The M1A Scout Squad is a powerful, versatile rifle deserving of a high-quality red dot sight. The ideal optic should complement the Scout Squad's forward rail mount, offer quick target acquisition at short to medium ranges, and withstand the recoil of this potent rifle. Look for a balance of ruggedness and clarity when choosing.
Top 5 Best Red Dot For M1A Scout Squad
Trijicon ACOG
For the M1A Scout Squad lover looking to extend their reach and versatility, the Trijicon ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) is a true game-changer. Here's why this magnified optic might be the perfect upgrade for your Scout Squad, along with some insights from my own experience and what other shooters are saying online.
Specs and Long-Range Love:
Fixed Magnification Options: ACOGs come in various magnification options, from 3x to 6x. I opted for the 4x, finding it the perfect balance between medium-range magnification and maintaining a good field of view for quick target acquisition.
BDC Reticle (Optional): Some ACOG models come with a Bullet Drop Compensator (BDC) reticle specifically calibrated for the M1A Scout Squad and .308 ammo. This allows for accurate holds at various distances without needing to adjust for bullet drop as much.
Rugged Construction: Trijicon builds optics for professionals, and the ACOG is no exception. It's built to take the abuse often associated with scout rifles.
Tritium Illumination (Optional): Some ACOG models boast tritium illumination, keeping the reticle visible in daylight conditions without needing batteries. Huge advantage for low-light situations and quick target engagement.
Taking the Scout Squad Further:
Extended Effective Range: The magnification of the ACOG allows you to reach out further with your M1A Scout Squad. This opens doors for longer-range target shooting and even some tactical applications.
Improved Accuracy: The magnified sight picture allows for more precise shot placement, especially at extended distances.
Always On (Almost): Trijicon ACOG models with tritium illumination ensure the reticle is always visible in daylight conditions, no need to fumble with batteries in critical moments.
A Few Considerations:
Bulk and Weight: The ACOG adds a significant amount of bulk and weight to the M1A Scout Squad compared to iron sights. This can affect the rifle's handling characteristics, making it a bit less nimble.
Price Point: Trijicon ACOGs are on the higher end of the optic spectrum.
Limited Close-Quarters Capability: Due to the magnification, target acquisition at close quarters can be slower compared to red dot sights.
Online Buzz:
Shooters online rave about the ACOG's ruggedness, the clarity of the sight picture, and the extended range it allows for various rifles. Here's a typical comment I found: "The Trijicon ACOG is the gold standard for scout rifle optics. It's tough, clear, and lets you reach out and touch targets at distance."
The Verdict:
The Trijicon ACOG isn't for everyone, especially if you prioritize a lightweight, close-quarters capable setup for your M1A Scout Squad. But for shooters who want to unlock the long-range potential of their Scout Squad and value a bombproof optic with clear tritium illumination, the ACOG is a fantastic option. Just remember the added weight and cost, and that close-quarters shooting might require some adaptation due to the magnification.
The CompM4 is a proven workhorse known for its near-indestructible construction. Its forged aluminum housing can handle the bumps, drops, and recoil of the M1A with ease. It's a reliable companion for any shooting situation.
Specs and Features:
Available in various reticle options (I went with the 2 MOA dot for a balance of speed and precision)
10 brightness settings – caters to various lighting conditions, from low-light to bright sunshine
Waterproof submersible (up to 130 feet) – built to handle any weather
Runs on a single AA battery – readily available and offers extended battery life
Standard mount – compatible with most M1A Scout Squad mounting platforms (check for lower 1/3 co-witnessing compatibility)
Why It Makes My M1A Shine:
All-Weather Performer: The waterproof construction gives me peace of mind knowing the sight can handle rain, snow, or even accidental dunks during field use.
Long Battery Life: The AA battery offers a significant lifespan, perfect for extended shooting sessions without worrying about a dead sight.
Quick and Accurate: The red dot reticle allows for fast target acquisition at various ranges, especially helpful for the M1A's versatility.
A Couple Considerations:
Night Vision Compatibility: The CompM4 itself isn't night vision compatible, though night vision adapters are available.
Mounting Options: Finding the right lower 1/3 co-witnessing mount for the M1A Scout Squad might require some research.
Price Tag: Aimpoint optics are known for their premium quality, and the CompM4 is no exception.
My Long-Range Adventures:
The Aimpoint CompM4 has transformed the way I use my M1A Scout Squad. Target acquisition at distance is significantly faster, and the sight's durability gives me confidence in any environment. It's a fantastic upgrade for this versatile rifle.
Online Chatter:
Online forums are buzzing with discussions about the Aimpoint CompM4. Users rave about its bomb-proof build quality, long battery life, and overall reliability. The price and potential need for specific mounts are common talking points, but for many, the performance and peace of mind outweigh these considerations.
If you're looking for a rugged and reliable red dot sight to enhance your M1A Scout Squad's capabilities, the Aimpoint CompM4 is an excellent choice. It delivers exceptional performance, proven durability, and a clear aiming advantage for your long-range adventures. Be prepared to invest, but for serious shooters, the CompM4 is a worthy upgrade.
The M1A Scout Squad is a fantastic rifle, but the forward scout rail placement can make traditional optics a bit awkward. Enter the Vortex StrikeFire II red dot sight. This little powerhouse has transformed my Scout Squad into a fast-handling and accurate all-around rifle. Here's why the StrikeFire II is the perfect partner for my M1A:
Specs:
30mm tube - Offers a good balance of sight picture size and overall footprint.
Unlimited eye relief - No need for perfect eye placement behind the sight.
1x magnification - Maintains the Scout Squad's quick handling characteristics.
4 MOA red dot - Ideal balance between speed and precision for the Scout Squad's intended use.
Multiple brightness settings - Adjusts for various lighting conditions.
Best Features:
The unlimited eye relief is a game-changer for the forward scout rail placement. I can acquire the red dot quickly and easily from any shooting position. The 4 MOA dot is a great size for the Scout Squad - big enough for fast close-to-medium range shooting but still precise enough for accurate target engagement.
Advantages:
Perfect for the scout rail - The unlimited eye relief makes it ideal for the forward scout rail placement.
Faster sight picture acquisition - The red dot allows for much quicker target acquisition compared to iron sights.
Increased accuracy - Focusing on the red dot helps with shot placement, especially at distance.
Lightweight and maneuverable - Doesn't add excessive bulk, keeping the Scout Squad's lightweight handling.
Disadvantages:
Limited reticle option - Only a single 4 MOA red dot reticle available.
Some users report the mount being too high - May require an additional lower 1/3 co-witness mount for optimal cheek weld.
My Experience:
Mounting the StrikeFire II required some tinkering as the stock mount sits a bit high. However, with a lower 1/3 co-witness mount, it sits perfectly. Zeroing was a breeze, and it's held zero flawlessly since. The 4 MOA dot is clear and bright, and the unlimited eye relief makes target acquisition incredibly fast. The Scout Squad feels much more versatile and capable with the StrikeFire II.
What Others Are Saying:
Online reviews are mixed for the StrikeFire II on the M1A Scout Squad. People who appreciate the unlimited eye relief and the lightweight design love it. However, some users found the stock mount to be too high and wished for more reticle options. Overall, those who addressed the mount height seem to be happy with the StrikeFire II's performance on the Scout Squad.
Overall, the Vortex StrikeFire II can be a fantastic red dot sight for the M1A Scout Squad, especially if you address the potential mount height issue. The unlimited eye relief and the 4 MOA red dot make it a great choice for faster target acquisition and improved accuracy on this versatile rifle. While the reticle options are limited, the StrikeFire II offers excellent value and performance for the Scout Squad setup.
My M1A Scout Squad is a fantastic rifle – lightweight, maneuverable, and perfect for hitting targets at distance. But the iron sights, while functional, left me wanting a bit more precision and speed when it came to target acquisition, especially in low light. Enter the Holosun HS510C red dot sight. It's been the missing piece of the puzzle, transforming my Scout Squad into a truly versatile tactical rifle.
Specs and Features:
Lightweight and compact design - ideal for mounting on the Scout Squad rail without throwing off balance.
Multi-reticle system (dot, circle dot, or both) - choose the aiming point that best suits your shooting style and situation.
65 MOA MOA circle with 2 MOA red dot - offers a balance between fast acquisition and precise aiming.
12 brightness settings - caters to any lighting condition, including night vision compatibility.
Solar power with battery backup - never get caught with a dead sight (batteries still recommended as a backup).
Why It's Ideal for the Scout Squad:
The HS510C's size is perfect for the Scout Squad. It sits low on the rail, maintaining the rifle's balance and handling characteristics. The multi-reticle system is a game-changer.
The large circle allows for lightning-fast target acquisition in close quarters, while the 2 MOA dot in the center provides pinpoint accuracy at distance. With 12 brightness settings, I can adjust on the fly for any lighting situation.
The solar power with battery backup is a brilliant feature – no more scrambling for batteries when the red dot decides to dim at the most inopportune moment.
A Few Considerations:
While the multi-reticle system is a plus, some users might find the circle dot a bit large for super precise long-range shooting. Additionally, the footprint of the HS510C is slightly larger than some micro red dots.
Scout Squad 2.0:
Since adding the HS510C, my M1A Scout Squad has become even more enjoyable to shoot. The red dot allows for significantly faster target acquisition, especially in low-light conditions. The ability to switch between the circle dot and the 2 MOA dot offers versatility for different shooting scenarios.
The Scout Squad feels more balanced than I expected with the red dot mounted, and the solar power gives me peace of mind knowing I'll always have a usable sight.
Online Buzz:
The Holosun HS510C is a popular choice for AR owners due to its versatility and durability. Online forums are filled with positive reviews praising its multi-reticle system, solar power option, and clear red dot. A few comments mention the circle dot being a bit large for some users and the sight footprint being slightly bigger than some micro red dots, but most users agree it's a great value for the features offered.
The Final Scout:
The Holosun HS510C has become an essential part of my M1A Scout Squad setup. It's a compact, versatile red dot sight that enhances the rifle's capabilities without sacrificing handling or portability.
If you're looking for a red dot sight to elevate your Scout Squad's performance and make it a more capable tactical rifle, the HS510C is definitely worth a serious look. It's a feature-packed optic at a competitive price point, making it a great choice for M1A Scout Squad owners.
My M1A Scout Squad is a powerhouse. A legendary rifle built for long-range precision. But let's be honest, the stock iron sights leave something to be desired for quick target acquisition, especially in close quarters. Enter the SIG Sauer Romeo4H red dot sight.
This optic is a match made in heaven for my Scout Squad, offering the perfect blend of precision and speed for any shooting situation.