Optics for the SOCOM 16 or Scout
About to purchase one of these, but I've heard finding optics that work well/easy to mount is difficult.
Any reocmendations from the experts would be appreciated.
I am not an expert.
But, I would recommend a Sadlak mount for putting optics on a scout or socom. It delivers three points of contact and the design and build is top notch in my opinion. As for optics, that's more of a preference thing... I've had a aimpoint comp m3 on my scout EBR for a while but recently mounted a Sightron SIII 3.5-10x and I think that's the way to go for a 'battle rifle' set up. I know the seat you're in, in terms of figuring out the best optics solution, I was in it a year ago myself. Hope that helps and let the board know if you've got more questions, I'm sure people with a lot more experience will chime in as you move through your project.
depending on budget, aimpoint micro or primary arms micro with a low mount
I was looking around for the same reason, I really liked the Burris XTR 1.5-6x illuminated. I think for the scout or socom its an outstanding option for shooting up to 600m.
just my opinion

If you want to use the scout mount there are a few options that are quite nice. Burris 2-7 EER pistol scope has enough range to be used as a scout, has no problem with recoil and can be had with balistic markings on the reticle. It has the advantage of higher power than the standard scout scope while giving the same low end with no problem.
Any of the Leupold EER scout scopes work well. I have 2, a 2 and a 2.75 and they both are very high quality, but lack the flexibility of the Burris.
EER scopes on a rifle make shooting with both eyes open and following moving targets quite a bit easier, or more intuitive, so to speak.
If price is no object take a look at the Elcan Spectre.
http://swfa.com/Elcan-SpecterDR-Optical-Sights-C80.aspx
I have the Leupold 1.5x4x28 Scout scope on mine and so far it seems to be working well, I use it with the Scout forward mount with Leopld QRW rings so I can drop the scope and use the irons when needed.
Burris 2-7 EER pistol scope has enough range to be used as a scout, has no problem with recoil and can be had with balistic markings on the reticle. It has the advantage of higher power than the standard scout scope while giving the same low end with no problem.
That's what I use and I'm a big fan
Are we talking magnified, or red-dot type?
I went with more of a "close range" setup on my Socom, but can have the red dot off in a second to use irons.
This is a Pride Fowler mini dot in a Larue QD mount. Sort of a "mini-Eotech" setup.
ETA: Also, this setup weighs in at 3 ounces!
-Tim
Smitty, that's a nice set-up you have there.
I prefer scout style scopes:
Its useful at close to mid range, on fast or slow moving targets. The scope pictured is a Burris 2-7X32 pistol/scout scope.
Originally Posted By panther308:
I have the Leupold 1.5x4x28 Scout scope on mine and so far it seems to be working well, I use it with the Scout forward mount with Leopld QRW rings so I can drop the scope and use the irons when needed.
QRW rings do not work on my Scout. I have a very early scout so maybe they changed the rail spec. They will not tighten up enough to grab the rail.
I have a PRO mounted on a SOCOM but I'm planning to replace it with a Pride Fowler RDS to lighten up a little.
I commend you doing a bit of research before spending money on an optic for this gun. I had a Leupold 2.5 scout scope on mine and found I hated what it did to the balance of the gun... took it back off.
I removed the rail section, replaced it with a standard handguard, and have been happy ever since.
I have considered a very light red dot like a T-1, but I am not sure how it would hold up to the heat so I have been dragging my feet.