Scope Height Question

flagmanahead

Private
Minuteman
May 28, 2009
21
0
50
USA
Does it make sense to put high scope rings on an M1A just so that you can see the Iron Sights underneath the scope? I have one scope on mediums where I can only see half of the front post and one on a high mount where I can see the whole post and I'm having a hard time thinking of an occasion where I will need to see both scope and irons at the same time. I know it's hard enough to get good cheek placement as is and I don't want to make it worse with a high mount.

Thoughts?
 
Re: Scope Height Question

When I had a set up similar to that years ago I can't recall ever using the irons. For me I prefer to go low.
 
Re: Scope Height Question

Really you have to ask yourself "what is the purpose of this rifle?" Is it a weekend plinker or is it your SHTF rig? Why do you need the iron sights, and if you do feel the need just how fast will you need them? Also, what is the reliability of your scope and mount combo? If it is of questionable quality, then that might be a good reason to want the irons readily available.

Me personally I don't like any setup that requires me to sacrifice my cheek weld, and going higher means I need a higher comb on the stock whether from an adjustable stock or from a stock pack. When I do that, I couldn't readily use the iron sights anyhow so I got away from them entirely. You may prefer otherwise on the cheek weld change, but it has been my experience that it leads to reduced accuracy when using the scope mounted higher than a resting cheek weld will allow.

Basically, there is a reason QD mounts and BUIS were developed for the AR platforms, and shooters who prefer to have both immediately available went to a side mount design for the irons or a red dot. That is the way to have the best of both worlds.

If you don't mind having the change in cheek weld, and you feel the need to have the irons readily usable, then go for it. Otherwise, err on the side of accuracy and stay lower.
 
Re: Scope Height Question

Good point. This is a general purpose rifle. It's not something that I would shoot a comp with but rather something I could reach out to 500 yds with around my property for varmints (both 4 legged and 2 legged)