M49 Observation Scope with case found at gun show

[AJ]

I found this M49 Observation Scope with its carrying case at the local gun show. Not a ton of info on them. One reference says the Marines used them as a spotting scope for a sniper team. Paid $215 for it OTD.

 

[AJ]

This is the case.

 

[smoothshooter]

I have spent many hours behind one in the 1990’s while shooting on the Army Nation Guard High-power and Combat Rifle teams. They were part of a large large set of equipment ( including National Match M-14 we were allowed to keep at home between matches ) each team member had on hand receipts.
Don’t remember the magnification, but I had no complaints. Don’t recall a manufacturer’s name on the tube ( I think it had been painted over more than once “ but we assumed they were Redfields. Very clear optics and very durable. Would buy one in a heartbeat if I found one at a decent price.

 

[AJ]

I have spent many hours behind one in the 1990’s while shooting on the Army Nation Guard High-power and Combat Rifle teams. They were part of a large large set of equipment ( including National Match M-14 we were able allowed to keep at home between matches ) each team member had on hand receipts.
Don’t remember the magnification, but I had no complaints. Don’t recall a manufacturer’s name on the tube, but we assumed they were Redfields. Very clear optics and very durable. Would buy one in a heartbeat if I found one at a decent price.

No manufacturers name plate. Just the plate shown that says M49.

 

[AJ]

Found this M49 Spotting Scope W/E (M49 Observation Telescope) | Seiler Precision Manufacturing

 

[mckenney99]

The first spotting scope I ever bought was a M49, about 40+ years ago. I think I paid $100 and that included the tripod that had been broken but professionally welded. The optics were very clear and I got a lot of use from mine. All the ranges here are max 100yds so it worked well for my purposes. I have since replaced it with a higher power spotting scope because I believe mine lost its seals and if I remember correctly it lost focus. I still have it tucked away in a closet in case I can find someone who can rebuild it some day.

 

[AJ]

Took it to the range this morning. Still works well. I have trouble holding the proper eye relief to see the target, but that is just me. Now to find a M15 Tripod to put together with the scope, scope case and the tripod case that I have. Maybe I will get lucky and find one here in my stash of tripods.

 

[M1Garandy]

Here is the M42A1 case you will need for the M15 tripod: M15 Tripod Cases For M49 Telescope

Best price I am aware of and good people to deal with.

 

[AJ]

Here is the M42A1 case you will need for the M15 tripod: M15 Tripod Cases For M49 Telescope

Best price I am aware of and good people to deal with.

I have the case. Picked up a tripod (a B&L iirc) a while back and it was in the M42A1 case.

 

[Ricsen]

You’re correct. The M49 was indeed used by USMC scout sniper teams. A great scope. If I ever run across one in good shape I’d buy it for sure.

 

[22shtur]

I used one when I was with 2nd and 3rd Recon Bn's. I see them often at gun shows. Now that high power rifle shooters don't need spotting scopes at matches that use electronic targets, I think there will be more being sold off.

 

[smoothshooter]

The first spotting scope I ever bought was a M49, about 40+ years ago. I think I paid $100 and that included the tripod that had been broken but professionally welded. The optics were very clear and I got a lot of use from mine. All the ranges here are max 100yds so it worked well for my purposes. I have since replaced it with a higher power spotting scope because I believe mine lost its seals and if I remember correctly it lost focus. I still have it tucked away in a closet in case I can find someone who can rebuild it some day.

Want to sell it?