The Springfield Armory M1A SOCOM 16 is one satisfying 308 rifle to shoot.
We have tested and evaluated multiple options, and have arrowed down the 5 best scope for M1A (SOCOM 16) based on reticle capability, size, applications and price.
To save your time:
- HOLOSUN HE508T is the best micro red dot for CQB applications,
- Vortex VIPER PST 2-10X32 GEN 2 for long-range applications
- Vortex RAZOR HD 1-6X Gen 2 is a great hybrid optic for mid-range shooting.
But there are more...
Let's check out what else is there:
5 Best Optics For M1A SOCOM 16 Including Red Dot Sights
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For Ruger Mini 14 fans, please also check out this guide here
CQB Shooting (25 - 75 Yards)
Don't like what you see here? Check out here for more best red dot sights
Mid Range Plinking (75 - 200 Yards)
Long Range Steady Shooting (250 - 600 yards)
What To Look For?
The M1A SOCOM 16 's effective range is up to 1000 yards (3-5 MOA shot group) with good optic magnification and good shooting fundamentals.
Magnification
Image Referenced Gearsofguns
Did you know? As a rule of thumb, every 100 yards increase in the distance, you want your optic magnification to increase by 1X.
For the SOCOM 16, a MAX 6 - 8X magnifications are adequate for most engagement distances.
A low power variable optic like the Vortex VIPER PST, Nightforce ATACR 1-8X, and Vortex Razor HD Gen 2 are great because they have the ability to go from 1X to magnified power with just one optic, so you can use one gun for CQB and distance shooting without having to swap out optics.
Another important feature to have for a variable zoom optic is parallax, if you're not sure if you need it please read here to learn more about parallax adjustment
Keep 3.5 - 4" Eye Relief Distances
4" eye relief distance is the most comfortable for magnified scope users.
The M1A does kick a little bit when a 308 round goes off, so you do want to keep that eye distance from the scope to protect your eye.
Optic Weight
The M1A SOCOM 16 is a decently heavy rifle, and the weight of the optic definitely need to be considered.
A micro style red dot doesn't significantly add perceivable weight to the rifle at all.
However, when mounting an actual scope that weighs 20+ oz will feel different.
Durable Optic Mount
For the guys who want to run red dots, the GG&G Aluminum Scope Mount and the SADLAK Tactical Scope Mount are the two best options.
They let the user mount an optic closer to the eye with decent eye relief distance, and it doesn't interfere with the ejection port.
Add Cheek Riser
It's highly recommended to have a low mount on the M1A, then add cheek riser to the stock.
Please check out on our site: Best Scope Mount For M1A
MOA Dot Size & Reticle
If you're using the M1A with a red dot sight a 1 MOA or 2 MOA dot size is perfect for precision shooting without obscuring the target.
If you're engaging targets further out in the distance, a first focal point reticle is the best because the reticle changes as you adjust the magnification power, so your crosshair zero doesn't change when you zoom in and out.
Wrap Up
For close quarter applications such as home defense, plinking on the range and fast action shooting, a micro-size red dot sight like the Holosun HE508T or Aimpoint Micro will get the job done.
For medium range to long-range shooting, a 1-8X magnification low power variable optic with at least 3 - 4" eye relief distance is a good match for the rifle. The Nightforce ATACR 1-8X first focal plane scope is the best out of all.
I hope you have gotten a lot of value out of this article, go out have fun on the range and be safe!
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