MY son's Colt A2 HBAR fast twist needs a long range scope for shooting heavy match loads.

If we place a scope as low as possible (say a Leupold Police tactical 3x9) on the top of the carry handle will we need a cheek-piece added to the rifle or can the rifle be shot well without the added cheekpiece?

Or should we ditch the A2 receiver and get a flat top instead?

I put this on both this forum and the optics forum.  Is there a forum for long range shooters where I might get specific information?

I agree, and get a good scope, They make a big difference. I went from a $100.00 Taso to a $800 Leupold, WoW what a difference. You don't need to spend that much, but spend at least $250 to $350 on a scope. The B&L Elite's, Leupold Vari XII and IV's are nice too, also the Nikons, Burris are nice. I havent seen a Simmons I'd own . the Tasco Super Sniper are pretty good, The IOR Valdada's were a better bargins 3 yrs ago but the prices ahve really risen. The new generation of Sprinfild Armory's are bright and clear, But the are just so big the are almost impractical. One of the best scopes ever made was the Baush and Lomb Tactical 10x40mm 4200 Elite. Superb. I had one in the mid 90's and sold it when funds got low. DUMUMIE,, DUMMIE, DUMMIE!!!!. Anyway watch the sale board at snipercountry.com and ebay, Good glass show up there frequently.

You can go with a flat-top and the one piece ring/mount, or better yet get a riser and some good rings. I am putting Bushmaster's 2 piece risers on mine with Burris Signature rings. Haven't decided on glass yet, but the Burris with the balistic plex is in the lead price wise.