We have tested and evaluated multiple options, and have arrowed down the 5 best scope for M1A Scout or SOCOM 16 based on reticle capability, size, applications and price.
To save your time:
- HOLOSUN HE507C is the best M1A scout squad red dot
- 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 Scout (SOCOM 16)
Disclosure: All products have affiliate links for earning commission to support the website when you purchase
For Ruger Mini 14 fans, please also check out this guide here
CQB Shooting (25 - 75 Yards)
Holosun 507C X2 - Best For CQB
Why Buy Holosun 507 X2 - The Holosun HE507C X2 is by far the best Trijicon RMR alternative for a M1A Scout red dot sight under $400. Same durability and mount footprint as the RMR.
2 + 32 MOA Reticle - Use 32 MOA for fast target acqusition, and 2 MOA for precise aiming
Bigger Buttons - Enlarged adjustment buttons for better reach Upgraded from the previous model.
Side Loading Battery - This eliminates the need to remove the sight for battery swap and re-zeroing. Access the battery from the side tray
Near Infinite Battery life - The Shake Awake technology & solar panel extends the battery life way past 50,000 hours. Motion sensor activates & deactivates the reticle for battery saving, and the Solar fail-safe power kicks in immediately when the battery dies, so the optic will always remain on.
Check out here for more best red dot sights
Mid Range Plinking (75 - 200 Yards)
Vortex Razor HD 1-10X - Best LPVO
Why pick this low power variable optic - The RAZOR HD Gen 3 1-10X 34mm low power variable optics bridges the gap between CQB and long range capability into one super versatile FFP scope. Better than the previous 1-6X model.
Now 10X Magnification - Increased to 10X power to bridge the gap between a mid-range LPVO with a long range precision scope without compromising size
Fast Return To Zero - Capped turrets with indexing ability to return to zero without getting lost
Fast Target Acquisition - 3 inward arrows quickly draws the eye to the illuminated center reticle and get on target fast on 1X
Range Target Fast (New EBR 9C Reticle) - Superimpose the hashmarked ranging subtension lines on the target to immediately estimate the target distance as well as holdover and windage corrections.
Long Range Steady Shooting (250 - 600 yards)
Vortex Viper PST 2-10X32 FFP - Best Overall 30mm Scope
Why Pick The Vortex Viper ? - It's by far the most popular 30mm scope for many long range applications with tactical features that you can't ignore.
Return To Zero - Just like all high-end Vortex scopes, exposed turret (RZR zero stop) will bring you back to your exact zero every time with positive engagement.
First Focal Plane - Reticle subtension stays true for all magnification power for accurate holdover and ranging
Wide Field Of View - Crisp image across all magnification levels with an impressive field of view for quicker target acquisition.
MRAD or MOA - Choose between these two types for your preference
Affordable - Get a great scope with exceptional performance at a fraction of the cost
Vortex Diamondback 4-16X44 FFP - Best Price
Why Pick The Diamondback ? - It's the best value FFP long range scope from Vortex for the M1A. It has steller performance at an unbeatable price + Vortex's life time VIP warranty
See Targets Down Range Clearly - Increased light transmission for a bright image quality during day light and dusk
Low Light Capable - Illuminated EBR4 reticle allows aiming capability during low light condition so you get a bit more shooting time before the sun goes down completely
0.25 MOA / Click - Fine adjustment turret down to 0.25 MOA / click means it's made for long range shooting to fine tune your zero
Lightweight Construction - Made with 6061 T6 durable aluminum body. It's lightweight for the M1A
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, for 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.
Be sure the scope feature parallax adjustment turret to focus the reticle based on your particular eye vision.
Keep 3.5 - 4" Eye Relief Distances
Most scopes have between 3.5 - 4" eye relief distance for a comfortable cheek weld, and it also prevents eye bite.
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 heavy rifle, 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
They provide decent eye relief distances, and don'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
A 1 MOA or 2 MOA dot size is perfect for precision shooting without obscuring the target.
Related Content: Best Scopes For FN SCAR 17s & MK20s SSR
