Red dot optic for a M1A scout

[Balrog]

I want to add a red dot optic to the rail on my M1A scout squad. I will use either an Aimpoint Micro or a CompM4, but would be open to other ideas.

My main question is, what mount to use. It looks like I need a really low mount, almost directly only the rail. I don't want to have to use a cheek piece if at all possible.

What works well on an M1A with no cheek piece?

 

[AK103K]

I think you'll have to ditch the factory rail, and go with something like Ultimaks rail, if you hope to get close. Even then, I dont know if it will get you low enough.

I had one of my M2 Aimpoints on my SOCOM, and it really sat to high, even with a low, Aimpoint ring. Forget about a cheek weld. Maybe a chin weld.

The Aimpoint would be my choice for that rifle, and preferably on a lever ring, but even with a low rail like the Ultimak, its likely still be an issue.

I have Aimpoints on Ultimak rails on a couple of my AK's, and need to use Aimpoints low ring, to get the sight low enough to get a cowitness. Something I doubt you'll ever get, with the M1A.


This was my SOCOM with the M2 mounted on an ARMS lever mount....

 

[1KPerDay]

Another option if you don't mind giving up the rear sight...

I've been running one on an M1 Garand and it's a lot of fun. Crusty old guys yell at me a lot, though.

http://www.hopcousa.com/

http://youtu.be/8uUv4UJJjSo

 

[strambo]

The H1/T1 comes with a low mount, I'd try that first on the factory rail. If it isn't low enough, get the Ultimak.

EDIT: Also, if you are using a modern fighting stance (shoulders square to threat) with a more heads up position, the cheek weld isn't as low.

 

[henschman]

I'd replace the factory scout mount with one from Ultimak, so you can actually get an optic low enough for co-witness, then put an Aimpoint PRO on it in a low 30mm ring. It should lower 1/3 co-witness with the irons, and still allow for some semblance of cheek weld. I wouldn't mess with the micro in that far forward of a mount... the FOV is pretty tiny when you get it that far away from your eye.

 

[jose.velez85]

Did you get the M1A from a box? If not, you missed out. Go to Springfield web site and download the loaded coupons. They have lots of attachments for that rifle. On optics, the sky's the limit.