5 Best M1A Scope Mounts | 2020 Reviews

Finding the best M1A scope mount is pretty tricky. The M1A requires a dovetail rail mount.  The best scope mount for M14 is made by SADLAK. However, those scope mounts are expensive.

In this guide, we will review the top M1A mounts and the more affordable options as well.

Best M1A Scope Mounts

1. SADLAK M14/M1A Airborne Scope Mount – Best Sniper M1A Mount

Sadlak Industries is not a newcomer. It has been around since the 1990’s, producing the high-quality components for the M1A and M14 platforms. So it doesn’t come as a surprise that Sadlak mounts are one of the most stable, durable, and reliable options available nowadays.

Built for the military, this M1A scope mount holds up easily under all conditions and in any situation that may appear. This is why Airborne forces are using it for heavy-duty combat deployments. Aside from military combat operations, it can be used for other activities like hunting and target practice. That means it’s available for citizens as well.

The SADLAK Airborne Scope mount is designed with utmost durability and stability in mind. If you wanna balance weight with durability, this is the best way to do it. The scope rail is hardened to 45-50 RC, whereas a three-point contact ensures the best stability.

While rather costly compared to other mount options available, you’ll rest assured that you have spent money on a military-grade high-end scope mount that offers an excellent platform for just about any scope. If money is no object, this scope mount could be the best option for you.

Pros

• Three-point locking system
• Solid structure
• Effortless installation
• Amazing fit
• Lightweight

Cons

• Expensive option

2. Springfield Armory M1A Generation 4 Scope Mount – Best Overall

If you’re an owner of Springfield Armory, investing in a scope mount that comes from the same company would be a logical choice. That’s because you’ll know that your scope mount is produced by the same guys who have made your firearm. And you would not slip up.

In addition to Springfield Armory firearms, it also works on other M14 clones. Designed as a one-piece unit that fits snugly onto your rifle, this M1A scope mount provides a stable and solid platform to your rifle by mounting firmly into place. Since this platform is fairly wide, it can support the larger scope models.

It is made of aluminum and comes with a matte black finish. Thanks to aluminum construction, this product only weighs 1.15 pounds. You can also find steel options on the market, but remember that they can add significant weight to your rifle.

On the Picatinny rail, there are 10 slots in total. They are evenly spaced between the rear and front of the mount. Besides, the mount also comprises two locking points. Note that your purchase includes mounting tools and installation instructions(source).

Proper Installation is A Must

Watch the video to ensure proper installation. Proper installation is essential for accuracy and maintaining zero.

Pros

• Very secure and stable construction
• Strong and wide platform
• Handles recoil well
• Extra supplies
• Easy to install

Cons

• Installation guide could be better

3. SADLAK M14 Aluminum Scope Mount – Best Ultralight M1A Mount

We will get back to Sadlak again and we have a good reason for that. Here’s another amazing model from this company that is worth taking into consideration. Although primarily intended for M14, this scope mount works perfectly on M1A as well.

Given that it’s constructed from reinforced aluminum with a hard-coat exterior, your scope will have a sturdy support for sure. It accepts both Weaver and Picatinny-style rings. A three-point contact design allows for easy installation. Moreover, it comes with all mounting hardware, hex wrenches, and fasteners.

Aluminum body with tungsten coating makes this product highly durable, lightweight, and weatherproof. The aerospace aluminum is anodized in order to keep the surface finish safe from corrosion and damage. It’s going to keep the zero even when used in extreme conditions.

Furthermore, the tight design ensures that the mount fits like a glove. It feels solid when mounted on the rifle. Maybe this model seems like a pricey investment, but you get a scope mount that’s ready for duty right out of the box. It’s well worth it!

Pros

• Doesn’t move from the gun
• Tungsten coating
• Durable
• Compact design
• Lightweight

Cons

• Forward rail isn’t sufficient for better eye relief
• The brass area tends to reflect under bright light

4. UTG New Gen 4-Point M14 / M1A Scope Mount – Affordable M1A Mount

Equipped with 4 locking points and machined from aircraft aluminum alloy, the UTG New Gen is a top-tier scope mount that offers optimal performance for M1A rifles.

Many shooters love this scope mount because it has a couple of unique features. With that being said, it features a one-piece sturdy design, a generous 15-slot top rail that’s compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver rings, and an adjustable side screw that allows for exceptionally precise hand fit. Of course, it needs a bit of adjusting to fit your rifle, but this is something that all M1A scope mounts require.

In the end, let’s mention this product comes with the mounting hardware. It is very easy to install, so gunsmithing is not required at all. If you are on a budget but wanna be sure that you will get something rugged and proven, then we’d recommend UGT New Gen.

Pros

• Fits rings and scopes
• Multiple locking points
• Easy to mount
• Well-made and very stable
• Affordable

Cons

• Not suited for long-term use
• Might not be a good fit for some iron sights

5. Aim Sports M-14 / M1A Scope Mount – Best Low Price Option

Another affordable purchase, the scope mount by AIM Sports is a great low-priced option for those who want to go back to basics. Featuring a classic rugged design and standard rail, this M1A scope mount allows you to save money while still scoping your rifle reliably.

Built of strong aircraft-grade aluminum, this piece of equipment can do the job of mounting a scope in a solid way and without any hassle. This is because the Aim Sports scope mount offers a well-supportive foundation for scopes, making them stay in place steadily all the while. The black finish is made of anodized aluminum to withstand exposure to the elements and have a sleek design.

Another great thing about this scope mount is that it accepts any standard Weaver ring. After performing the minor fitting required to match it with your particular rifle, you will certainly find it an extraordinary option for your beloved M1A.

Pros

• Good design
• Solid materials
• Professional black finish
• Sturdy
• Cheap

Cons

• Not suitable for beginners
• You’ll have to put a lot of effort into adjusting it for your needs

Buyer’s Guide: Things You Must Know Before Buying

For more help, we will provide you with guidelines that should assist you in choosing the right M1A scope mount. Take a moment and look them over.

Type: Detachable or Fixed

First and foremost, you should know which type of scope mount is most convenient for you. It’s all about how you’ll be using your scope. There are 2 major types of scopes to choose from: fixed and detachable.

Detachable mounts are particularly beneficial for those owning multiple weapons. That’s because these flexible mounts let you effortlessly transfer your scope to any of your firearms. In fact, they can be easily removed and installed on a broad range of rifles when the need arises.

As their name suggests, the fixed scope mounts aren’t removable. This means such a mount will stay attached to your firearm all the time. Therefore, this option is perfect for those seeking something steadily affixed on their rifle. It reduces the risk of damaging the essential parts.

Material

The materials used determine the durability and stability of a scope mount. There’s a broad array of materials for construction of M1A scope mounts. Aluminum is considered to be the best one, as it is lightweight and quite durable. So it’s no wonder that it is the most popular material when it comes to scope mounts.

Performance

Aside from making sure that your scope mount is durable and robust, you will also want it is absolutely excellent in performance. A scope mount that can stay in place all the while without moving from the gun when you’re on your target is definitely a good one. Additionally, it’s supposed to handle recoil well, offer a wide platform, and has the perfect fit for your gun.

Rings

Rings are intended to match bases. Still, you should check out the compatibility before buying a scope mount just in case.

It’s very important to determine the correct ring height. The M1A stock typically comes with a low comb that’s meant to be utilized with the aperture sight. So, when putting a mount, optic, scope, and rings on it, it will sit high off the main bore axis. While a chin weld will be working, it won’t be optimal though.

There are two kinds of scope rings: horizontal split and vertical split. The vertical ones are usually stronger since each ring half is directly connected to the base of scope. On the downside, they are slightly difficult to install. The horizontal split rings, on the other hand, are easy to install. The top half clamps over the scope, while the bottom half holds the scope by clamping directly to the base.

With regard to the style, the Waver rings are most common today. No matter what type and style you choose, be sure that the rings keep your scope and mount flush with your M1A.

Size and Weight

The scope mounts come in different sizes and weights. That usually depends on the material used and model. A lightweight scope ensures that your rifle isn’t weighed down, thereby causing fatigue and affecting the accuracy of your shot.

Bear in mind that the M1A is a pretty weighty firearm. Combined with an optic, mount, and rings, it can easily reach 13 pounds. That will be too heavy if you’re planning to use this as a ranch rifle or truck gun. After lugging the thing around and using it for a little while, you will be very tired.

Luckily, it’s possible to reduce some weight by going with an aluminum base. Aerospace and aircraft-grade aluminum is the best choice. The mount made of such a material is very lightweight so that it will be off the action as well as the barrel.

Springfield Armory is The Winner

Now that you know what to look out for when choosing a scope mount and have top five picks at your disposal, it should be much easier for you to make a decision. Our top choice is the Springfield Armory M1A Generation 4 without a doubt. This awesome scope mount provides a strong, wide base for mounting at a fairly good price. If you need something basic yet long-lasting and reliable, consider investing in this model. We promise you won’t regret it.