In this article, I will explain whats behind the first focal plane vs second focal plane debate.
This will not be an in the weeds examination of the differences between first and second focal plane scopes.
Rather, this is intended to be a short and sweet overview that will be easy to understand.
TheMeopta Optika5is a prime example of a second focal plane scope.
Lets dive in…
What Is a First Focal Plane Scope?
The reticle appears small when zoomed out and large when zoomed in.
A one mil mark in your crosshairs, for example, will stay constant throughout the range of magnification.
TheMeopta Optika5is a prime example of a second focal plane scope.
What Is a Second Focal Plane Scope?
In other words, the reticle size never appears to change.
It is just as large zoomed out as it is zoomed in.
A reticle like this T3 fromRudolph Opticscan be used to estimate distances. On a first focal plane reticle, this can be done at any magnification. With a second focal plane reticle, this can only be done at maximum magnification.
Second focal plane scopes are the easier of the two types to manufacture.
The obvious upside is you could accurately engage your target at any magnification without making adjustments to the scope.
When zoomed out, the reticle may appear too small to be of much use.
The scope on this Springfield Waypoint is well suited for most hunting needs.
Likewise, when at maximum magnification, the edges of your reticle may be out of view.
Alternatively, a second focal plane scope maintains a single size of reticle throughout the magnification range.
Typically, this is at the maximum magnification.
On the other hand, the center of the crosshairs will always be on target regardless of the magnification.
Second focal plane scopes are easier to manufacture.
As a consequence, more companies especially newer ones seem to focus much of their manufacturing on SFP scopes.
First focal plane scopes tend to require additional engineering during the manufacturing process.
This can add time and money to the production of a FFP scope.
Consequently, fewer are on the market, and they tend to be more expensive.
First vs. Second: Which Is Better?
You might be asking yourself which of the two scope types is better.
When a game animal is spotted, the hunter can zoom in if there is time.
Many times a hunter will need to make a quick shot at low magnifications.
A SFP scope will often offer a better aiming point for the close shots.
For this reason, I equipped mySpringfield Waypointwith a 3-9xsecondfocal plane scope.
So, is a first focal plane scope better than a second focal plane scope?
Each shooter needs to determine his own needs and find an optic that fits those requirements.
Both kinds of scopes have their own sets of pros and cons.
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