenses that will ensure the clarity and brightness of the images or views that you’re going to see through your scope.
The lenses of this scope also have some dusk and dawn brightness properties, meaning to say, you can use it all of the time without having to worry about low-light situations.
Long Eye Relief: This scope also offers long eye relief when compared to most of the scopes out there. The usual eye relief that ordinary rifle scopes give a range from 3 inches to 4 inches.
This scope offers 6 inches of eye relief that is mainly required, especially when you are using M1A and M14 because they have large kickbacks.
Versatility and Reliability: This scope has properties that make it shock-proof, waterproof, and fog-proof. So, you would be able to use even in the harshest and worst conditions that you might encounter in the field or the wild. You need not worry about its versatility and reliability due to these combined properties.
Pros
- Multi-coated lens
- Weatherproof, shockproof
- Multiple and Illuminated reticle
Cons
- Large and bulky
- Quality control issues
9. Vortex’s Optics Strike Fire II Scope
Vortex’s Optics Strike Fire II Scope is also one of the scopes that you should consider when buying riflescopes for your M14 or M1A. This scope comes from a brand that is well-known to manufacture some of the best scopes that are proven to be of high quality and long-lasting life.
If you look at this scope’s physical appearance, you would be able to tell right away that it possesses features that are cool and amazing.
Vortex Optics
Strike Fire II Scope
- 80,000 battery life
- Offset cantilever mount
- CR2 battery
- O-ring seals ensure water and fog proof performance
- 11 illumination settings
Some of this scope’s best features are the following:
Fully Multi-coated Lenses: This scope is designed to have fully multi-coated lenses that are of high quality and proven reliability in the field. With these, you need not worry about using this scope during low-light situations because it will ensure maximum light transmission.
Unlimited Eye Relief: As mentioned for so many times above, eye relief is needed because it ensures your eyes’ and your head’s safety when shooting using your M14 or M1A—M1A and M14 are known to be very notorious when it comes to kickbacks, so long eye reliefs are needed. Also, with this unlimited eye relief, you would be able to have quick target acquisition.
Durability and Reliability: This scope is known to be very durable despite its very lightweight. It is proven to be of shock-proof performance that can withstand both unexpected impact and recoil.
Also, it built with O-ring sealed and also nitrogen purged—this built is for making sure that it can perform well and be durable at the same time by being waterproof and fog-proof.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to mount
- Easy to zero and holds well
- High durability
- Affordable
Cons
- Not ideal for fast combat
- Low battery lifetime
10. CVLIFE’s 4-16x44 Tactical Riflescope
CVLIFE’s 4-16×44 Tactical Riflescope is another scope that is known for its versatility—this one is known to be of great compatibility for all rifles out there. So, you do not need to worry about its compatibility with your M1A or M14.
This scope has been found out to be ideal for both nearsighted and farsighted users, so if you are one of those, this scope is perfect for you. Also, this scope is designed to have an illuminated reticle that will make sure that you see your targets quickly yet with accuracy and precision.
CVLIFE
4-16x44 Tactical Riflescope
- Perfect for shooting and hunting
- Comes with sunshade
- Made by supreme quality aluminum alloy
- Versatile and compatible with all rifles
- Ensure strength and durability
Some of this scope’s best features are the following:
Durability and Strength: This scope is known for being durable and strong—it is made up of a high-strength aluminum alloy that makes it sturdy and reliable when you are using it on the field.
With its remarkable strength and durability, this one is a good investment—you would never regret your decision once you choose to buy this.
Sunshade: Due to the presence of this feature, you would be able to use this scope in any lighting condition it is in the field or the wild. You can be sure that you can rely on it during wide ranges of brightness or dimness.
Fully Coated Optics: This scope will ensure that you will be able to see images or views of your surroundings with clarity and high contrast. With this feature, you would be able to enjoy seeing through your scope and with brightness.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Clear, bright, and sharp images of a target
- Features a sunshade
- Ideal for shooting and hunting
Cons
- Focus and parallax adjustments are difficult to turn
M1A/M14 Scope Mount Reviewed
1. SPRINGFIELD ARMORY M1A Gen 4 Scope Mount
Are you looking for a stable mount for your M1A and M14 rifles? Then try out the SPRINGFIELD ARMORY M1A Gen 4 Scope Mount. It is a solid mount and gives better satisfaction for you. The construction is made by using aluminum material that can withstand a lot of beating and abuse.
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY M1A
Gen 4 Scope Mount
- Stable and solid mount
- Single piece construction
- Lightweight and sturdy
- User-friendly hardware
- Ideally fits for both small and large scopes
This high-quality mount is very light in weight; however, it is very sturdy. Apart from the durability of this mount, it also provides a Picatinny style rail. Moreover, it is the user-friendly mounting hardware.
As it has a wide platform, it will support both small and large size scopes. It is designed to mount easily with the scope.
If you are a beginner for scope, you don’t have to worry about the installing process. This mount comes with the manual on how to install it. It efficiently holds zero. Moreover, this scope mount comes with a durable case that is equipped with spare pins.
2. Sadlak Industries M14/M1A Steel Scope Mount
If you are plan to get a high quality mount for your M14 and M1A rifles, then the Sadlak Industries M14/M1A Steel Scope Mount is the ideal choice. It is designed to withstand all weather conditions. It is a better choice considering that it is made while giving priority to extreme life. It provides complete stability for your rifle.
Sadlak Industries
M14/M1A Steel Scope Mount
- Weatherproofing construction
- Manganese phosphate finish
- Mil-spec Picatinny rail
- Comes with fasteners, hex wrenches
It helps to protect your scope from loosening up, which ensures nothing will affect your shots. The notable feature of this scope mount is its manganese phosphate finishing, which is the strength of this mount.
The whole construction of this scope mount comes with a weatherproofing feature that allows it to resist moisture, fog, and water. Even though this mount is steel, it is light in weight and well built.
As it has a strong enough platform, it will hold a wide range of scopes. It works well with iron sight, thanks to its precise mil-spec Picatinny rail. Furthermore, it has hex wrenches, fasteners, and mounting hardware.
Factors To Consider Before Buying a Scope For Your M1A & M14
Magnification
The magnification of your scope is one of the most important things you should consider. Let us say you are more of the type that likes to shoot or hunt for just short ranges or short distances.
For that, you should acquire a scope that does not have a broad range of magnification (1X to 4X). But if you are the type that does like to do long-range shooting and hunting, then you must choose a scope that has a broad range of magnification like 6X to 24X.
Magnification is one of the most important things that you should consider since your accuracy, precision, and many other things depend on it.
Optics
The optics of your scope is also one of the most significant factors that you have to consider. Without a very high quality of lenses, you would not be able to see clearly through the lenses of your scope.
Thus, you would be having some difficulties in being precise and accurate when shooting. Also, the optics of your riflescope is the main ones responsible for transmitting light all the time. Without a very high quality of it, you would not be able to see through your scope come night time.
A fully multi-coated optics with anti-reflective properties are advisable. But some lenses are of high quality. Some examples are emerald-coated optics and multi-coated optics.
Durability: Materials and Environmental Resistance
The materials used in constructing your scope are the ones that will give it durability and reliability. To have the best quality scope, you should not settle for substandard materials. If you want long-lasting equipment that can perform well in any conditions, then invest in one that comes with a high-quality built.
Usually, materials used for riflescopes are mentioned in the construction segment so you would be able to check it before buying. Be wise in choosing a scope because you are going to use it ruggedly in the field.
Also, you will need a riflescope that will surely be able to withstand different environmental conditions. There will be times when you will force to shoot even under heavy rains and the like, so be sure to get a scope that can withstand the worst conditions.
Price
Nowadays, people always doubt the quality of scopes that are lower in price. But to tell you honestly, some scopes are made affordable without having to lower the quality.
Well, that is one of the good things about technology—it improves things. So, you need not doubt why some of the things are not as expensive as the others.
Also, some brands are proven to manufacture scopes that are of affordable prices but of very high quality. If you want to be sure about getting a good scope, then you might look for those brands.
Eye Relief
One of the most renowned characteristics of M14 and M1A is that they are very notorious when it comes to kickbacks.
Considering that, you might want to get a scope that will ensure your eyes’ and head’s safety when recoil hits hard. This is one of the essential features you should consider before buying a riflescope for your M14 and M1A.
How to choose a scope for M1A and M14 Rifles?
Finding a good scope for M1A & M14 rifles is however not easy, and it’s hard to choose a scope. So that here we have another important consideration that will help you make an even better choice.
Reticle
It’s one of the important considerations when looking for scope. The reticle is also known as crosshairs, and their size and designs play a vital role in making your scope on a point. Always make sure that your crosshairs should not be over thin or thick.
This reticle shows you where the bullet is supposed to hit the target. The German No.4 reticle and the basic duplex are ideal reticles for beginners.
If you are a long-range shooter, then it’s recommended to choose the first focal plane scopes. It will maintain the same perspective anyhow the setting of the magnification.
Lens Coating
The lenses of the rifle scopes are always fully coated by a special thin film. That helps to reduce the glare from the sun & surrounding environment, which could impede your vision and prevent scratching. Thus it also improves the quality of the images.
It also helps by preventing the water doesn’t make droplets on the surface of the lenses. This lens coating is more useful when you are hunting during rainy conditions.
Ease of use
Always select a scope that is completely easy to use. If you are a beginner, then it is wise to choose a scope that can be easily calibrated and zeroed. Also, check that the scope is easy to mount on a rifle. Thus it helps to save your time and keeps you hassle-free.
Turrets
Turrets are an important factor to consider, and they are a significant component of the rifle scope. The sole purpose of the turrets is to make the necessary adjustments to zero an optic. Basic turret adjustments are referred to as windage and elevation.
Windage- left and right adjustments; Elevation- up and down adjustments; and the third turret is generally known as parallax adjustments.
What Magnification Do You Need?
The amount of magnification that you need will depend on the intended use of the rifle. Riflescopes are available in various sizes, magnifications, and uses. One of the major reasons to have scope is to get your accurate targets to appear larger to narrow down your point of impact.
As mentioned above, choosing a scope is all about your personnel activities or practices. If you are hunting prairie dogs, birds, rabbits, pheasants, geese or ducks, or any other small creatures, you will need a higher magnification scope. It’s better to prefer the scope with a magnification range of 9x-12x.
Nobody likes to waste their time adjusting to windage, elevation, and bullet drop. That is why it is highly recommended to prefer the scopes with fixed magnification instead of variable magnification.
If you are hunting big-sized game animals like bears, deer, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and peccaries, it’s ideal to choose a long-range scope with a fixed magnification range of 4x, 6x, or 10x. Thus it helps you to get clear and precise targets up to 350+ yards.
It’s wise to choose a medium-range scope that has a magnification power of 6-9x, and it allows you to get accurate targets up to 150-350 yards. This range is comfortable for many of the shooters. It helps you to get a clean kill when you are far enough from your targets.
Takeaway
With a lot of great scopes that are available at the online markets and even in physical stores, you might be having some difficulties in choosing. But worry not because your choices are narrow down due to this list.
The above-listed factors are some of the primary things that you might want to consider when you are choosing scopes for your M1A and M14. The scopes that are listed above are proven to be reliable and durable when used ruggedly in different conditions—including the toughest and the harshest ones.
One good advice to consider is that you need to pick the riflescope that you are going to be comfortable with when using it—you need not a scope that will make you feel like it is too complicated for you.
There is no problem with using a simple one when you feel comfortable with it because that is where you are best at & that is where you will be able to unleash your shooting potentials. So, always consider your comfortability before finally deciding to choose the best scope for your M14 and M1A.