First Focal Plane vs. Second Focal Plane Riflescopes: Which Is Better for Long Range Hunting?

[FURMAN]

I don't see myself using a second focal plane scope ever again unless it is for dangerous game. What do you prefer and why?

First Focal Plane vs. Second Focal Plane Riflescopes: Which Is Better for Long Range Hunting? - Long Range Only

First Focal Plane vs. Second Focal Plane Riflescopes: Which Is Better for Long Range Hunting? First focal plane versus second focal plane is one …

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[Joel@LRO]

I'll always run a SFP. I like the reticle always staying the same size no matter what magnification. In the last 15 years scopes have come a long way to make FFP scopes reticles a better option in my opinion; but I'm a simple person and appreciate long term habits not being changed. I see the argument for both, can use both, but ill keep with the 'KISS' principle for my rigs.

 

[ParsnipPappy]

Aging eyesight makes it imperative to use an SFP optic.

 

[Mark Dille]

Truly depends on how you use it, but probably more importantly, the magnification range. I personally wouldn't want a SFP scope with a max power above 15x, and 12x even better. I always hold for wind, so FFP is important when a scope's max power may be higher than the setting you'll end up usually shooting at.

 

[Dallen0427]

All but one scope are SFP for me. I put a FFP scope on the rifle I built for my daughter (to be given next May) as I think it will be easier for her. She’ll likely settle in ID where longer shots are likely. She’s got extremely (amazingly) sharp eyes so I don't think the reticle will be a problem for her at lower power. For a lot of the hunting I do, being more open country with longer distances being likely, a FFP scope would make more sense with wind holds requiring no math. But a SFP scope like the NX8 work great for me as they subtend correctly at both max and at 16X. The next scope will be a FFP scope with the lowest power not being less than 4 or 6 or another NX8. I can’t really see the (FFP) reticle at 2.5x.

 

[RBanta66]

I like them both as they both have there place. However my long range dedicated rifles are all topped with FFP. My walking around the woods rifles are SFP.

 

[Mark Dille]

I like them both as they both have there place. However my long range dedicated rifles are all topped with FFP. My walking around the woods rifles are SFP.

I have created both mil and MOA reticles in FFP that can do both. Precision at long range with a fine reticle while also serving as a spot and stalk option in black timber. Without any subtention thickness adjustments, which I would honestly do based on each scope model and purpose, it works "as is" from 1x to 35x. Can't get a scope manufacturer interested enough. Don't think my market presence is strong enough to give them a sales pitch angle to bother with. It's a shame, honestly, but such is the game most often.

P.S. I'd love to see the new NX6 I just bought with this reticle. I'm really digging the 5x30 thus far. Very well done.

 

[elkguide]

Have both. Preference is SFP for hunting and either for just shooting.

 

[Mike D Texas]

The only non FFP scope I own is an SWFA fixed 10x.

 

[quandary]

FFP all the way. If you are holding for wind trying to convert the right hold for the magnification you are using on the fly can be a fools errand. After all how often are you really dialed up to 18, 15, 25....... FFP takes all that process away and simplifies the process under the time constraints of set-up, acquisition and pulling the trigger.

On the other hand if you are shooting at say 200 yards or under it doesn't really matter.

 

[LongshotJames]

Totally depends on the use but its SFP for me. I had a LR setup elk hunting. Twice on the same hunt I found elk in a meadow only 150yds away on an overcast evening. The reticle would completely disappear at that close range. After much frustration, I passed the bull but I was furious at the idea of having a bull at 150yds with no reticle!

I was able to play with the magnification and AO to figure out a happy medium of middle power and field of view with a faint reticle, I could have made the shot but that was un-needed stress.

So its SFP on all hunting rifles. FFP is fine for steel and target rifles but as a hunter first we never know what situation we are going to be put in and I want to be prepared.

Scope was a Vortex Viper Longrange 6-24x50 I believe(no lighted reticle). Since ive switched to Sightron SiIII and NF NX8 SFP's and couldnt be happier!
James

 

[Broz]

SFP all the way for me. Have used many of both and just prefer the reticle stay constant and visible all the time. I dial wind and elevation for 1st shot, and can hold for a follow up on any power with zero problems using a reticle I can see.

 

[Tonopah]

I have recently been interested in learning long range shooting and have FFP scopes for that. I’ve even moved over from MOA to Mils and I use a Kestrel and a chrono. Figuring all that out has been a lot of fun.

But for hunting, I think second focal plane is the way to go. I just picked up a Vortex LHT 3x15x50 SFP scope and put it on a 7mm-08 of mine. I also scoped an 18” .308 Bergara with a Steiner Predator 4 in 2.5x10x42 SFP. Both scopes have fantastic reticles for hunting use. I also like Trijicon Accupoints for hunting. Darn nice scopes.

 

[BCJR]

Smaller critters and over 500 yards ….FFP. Other than that SFP.