Are you in the market for the best scope for M4? If so, you have come to the right place. This post sheds light on the best scopes for the popular M4 rifle that are available on the market currently.
When it comes to hunting and shooting, the M4 is one of the most popular firearms available out there. It is popularly known for its ease of use and great performance, particularly in the hunting grounds. Thanks to its renowned reputation, it has become the go-to rifle for hunters looking to up their game in the hunting field.
If you use the M4 for whatever application, a good scope is a valuable tool to have. It is key to offering greater accuracy and maximizing your overall performance. Additionally, a scope can help you find targets swiftly, especially at extended ranges, and ensure that you leave nothing undiscovered.
However, finding the best scope for M4 is not a walk in the park. With a sea of options available out there, the selection process is somewhat unpleasant and daunting, especially for first-time buyers. To help, we have done a review of the top 7 best scopes that pair well with this versatile and dependable firearm. We also have an additional buying guide to help you choose the best model for your needs.
Without wasting any more time, let’s get started.
7 Best Scope for M4
Here are the best scopes for M4 rifle available on the market today.
1) Trijicon ACOG 4×32 USMC M4 Rifle Scope
First on our list is the Trijicon ACOG 4×32 USMC M4 Rifle Scope. This rifle scope is built to provide quick target acquisition for close combat ranges and more accurate shot placement for targets at extended ranges.
The scope is made to last. It is built from forged aluminum alloy housing which provides a nearly indestructible optic. Additionally, it is shockproof to weather any impact or vibrations from high recoil for greater durability.
Another feature that makes the ACOG 4×32 USMC stand out is the superior image clarity it provides. Built with broadband anti-reflective lens coatings, it offers excellent light gathering abilities for bright, detailed and crisp image views. Further, it comes with Trijicon fiber optics that illuminate the reticle based on the available light.
The scope also features a decent field of view for faster target acquisition and a lightweight design of just 15.1oz so it will be easy to carry wherever you go. Best of all, it is fully fog proof and waterproof for all-weather reliability.
Features
- 4x fixed magnification
- Multi-coated lenses
- Matte finish
- Fog proof and shockproof construction
- Illuminated reticle
- Military grade aluminum alloy housing
Pros
- Battery free illumination
- Great low light performance
- Lightweight design
- Crystal clear optics
Cons
- Costly
- Short eye relief
2) Vortex StrikeFire II Scope w/ 4 MOA Dot
Vortex makes a multitude of high-quality scopes and this is clear in the StrikeFire II Scope. Mounting this ultra-versatile optic on your M4 rifle will guarantee split-second target acquisition and greater accuracy as well.
It features unlimited eye relief that helps with faster target acquisition as well as snug observation with or without eyeglasses. Furthermore, the scope employs fully multi-coated optics that yield a clear field of view, even when you are hunting in low light conditions. It also has a 4 MOA dot with 10 intensity levels for day and night operation.
Like any other Vortex optic, the StrikeFire II Scope is built to weather anything nature throws at it. It has a 30mm aluminum alloy chassis that is recoil proof and shockproof for greater durability. Additionally, it is waterproof, dust proof and fog-free for use under any environment.
Features
- Crisp clear 4 MOA dot
- Unlimited eye relief
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Water, fog and shock proof construction
- 1x fixed magnification
- 30mm objective lens
- Aluminum alloy chassis
Pros
- Parallax free
- Night vision compatible
- Lightweight and compact design
- Great value for the price
- Great glass quality
Cons
- The mount is confusing and difficult to use
3) Trijicon 4×32 ACOG Scope M4A1 Rifle Scope
If you are looking for a scope that matches the maneuverability and versatility of your M4, this is it. The Trijicon 4×32 ACOG Scope is built with nearly every feature that you need to find targets swiftly and place the shot accurately.
This rifle scope is ideal for shooting and hunting among several moving targets. It will help you identify the target accurately and now where to place the shot. Besides, it has a Tritium reticle illumination that enhances visibility in various lighting conditions and a decent visual field that makes target spotting a walk in the park. The scope also features 4x fixed magnification that is ideal for close and medium range hunting.
In terms of construction, the body of this scope is crafted from forged aluminum that maximizes its durability while remaining lightweight. Further, the robust housing is rigid enough to stand up to heavy recoil, shock and impacts. It is also designed to be operable in a wide range of temperatures and with the strong seals, you can use it in any weather condition.
To top it all, the scope comes with a sighting hole that allows easy addition of an iron sight without removing it from the rifle.
Features
- Forged aluminum housing
- 4x fixed magnification
- Fog proof, shockproof and water proof
- Internally adjustable
- BDC reticle
- Tritium illumination
Pros
- Outstanding optics clarity
- Ultra-robust and durable
- Compact, light and easy to use
- The reticle is bright and easy to use
- Excellent low light performance
Cons
- Poor eye relief
- Expensive
4) NightForce 2.5-10x42mm NXS Compact Rifle Scope
Nightforce is a leading brand in the optics industry. It is known for its high-end scopes and the 2.5-10x42mm NXS Compact Rifle Scope is not any different. This rifle scope harbors a multitude of high-end features that will help push your M4 rifle to full potential.
Featuring a variable 2.5-10x zoom power, the scope offers both close and long range versatility. It is also equipped with a large 42mm to complement the versatile magnification power and an adjustable parallax that ensures parallax-free viewing from 25 yards to infinity.
Furthermore, this compact rifle scope is built like a tank. It has a robust housing that is sturdy enough to withstand any rough handling. Besides that, it has a matte finish to help hide your position when hunting under broad sunlight and a power throw lever that allows for instant magnification adjustments.
The scope is also available in multiple reticle options with adjustable brightness settings to ensure optimal visibility even in inadequate light settings.
Features
- 5-10x magnification
- Second focal plane reticle
- DigIllum reticle illumination
- 30mm main tube
- Side parallax adjustment
- Power throw lever
- 42mm objective
- Matte finish
Pros
- Night vision compatible settings
- High-quality workmanship
- Quality optics
- Solid adjustment clicks
Cons
- Heavy on the pocket
5) Vortex Razor Gen II-E 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
Another best scope for M4 on our list is the Razor Gen II-E 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope. This scope is immensely popular among hunters and shooters thanks to the exceptional accuracy and reliable performance it yields.
It employs high-quality optics which provide a level of clarity, color fidelity and resolution that is second to none. Moreover, it possesses an LED illuminated second focal plane reticle that remains visible under any light settings. You can also adjust its brightness to 11 different settings to match the situation at hand and maximize your shooting accuracy.
Following its high-quality craftmanship, the scope provides dependable performance no matter the hunting condition. It is made of top-notch materials that optimize durability, even in the most unforgiving outdoor conditions. Furthermore, the external surface is coated with a hard anodized finish to ensure that it stays rust proof and scratch-free.
Well, that’s not all. The Razor Gen II-E 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is rated to be fully waterproof and fog proof for use under any weather. It also comes with Armortek coating that shield the exterior lens from scratches, dust and dirt.
Other essential features included are a fast focus eyepiece, generous eye relief and large diameter turrets.
Features
- HD lens elements
- 30mm single-piece tube
- Large diameter turrets
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Water, fog and shock proof
- Hard anodized finish
- Armortek lens coating
- Second focal plane reticle
- XR plus fully multi-coated lenses
Pros
- Capped turrets
- Clear and high-quality optics
- Long eye relief
- Versatile illumination
- Lightweight
Cons
- Costly for the budget buyer
6) Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Rifle Scope
The Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm is the best scope for M4 for the budget buyers. It offers a wide range of good quality and reliable features at an amazingly affordable price point.
This scope will last for years thanks to the robust housing. It has a ruggedized 6061-T6 aluminum housing that is tough enough to weather rough outdoor handling. It also possesses scratch resistant lenses that provide additional protection from dust and scuffs, and a waterproof and fog-free design for use even in bad weather conditions.
Another admirable feature of this scope is its low light performance. It employs a Twilight Light Management System that offers unmatched image brightness and clarity even in the poor lighting conditions. It also features a finger click adjustment system and an ultra-lightweight design to ensure that you have a comfortable time carrying it in the field.
Features
- Scratch resistant lenses
- Waterproof and fog proof
- One-inch main tube
- Twilight Light Management System
- Versatile 3:1 zoom ratio
- 1/4 MOA finger click dial system
- Second focal plane reticle
Pros
- Easy on the wallet
- Ultra-lightweight design
- Comfortable eye relief
- Good quality glass
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
- It is a 1-inch tube scope
7) NightForce NX8 1-8×24 F1 Scope w/ZeroStop
Lastly, we have the NightForce NX8 1-8×24 F1 Scope. This rifle scope is designed to provide outstanding optical performance, accuracy and reliability even in the most demanding conditions in any hunting ground or shooting range.
It features a variable magnification that ranges from 1x to 8x. At close quarters, it provides a wide visual field that makes target spotting a breeze. You can also ramp it up to 8x for more rapid target acquisition at extended ranges.
Furthermore, the scope employs premium ED glass elements that generate exceptional image detail and clarity from dawn till dusk. On top of that, the lens feature a broadband multi-coating that enhance light transmission in low light settings for better target identification and acquisition.
Construction-wise, the scope is built from premium quality materials that offer superior strength and durability. It also has a compact and lightweight design so it won’t interfere with your movement in any way.
Features
- Built-in power throw lever
- ZeroStop function
- First focal plane reticle
- 1-8x magnification range
- Waterproof construction
- 30mm body tube
- ED glass elements
- Broadband fully multi-coated lenses
Pros
- Ruggedized and reliable housing
- Compact and lightweight
- Crystal clear optics
- Reticle illumination
- Good eye relief
Cons
- Pricey
Read Also
- Best Scope for 50 BMG
- Best Scope for 300 Win Mag
- Best Scope for 450 Bushmaster
- Best Low Light Rifle Scope
Criteria for Choosing the Best Scope for M4
Regardless of whether you are purchasing the first M4 scope or you need to get a newer optic, below are some of the key features you should take into consideration before purchasing an M4 scope.
Magnification
Choosing a scope with the right magnification can help you push your M4 to its full potential. Generally, your intended usage and how far you will be shooting at determines the most appropriate scope magnification.
A fixed power scope is more suitable for taking shots at constant ranges in close and medium quarters. On the other hand, it is best to get a variable power scope so you have the flexibility to take shots at different ranges. Typically, any model with not more than 10x magnification power will do.
Type of Scope
Given that the M4 is one of the most versatile rifles out there, there are plenty of scopes that you can pair it with and achieve or exceed your expectations.
Generally, you can get an LPVO, red dot sight, variable power scope or thermal scope. It all trickles down to the intended usage and your preference.
Lens Coating
Get a scope that employs fully multi-coated lenses or fully-coated lenses. Such a scope will enhance light transfer and minimize glare and loss of light via reflection. Glare reduction makes aiming simpler when you are shooting in excess light settings. Additionally, optimal light transfer guarantees bright and clear image views even in low light settings.
Weatherproofing
No matter the application that you will be using the M4 for, it is best to get a scope that can handle rain, fog, snow, mist and any other weather element. The scope should be purged with either argon or nitrogen to counter fog build up internally and externally. It should also be sealed to keep moisture, dust, dirt and any other debris from entering the optics.
Eye Relief
Ideally, the scope you get should have an eye relief that is not less than 3.5 inches. The M4 kicks hard when fired and can result to eye injury if the scope you are using has a poor eye relief. A scope with a generous eye relief also aids in faster target acquisition and maximizes eye comfort with or without eyeglasses.
Durability
The M4 is an ultra-versatile rifle that performs in virtually any condition. To achieve its fully potential, you will need a scope that is well built to weather anything you and nature subject it to.
With so many options out there, go for a model that is made from premium grade materials such as aluminum. The scope you get should also be shockproof to withstand rough handling.
Weight
Weight is another important factor that you should take into account. Given then the M4 emits heavy recoil, it is best to get a scope with an ultra-lightweight design. It will disperse the recoil effectively and optimize durability. A light scope is also easy to carry, simpler to mount and convenient to shoot with.
Best Scope for M4 FAQs
- What optics does the military use with the M4?
The US military uses the Trijicon ACOG optics with the M4. These optics are designed to offer rapid target acquisition and greater shooting accuracy which is what the military look for the most in an optic.
- What is the best scope for an M4?
The best scope for an M4 is one that meets your needs and hunting/shooting needs and habits. Given the plethora of options available out there, it is hard to say that there is one scope fits all since our needs are different.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right scope for your M4 can help you make the most out of it whether you are in the military or you are civilian shooter. Knowing what features you need the scope to have will make your selection process less taxing and more pleasant. No matter what your needs are, there is an option out there waiting for you.