The Best M1A Scope Mount for Your Rifle: 6 Top-Rated Picks

It is no secret that the Springfield Armory M1A rifles are a crowd favorite among shooters. 

These quality semi-automatic rifles styled after the U.S. M14 are one of the most versatile, accurate, and precise rifles out there.

If you want something more powerful than a .223, the Springfield Armory MIA is the perfect choice for you.

However, it isn’t easy to mount a scope on to M1A the same way you can mount one on an AR15.

If you want to mount a scope onto an M1A, you will need a rifle scope mount, and here, we round up our picks for the BEST M1A scope mounts.

Best Affordable

UTG New Gen 4-Point Locking Deluxe M14/M1A Scope Mount

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Best Overall

Springfield MA4GENAM M1A 1-Pc Scope Mount

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For Beginners

M1Surplus Scope Mount Rail

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6 Best M1A Scope Mounts – Full Reviews

TAKE NOTE: For each product, we included a quick review from certified buyers to provide you with more insight into what you can expect from the products.

1. Springfield MA4GENAM M1A 1-Pc Scope Mount

BEST OVERALL MOUNT

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Specifications:

• Manufacturer: Springfield Armory
• Weight: 1.15 lbs
• Dimensions: ‎24.13 x 16.51 x 5.33 cm

This scope mount is made by Springfield Armory, the very company that makes the M1A.

As such, it comes as no surprise that this would be our top overall pick for the best M1A scope mount.

It has:

• Durable aluminum construction
• Lightweight
• Can co-witness with iron sights
• Comes with Picatinny rail mounting

As it is a 4th generation model, many improvements have been made along the way since the previous models. 

Made of a single solid piece of tough but light aluminum material, this scope can survive harsh and bumpy terrains without weighing your rifle down.

It allows for secure and easy mounting thanks to its Picatinny-style rail, which also comes with 10 locking slots for connecting scope rings. 

This is also extremely flexible and can accommodate both large and compact outfits. 

Something unique about this is that its rails are split into two ends. While this does save weight, it limits flexibility on where the scope can be mounted. 

However, this shouldn’t be a problem for most people. 

It also comes with a see-through center channel that allows you to still use iron sights. You can secure this scope mount with 3 solid points of contact, thus providing a solid foundation.

This Springfield mount comes with all installation tools needed upon purchase. It also comes with detailed installation instructions included.

This is great for hunters and competition shooters.

What Users Say:

“This is an excellent mount. It is very well made and packaged in a plastic case with some spare pins. Great Picatinny rail. It was relatively easy to mount and was perfect for my scope. Only three shots to zero in my rifle at 100 yards.” – Anonymous

2. UTG New Gen 4-Point Locking Deluxe M14/M1A Scope Mount

BEST AFFORDABLE MOUNT

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Specifications:

• Manufacturer: Leapers, Inc.
• Weight: 5.7 oz
• Dimensions: 6.1 x 1.6 x 1.8 inches

If you’re on a budget, this UTG sniper mount for M14/M1A rifles is perfect for you.

This Gen mil-spec quality deluxe sniper mount doesn’t sacrifice quality for the price.

Check it out:

• Made of one solid piece of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy
• Has multiple locking points
• Matte black finish to protect from corrosion
• Easy installation

This fully Picatinny-compatible top rail M1A scope mount is the perfect marriage between flexibility and weight. 

It has 15 slots and is fully compatible with Weaver rings and iron sights.

To further help you save money, this scope mount doesn’t require any additional gunsmithing to mount. 

You can do it yourself with just the help of the included manual!

While it doesn’t require a professional to mount, there have been complaints that the manual can be too difficult to understand. 

However, when installed correctly, you can be guaranteed that it’s on no matter how many hundreds of rounds you fire. 

You need not worry about the security of scope mounting with its 4-point locking system, as opposed to the 3 points of contact you usually see in this type of design. 

To further guarantee a solid platform, its side plate also features the following:

• Horizontal bottom guide
• Adjustable side screws
• Locking point

Once you tighten the adjustable side screw and rear-end locks, you can ensure they won’t shoot loose.

This is ideal for hunters, competitive shooters, and even military snipers. 

What Users Say:

“The product itself is great, finish is good for the price. Mounts very solid to my SA-NM. However, as previously stated, the instructions are cryptic at best. I ended up on youtube to get some help. In addition to the Allen wrenches included, you will need duct tape, a bench vice, a 3/32 punch, a rubber mallet and a hammer.” – Anonymous

3. M1Surplus Scope Mount Rail

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

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Specifications:

• Manufacturer: M1Surplus
• Weight: 2.5 oz
• Length: 6.25 inches

If you’re looking for a simple but reliable mount for your M1A, this is the best M1A scope mount for you.

Here’s why:

• Secure 2-point locking system
• Compatible with iron sights
• Durable and lightweight
• Compatible with Picatinny and some Weaver ring mounts

The M1 Surplus Scope Mount Rail is made from durable aluminum with an anodized matte black iron finish.

This allows it to be both lightweight and durable, while its anodized finish protects against corrosion. 

The heavy-duty top M1Surplus scope mount rail also helps to deflect ejected brass shells.

At 6.25″ long, you’re presented with some flexibility in mounting.

The M1 Surplus Scope Mount rail also has a see-through channel down the center to both reduce weight and allow you to still use your iron sights.

However, this would only be good if set for 100-400 yards elevation. Any higher than that, and the mount can obstruct the iron sights. 

TAKE NOTE: It can be difficult to install this mount. Mounting may involve removing the rear stripper clip guide and adding minor filling to the mounting bracket.

Thankfully, M1Surplus makes up for this with their detailed instructions. However, if you aren’t sure, it may be best to take this to the gunsmith for it to be properly installed. 

This specifically designed scope mount is great for competition shooting. 

What Users Say:

“I bought this to put on my SOCOM M1A. It’s so low cost. But holy crap, batman, it works! It’s the best scope mount for M1A I’ve used.” – Anonymous

4. Sadlak Industries M14/M1A Lightweight Airborne Model Steel Scope Mount

BEST PREMIUM MOUNT

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Specifications:

• Manufacturer: Sadlak Industries
• Weight: 0.75 lbs
• Dimensions: ‎8.8 x 5.7 x 1.6 inches

This is the most expensive mount on the list, so we get that this can be a bit intimidating.

But this M14/M1A scope mount from Sadlak Industries is definitely worth its price, and let’s see why:

• Tried and tested by the U.S. Army’s 10th Special Forces
• Made from a solid chrome-moly steel bar
• 3 points of contact
• Great with iron sights
• Compatible with receiver mount lug, receiver mounting hardware, and charger guide dovetail
• Comes with all tools needed

This Sadlak Industries scope mount is made from a unique steel alloy that allows the steel to be 20% lighter without sacrificing durability. This gives it the toughness of steel with the light weight of aluminum. 

This robust scope mount has a see-through U-channel that runs down the length of the Picatinny rail. This channel both reduces weight and allows you to use iron sights with a scope with ease. 

Another great thing about these durable mounts is that they come with everything you need to install it. That’s right!

It comes even with all the fasteners, hex wrenches, and mounting hardware that you need. 

Once you’ve correctly installed it, you can fire even a thousand rounds with this quality mount without worrying about it budging. 

This Sadlak mount is great for competitive and military use but is versatile enough to be used by even hunters and beginners. 

What Users Say:

“The Sadlak Airborne M1A scope mount is superior to the aluminum version. Plus, it’s about half the cost of the Sadlak Industries titanium scope mount. It might weigh a couple of ozs more, but the structural integrity is worth it if you don’t want to spend $450 or so on the titanium one. Then, this is the one to get.” – Anonymous

5. GG&G Scout Scope Mount For M1A

BEST FOR RED DOT SCOPE

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Specifications:

• Manufacturer: GG&G, Inc.
• Weight: 0.48 lbs
• Dimensions: ‎8.3 x 5.2 x 1.3 inches

This quality scope mount made specifically for the  M1A Scout Squad or SOCOM 16 rifles features a marriage of easy installation and a low profile.

If you want to use a red dot scope or long eye relief magnified scope, this is the best M1A scope mount for you.

Take a look for yourself:

• Versatile
• Solid attachments
• Lightweight and durable
• Type III hard coat anodized matte black finish

With a 7″ Picatinny style rail, this scope mount gives you lots of flexibility regarding what scope you want to use.

It also comes with a center groove that runs down the mount to let you see below the scope while also reducing weight. 

This good scope mount is very easy to secure to the receiver without any weapon modification.

Unlike other mounts that use 6 screws, this mount uses 8, thus allowing for more stability and accuracy. Once it’s attached, you know it stays on. 

You can always add a cheek weld to this stable platform for added height.

This mount is best for practice shooting. 

What Users Say:

“Everything about it is great, but be aware it still will not bring a standard rifle scope with the normal eye relief up close enough unless you have a canted mount with about a 2 to 3-inch cant, and then you will need a cheek rest to account for the added height.” – Anonymous

6. AIM Sports M-14/M1A Scope Mount v2

BEST FOR WEAVER ACCESSORIES

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Specifications:

• Manufacturer: AIM Sports
• Weight: 0.85 lbs
• Dimensions: ‎‎7.2 x 3 x 2.4 inches

This AIM Sports mount is an affordable pick compatible with all Weaver-style rings.

Here’s why you should consider it:

• Easy to install
• Compatible with Weaver-style rings
• Highly durable
• Small and compact

This durable aluminum-based scope mount has an anodized finish for extra durability.

This mount’s small and compact design makes it great for smaller scopes. On top of this, it is also very affordable and easy to install.

This is great for beginners and those on a budget.

However, we must point out that there have been several complaints about it having poorly machined construction.

What Users Say:

“I was hesitant to buy this mount until reading Retired Marine Corps Gunny’s review, so I gave it a go. I am SO glad that I did. Solid, holds zero and does not interfere with brass ejection. I have put this thing through its paces, and it is as good as the Springfield Armory mounts, with way less cost.” – Anonymous

Why It’s Important to Get the Right Scope Mount

M1As tend to kick harder than AR-15s.

While it’s nothing like a 12-gauge shotgun, one of the main causes of optic failure is RECOIL.

You have to be sure that whatever optic or mount you’re using can withstand whatever recoil you put it through.

The wrong M1A scope mount can result in disaster.

Things to Consider Before Buying M1A Scope Mounts

You can’t just get any scope mount out there.

How do you know that you are getting the best M1A scope mount?

Here are some things to consider to ensure you get a quality scope mount for M1A:

#1 Material

The material and finish of the M1A scope mount are a key part of the scope mount.

Finishes aren’t just for aesthetics.

They are also there to protect the mount against corrosion which naturally occurs due to contact with moisture and grime.

There are two main materials that scope mounts are made from.

Steel

This was usually the traditional standard for scope mounts.

Steel is the more durable material option and offers a more secure attachment. 

However, it is heavier and more expensive.

Aluminum

This is the newer, more popular material on the market for modern scope mounts.

An aluminum scope mount offers a balance of durability and lightweightedness.

It is best to look for an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy if you choose aluminum.

#2 Rail System

Rail systems refer to how other scopes and accessories can be attached to the mount.

Picatinny rails, which can fit other Picatinny accessories, are the most common rail systems.

The other popular rail system is the Weaver rail, which accepts Weaver rail accessories.

Some other systems allow for the accessories of both Picatinny rails and Weaver rails.

When buying an M1A scope mount, be sure to take note of the rail system your scopes and accessories use.

#3 Attaching System

A loose mount spells disaster as it can cause the scope to get damaged or lose zero. A badly secured scope mount can render even the best scope useless.

Scope mounts often secure through points of contact.

The more points of contact a mount has, the more securely it attaches. 

Take note that these complex attaching systems tend to be more expensive. However, we’d say that this would be an investment worth making.

#4 Ease of Installation

Ease of installation may seem to just be an issue of convenience.

While this may be true, it can also attribute to whether you can really use your scope mount or not.

If a mount is too difficult to install, you may end up breaking it in the process.

You may also end up spending extra out of your budget for a gunsmith to install it for you.

It is best to look for an M1A scope mount that is easy to install unless you’re an experienced firearms owner.

#5 Length

A longer scope mount offers more flexibility regarding the type and position of scope it can accommodate.

However, a longer scope would be heavier, more expensive, and require more securing parts.

When looking at the length of a prospective scope mount, consider how big your scope is and what position you intend to attach it.

#6 Fixed or Detachable?

There are two types of scope mounts: Fixed or detachable.

A fixed mounted scope mount is permanently attached to your firearm.

These are usually used with fixed scopes that stay permanently on the weapon for immediate use. This is best for when you have one main firearm. 

However, if you own multiple weapons, it would be good to get a detachable scope mount that allows for more flexibility with multiple firearm use.

How to Install an M1A Scope Mount Correctly

If you choose to install your scope mount yourself, you will need the proper equipment.

Instructions on installing a scope mount tend to vary from mount to mount, so we cannot give complete instructions on how to do so.

But the general tools needed to mount an M1A scope mount tend to stay the same. It would be handy to take note of the tools below to be prepared.

Tools You Need to Install a Scope Mount

These are just the bare basics of what you need to mount your M1A scope mount:

• Gun cradle/gun vise – This will hold your firearms in place without damaging them, so you can install whatever you need with greater ease and accuracy. Gun cradles aren’t only for the installation of accessories. They’re also great for general gun maintenance and cleaning. Gun cradles are a must for a serious shooter, but if you don’t have one, you can always improvise with a set of bipods and some sandbags.
• Torque wrench – Torque wrenches for guns are different from the torque wrenches for cars. While most regular torque wrenches resemble large hatchets, the torque wrench for firearms looks more like a special screwdriver. Look for a torque wrench that either looks like a chubby straight-handle screwdriver or a T-handle ratcheting screwdriver.
• Large flat nose screwdriver
• ¾” Wrench
• 3/32″ punch
• ¼” punch
• Mallet

Frequently Asked Questions

If some things are still unclear to you, here is a quick list of FAQs to provide more insight and relevant information.

Are Scope Mounts Universal? Does Any Scope Fit Any Rifle?

No, they aren’t. There is no such thing as a universal scope mount.

Some scope mounts may fit perfectly for many rifles, but they won’t be able to fit for some others.

It is best to look for a scope mount that fits the rifle you will be using.

Is the M1A an Accurate Rifle? Is It Good for Hunting or Sniping?

Yes, the M1A is an accurate rifle. It was made to be similar to the AK 47 assault rifle without the full auto function.

Thus, the M1A is very reliable and accurate while offering fast follow-up shots.

It comes chambered .308 Win or 7.62 NATO.

While the M1A can be used as a good hunting rifle, it is more often used for shooting competitions.

Can a Scope Be Mounted on an M1A?

Yes, you can mount a scope on an M1A to increase your accuracy.

While it may be easier to mount an iron sight onto an M1A, you can also mount scopes using a scope mount.

How Accurate Is the M1A?

The M1A is an incredibly accurate rifle. When used with 152-gr Dual Performance Black Hills ammo, it can constantly clock in 1.25 MOA groups at 100 yards.

When used with 175-gr bullets, it can make tight 1.75 MOA groups.

What Is an M1A’s Effective Range?

While the M1A is effective up to 300 yards, it can extend past 600 yards with the right scope and mount.

Conclusion

Above, we have listed our best scope mounts, but not all scope mounts are built the same.

So which is the best scope mount for your situation?

• Best Overall – Springfield MA4GENAM M1A 1-Pc Scope Mount
• Best Affordable Option– UTG New Gen 4-Point Locking Deluxe M14/M1A Scope Mount
• Best for Beginners – M1Surplus Scope Mount Rail

We hope that our reviews for the best M1A scope mounts will help you be able to shoot accurately with your M1A.

For more guides, we have one on how to use AK 47 sights!

Happy shooting!