[Rotting]

Aside from correcting your shots, scopes make great tools for viewing the area. Keep in mind this has it's benefits and disadvantages. If you're using an M4 stock, which I believe uses a 363mm inner barrel, don't bother with a scope. Why? Most people with an M4 wwith a 363mm barrel are focused on pointman style maneuvers, not long range shots. Putting a scope on a 363mm barrel rifle is adding excess weight, and in the field you'll be at a disadvantage having to look down the scope instead of your iron sights. If you're using a 509mm barrel rifle, odds are you set yourself up to be a suppressive fire, counter-sniper, or just simply long-range shooter, and in this case a scope is your friend. A 455mm barrel works as well, but it's pushing it.

You can correct your shots with iron sights as well. When I strip down my rifle for CQB, the scope is not there. If I find myself in a firefight where the distance is causing some error in my shooting, the iron sights work perfectly and I don't lose my target from tunnel vision with a scope. If you're in a forest setting or whatnot and like the idea of having the ability to view your area effectively, but are using an assault rifle or a short-range rifle, invest in some mini-binoculars. It takes the extra weight off your rifle, which I find is key if you're on the offensive line, and still gives you that viewing potential. They aren't expensive, just don't get the ultra-cheap ones either. You get to keep your lightweight assault-rifle or close range rifle and keep the ability to have a magnifier of some sort.