They will also have peace of mind thanks to the VIP Vortex lifetime warranty. Editor's Choice: Leica PRS 5-30x56i Leica PRS 5-30x56i $2,699 Leica This is the world-class riflescope that we knew Leica was capable of delivering American shooters. The most basic, and usually cheapest, kind of first focal plane scopes youll likely find have adjustments for windage, elevation, and magnification, but not much else. The fact is there is a huge choice out there. With this in mind, it features tactile and audible clicks. Keep in mind your style of shooting or hunting when deciding which type would be best for your needs. However, elevation tracks true and are tactile enough for most target shooters even out to 500 yards. Every hunter is familiar with Vortex and especially their Diamondback line of optics. The majority of shooters will initially settle for short to mid-range targeting, and that really does make sense. Shooters have a choice of MOA or MRAD models to suit their style. Burris Signature HD Riflescope Series: Award-Winning Optics Advertisement Athlon has made a name for itself by offering FFP mil reticle scopes with mil adjustments, like this Argos BTR 6-24x50mm, at very reasonable prices. The reticle is a simple, non-illuminated mil-dot reticle with 1 mil dot increments. Other things to think about are the actual components of the scope itself. If theres an FFP scope you want for long-range use, get on board the Maven bandwagon. This scope is going on a rig where you're in a prone position and a bipod is holding you steady anyway. This ensures smooth, easy magnification changes no matter what conditions you are shooting in. When it comes to actually shooting with the scope, the turrets work well and have a precision not found in less-expensive models. Picture Information. People pick up first focal plane optics to increase their ability to shoot at longer ranges without re-zeroing the rifle for different distances. Probably the best thing about this system is that the zero stop collar has a line on . Vortex offers their Diamondback Tactical scope in two variable magnification sizes. Lens Cleaning Cloth. The scope features a glass etched reticle with illumination in both red or green. It is this coating that affects light transmission. So, Which is The Very Best of The Best First Focal Plane (FFP) Scopes? While any of the scopes on this list will serve most shooters well, theres no denying that Vortex Optics Viper PST is the best front focal plane scope that you can buy. No problem, illuminating the reticle could not be easier. If youre shooting over 500 yards (and definitely 800 yards), failing to take windage and bullet-drop into account will only result in inaccurate holds, missed shots, and failed hunting trips. Though its mostly a stylistic choice, for example being able to get a scope thats flat-dark-earth in color, some of the more tactical options take into account worse operating conditions and thus include things like an illuminated reticle to make it more possible to shoot in poorer lighting conditions than are possible with an unlit reticle. Both can be easily setup for zero stop elevation. While we didn't find a need to have an illuminated reticle, it would be nice to have the option. Range: 36 MIL Best Precision Hunting Scope: Zeiss LRP S5 3-1850 Most Versatile Hunting Scope: Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-1040 Best Budget Scope: Hawke Vantage 30 WA IR 2.5-1050 Best Crossover Scope: Vortex Razor HD LHT 4.5-2250 Best LPVO: EOTech Vudu 1-1028 Best Budget Precision Rimfire Rifle Scope: Athlon Midas HMR 2.5-1550 Every extra ounce you carry while out and about will tell. The alternative to an FFP scope, a second focal plane scope (SFP), places the reticle closer to the shooters eye and on the near side of the magnification. When you're trying to save a buck without compromising on quality, Athlon gets it done. Check out the lens coating of each scope you are looking at. Athlon is a welcome brand to many shooters who need high quality without being ripped off in the process. Exit pupil runs between 2.5 and 12mm, and linear field of view at 100 yards is between 5.5 and 26 feet. The scope is waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof, and our testers experience with Leupold products made it clear that this scope will withstand the beating of a multi-day backwoods hunt with ease. Shooters will benefit from a quality eyepiece featuring enhanced engraving as well as two trademark features an integrated Power Throw Lever (PTL) and an XtremeSpeed thread to allow rapid diopter adjustment. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm MOA Riflescope - 13 Models - Most Versatile First Focal Plane (FFP) Scope NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm F1 ZeroStop Riflescope - 6 Models - Best Premium First Focal Plane (FFP) Scope EOTech Vudu 1-624 FFP Precision Riflescope - 7 Models - Best 3 Gun Competition First Focal Plane (FFP) Scope Shooters get between 5 and 25x variable magnification, a 56mm objective lens, and a 1.34-inch (34mm) main tube. This demo site is only for demonstration purposes. The included capped or zero stop adjusters also ensure no accidental shift. It comes with extras such as dual illumination (red/green), glass-etched reticle, zero stop, and exposed turrets. Our testers found this scope to be an excellent value for the money, but its not the least expensive option showcased here. While cost is certainly a consideration, shooters can rest assured they are paying for quality. What does this mean for you? This wouldn't mean much if it wasn't for the XD elements and HD glass quality you get with this scope. You can then add Leupolds renowned Twilight Max HD Light System. The reticle itself offers plenty of holdovers for most shooters. The Mark 5HD series of quality optics is a perfect example. This means that when using an FFP reticle as you zoom in on your target, the reticle becomes larger. FFP scopes with high power are best suited for those shooting long-range distances. Because the lens magnifies the reticle throughout the scopes entire magnification range, things like bullet drop compensators work as you change the magnification. About this item Built for long-distance shooting, magnification varies between 4x and 20x; it has a 30mm main tube diameter and a quality 50mm objective lens. Rex does a side by side comparison of the new Arken EP5 5-25X56 FFP MIL VPR Reticle with Zero Stop - 34mm Tube against the Primary arms Pox 6-30x56, the Stei. The cost savings must be seen somewhere, right? How to use the Zero Stop and Zero Reset feature on Riton Optics riflescopes. Then comes the easy access exposed tactical turrets and side parallax knob. This factor allows shooters to keep estimated windage and elevation holdover points accurate regardless of the level of magnification. The Mark 5HD is one of Leupold's serious beasts of a machine. To seal the deal, you will find that customer service is very responsive, and peace of mind is yours through the Vortex VIP Lifetime Warranty. The Athlon scope even has a zero stop that gets you back to your original zero with a mere twist in micro seconds. The included EOTech Red LED illuminated Speed Ring reticle is powered by an included CR2032 battery. Are you going to be doing a lot of range shooting or competitive shooting? Athlon provides this through their advanced, fully multi-coated lenses. First off, FFP stands for First Focal Plane or Front Focal Plane. Check Price. Learn from our expert Jerimiah Alexander to ensure the best zero while shooting.. Often scopes in the middle price range will have the right mix of quality and cost. It provides automatic ranging and BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation), moving target leads, a center chevron aim point for precision, and wind holds at both 5- and 10-mph. Check Price. The Ares ETR First Focal Plane rifle scope is loaded with features that will allow you to take your long range shooting to another level. We'll answer your reticle questions here and guide you towards the best scope to mount your rig! 34 mm tube, MOA & MIL reticles, dual illumination, ED Japanese glass. Product Info for Sightron S-TAC 3-16x42mm Rifle Scope Zero Stop. Move to higher power and excellent accuracy along with quality image resolution is yours. This scope makers name might not be as well known as Vortex or some of the other options here, but the product is very good for the price. The feature you need is an FFP reticle. While there are tons of cheap optics available within your price range, finding the gems within the junk is the trick to a good buy and making the most out of your budget. 40 mm mount rings for Picatinny Rail. This will require an FFP reticle to really take advantage of ballistic data. Vortex has equipped this FFP scope with a glass-etched reticle. It also eliminates up to 90% more glare than other scopes offer. It should also be remembered that in the main, the larger your objective lens, the heavier the overall your scope will be. Best Overall: Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II Best Value: Sniper ZT Most Affordable: Monstrum G2 Best Build Quality: Leupold VX-3i LRP Easiest to Use: Athlon Optics Ares BTR FFP Scope Reviews 1. As for battery life, this is 39 hours when using red and 94 hours when using green illumination. Burris is another quality scope manufacturer, and this Veracity model will not disappoint. Trijicon are renowned for the quality glass used in their scope manufacture. It offers 120 MOA or 35 MRAD of total elevation adjustment and 80 MOA or 24 MRAD of windage adjustment. The difference in models relates to non- and illuminated options with a wide reticle choice. Ease of access to this function means it can be achieved even when shooting in pitch-darkness. In total, the Primary Arms SLx is a budget buy given its low price point to acquire a FFP scope. Its overkill just for hunting with, but its your prerogative. American Firearms was established by firearm fans for firearm fans as a modern-day take on all things that go BOOM. If so, then you need to start thinking about first focal plane (FFP) rife scopes. Lightweight, 70 MOA windage and 100 MOA of elevation travel, Japanese glass. The ATACR scope is heavy. The scratch-resistant lenses will effectively protect the glass for years to come. It's not cheap nor is it for the faint of heart shooter. Athlon Optics, Argos BTR, Riflescope Some rifle owners found Athlon Optics Argos BTR comparable to Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II and Primary Arms 4 to 1444 in terms of features. High quality coatings such as the Wide Band Fully Multicoated and Xtra Protective Coatings explain why image quality is as crystal clear as it can get. Fahrenheit. CR2032 Battery. That being the case, there are variable magnification FFP scopes just waiting to be part of your armory! XD elements ensure you have HD quality to view everything within the field of view with optimum color fidelity and sharp resolution and contrast. As well as an included lens shade and lens covers, this top-quality optic comes backed by Leupolds full lifetime guarantee. Extra-low dispersion glass and fully multi-coated lenses transmit a crisp, bright sight picture. Advertisement Kestrel Ballistics The explosion in quality lens technology in recent years has lead to a tremendous number of these scopes hitting the market which can make choosing the right option a little daunting. SFP scopes have reticles that are towards the back of the scope. Coming from Athlons Argos family of scopes, you have a variety of configurations to choose from. You can see more of the crosshairs to determine accurate holdover and wind-drift points during any stage of the power range. It will work for hunters and it will work for long-distance range shooting or competition shooting. . This highly effective system gives an extra 30 minutes of shooting light at the beginning and end of the day. There are, however, plenty of great options out there and we have pulled together a list of the best FFP scopes for the money. As is typical for many FFP scopes in the affordable end of the price range, it lacks a zero stop. This becomes even more important for those who go on extended shooting sessions. To cater to the high demand of shooters who want long-range features in a convenient-to-hunt-with scope, the Diamondback Tactical fits the bill. Variable magnification comes in between 4-14x, it has a 30mm main tube, and the objective lens diameter is 44mm. How would we know? The exit pupil comes in at 1mm, and the linear field of view at 100 yards is 105.8 feet. Conversely, an SFP reticle appears the same size regardless of the magnification you have it set on. 3. This model from Primary Arms has to be one of the best value first focal plane scopes available for the price offered. It's almost ridiculous how affordable this scope is. There are a lot of options out there when it comes to FFP scopes. Manufacturer, quality of build, robustness, magnification, and price immediately spring to mind. 34 mm tube, wide 120 MOA elevation and 80 MOA windage adjustment travel, MOAR reticle. With the Primary Arms SLx, it seems the windage turret has a little bit of play and doesnt quite seem as tactile as the elevation turret. This is further enhanced by easy access LED brightness settings that have an off position between each setting level. You can certainly swap the rings for lower-profile options to get the scope positioned to you needs, and at this price point its not a shocking shortcoming, but worth noting if youre super budget focused. With this ability to use the bullet drop compensator or other reticle features at differing magnifications also comes a general increase in precision. Ruggedized features help, but a careful owner is the best safety feature of all. Configuration: 3-1850 and 5-3056; Reticle Options: Both scopes are available in either Mil or MOA versions. That SIIISS624x50LRFFP/MH was one of the sub $1K, ffp, mil/mil scopes I reviewed last year. The options have grown for the sub-$1000 and the $1500-plus categories, but it's a little thin in between those two price points. For an explanation on the differences between the two, check out our Reticle Guide here. The included fast-focus eyepiece is also highly effective when it comes to fast, easy reticle focusing. Worthy of praise? This quality feature ensures that hunters benefit from a wide FOV (Field Of View). Turret adjustments are in 0.1 mil clicks. FFP reticles aren't inherently better than SFP reticles. . This versatility ensures close, mid, and long-range shot accuracy. 5. If you're intrigued, you may want to muse over our Reticle Guide and then mosey over to our MIL Vs MOA discussion. Monstrum G2 FFP Scope: Best Affordable Ffp Scope. Thanks in advance. MSRP: $1,299 for the 3-1850 or $1,399 for the 5-3056 Because crisp, clear, and vivid images are what you are after, this should be seen as a 2-way necessity. This is when we proudly introduce the Athlon Argos that is equipped to get you ready for precision shooting at the range or in competition. Turrets are superbly crisp and tactile. The eye relief on the 2-1032 version of the Viper is listed as 3.2 inches, which is a good middle-ground that will work for many shooters. Those looking to buy one of the best scopes in the first focal plane currently available have a very wide choice. The S-TAC 3-16x42 FFP employs an illuminated Mil-Hash reticle for intermediate range applications where a smaller optic is needed. Leupold is one of those names in the optics world that almost every shooter knows and respects. This scope has been built to last. If you are in this category, then I am with you all the way! The Helos at under $600 is comparable to much more expensive scopes, as is the Argos BTR. Higher magnifications do help with greater precision, but the optics with the highest zoom levels are also often the most expensive. You must look at other features that would be appropriate for your type of shooting. When dialing in for bullet drop and wind compensation, shooters will benefit from laser-etched turrets, adjustable parallax, and the Vortex RZR zero stop feature. However, at low power, it's difficult to see crosshairs as they may be too small and thin. Made in Japan, it has a durable hardcoat anodized black finish and is waterproof as well as shock and fog-resistant. Close X. Measuring just 10.63-inches in length, 2.6-inches in width, and 2.1-inches in height, it weighs in at only 19.75 ounces. Glass-etched reticles are still largely a tactical feature, but like FFP reticles, they're being adopted into high-end hunting scopes too. But, to help you narrow down what qualities you want at the top end of your priorities when it comes to FFP reticles, here's what you need to keep in mind. Finally, some optics have been designed to be super rugged. Wrench T-15 for 40 mm mount rings. This is a common feature among all first focal plane optics, and if thats the kind of thing you value in a rifle scope, then this category of optics is what youre looking for. This means you need equipment that is robust and durable to match. Magnification: 4-16X44 mm. In an FFP scope, the reticle must be placed in front of the magnification lens making it closer to the objective lens (the lens which transmits light to the eyepiece). The included fast-focus eyepiece complements reticle use to allow fast, easy target focusing. 2. The capped turrets offer 30 MOA to either side of optical center. Any shooter looking for a premium-grade recon optic will appreciate this model. Edge-to-edge clarity is constant and is further enhanced by a 5:1 zoom ratio. Those AR-platform or bolt-action rifle enthusiasts into either (or both) of these shooting disciplines are in the right place. We got our hands on one to physically test out in the field. Buy Arken Optics SH4 6-24X50 GEN2 FFP MIL VPR with Zero Stop - 34mm Tube: GunBroker is the largest seller of Gun Scopes Scopes, Sights & Optics All: 973455855 . The scope offers high definition glass that our testers found to have excellent clarity. Athlon doesnt include these with the scope, and our testers found this to be a pain point given the price. From there, you can go for an EBR-2C (MRAD) or EBR-2C (MOA) reticle. Overall, with all the different reticles Primary Arms generates, the simple mil dot has been a long-lasting option. The red LED illumination feature is powered by an included CR2032 battery. This FFP scope gives shooters top-quality materials, build quality, and premium features at a fair price. Compact was just mentioned, and that is what it is. We will go so far as to say, for the price, it's the best money you'll ever spend if you want quality and performance for the field without breaking a financial sweat. Our . Trijicon has a very proud name in the world of optics. The latest Burris Veracity scope release also includes a new five times zoom system. Opt in to receive text messages Please text STOP to decline or UNSTOP to opt-in to text messaging services Guaranteed In Stock! With up to 25x power, you can crank it up and use the Tremor 3 by Horus reticle to get dead-on. They provide a wide variety of scopes for military, LE (Law Enforcement), and civilian use. The illuminated reticle provides clear aiming points to ensure fast target engagement and allows for Both eyes open shooting. It will function in temperatures of between -20 and +140 deg. Along with one of the best premium FFP scopes currently available, you also get a variety of extras. While this scope can easily take out varmints, big game, and predators from distances that just might be controversial to some, you'll find it better suited for prone position shooting for competition and/or military/law enforcement use. Some reported they would have liked to see the eye relief be a little longer. Conversely, crosshairs will decrease in size as you lower the power range. Theres an old shooter adage that essentially says you should spend as much on the optics as you did on the gun. Choose either 4 to 16x or 6 to 24x. It has to be seen as one of the best performing first focal plane scopes currently available in this price bracket. Leupold certainly does not stand still when it comes to offering customers choice. Click values come in either .250 MOA, or .1 MRAD steps, and parallax adjustment ranges from 45 yards to infinity. When you're stuck with a tight budget you might think your options are limited. Not only will that give you peace of mind, but it will also narrow down your choice to that upper price point. Best 1000 yard scope 1. Get discounts from top brands and our latest reviews! If further proof of its durability is needed, this comes through the fact it is fog proof and waterproof. It is Mil Rad adjustable with 0.1 Mil Rad click steps and has an adjustment range of 29 Mil Rad. Our testers found the scope to be very easy to mount and sight in. Thanks for your feedback, will have to check it out! Sightron Scope SIII 6-24x50 Lr Moa Zero Stop 30mm Sf Matte (1) $1,249.99 (Save 30%) $879.99 Free 2 Day Shipping. With its max of 15x magnification, 30 mm tube, and 100 MOA of elevation travel, it's still a very attractive and impressive scope, and it all helps to keep weight down. Its price is justified due to the fact that its quality is so high. Zooming out does the opposite; the reticle will appear smaller. Using top-quality glass, this riflescope gives sharp, crisp imaging throughout the magnification range. Just look at its front focal plane reticle that's glass-etched in place. When it comes to comparing this system with SFP (second focal plane) or Rear Focal Plane reticles, it's a matter of preference. We may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links. The result is sure to please avid hunters. While it may not matter in terms of performance, I do think that the looks of a firearm and optic combination are worth thinking about if there are different options and youre already spending this much money on a scope. You can holdoff for elevation and wind at any power range since your crosshair marks will be usable as subtension consistently remains unchanged. Top 10 Best First Focal Plane (FFP) Scopes In 2023 Reviews, 1Argos BTR Gen II 6-24x50mm MRAD Riflescopes From Athlon Optics Model: 214063 Best PRS First Focal Plane (FFP) Scope, 2The Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescopes From Vortex Optics Best Affordable First Focal Plane (FFP) Scope, 3SLx3.5 4-14X44mm FFP Rifle Scope With Illuminated R-Grid 2B Reticle From Primary Arms Model: 610090 Best Budget First Focal Plane (FFP) Scope, 4The Viper PST Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes From Vortex Optics Best All-round First Focal Plane (FFP) Scope, 5Trijicon Credo 1-8x28mm FFP Riflescope Model: 2900032 Best Both Eyes Open First Focal Plane (FFP) Scope, 6Burris Veracity 4-20x50mm Riflescope with Ballistic E1 FFP Reticle Model No. While the purchase price is a serious consideration, this scope offers good value to keen, regular hunters. This makes accounting for things like bullet drop or wind interference over long distances much easier. The Monstrum Tactical G2 is another fantastic option if youre looking for a scope thats an excellent value. Adding to its value is the additional technology Vortex puts into the glass and image quality. Maven RS.4 5-30x56 FFP - Best Under $2000 Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25X50 FFP EBR-2C MRAD - Best FFP Scope Under $1500 Maven RS.1 2.5-15X44 - Best FFP Scope for Hunting Athlon Ares BTR 4.5-27X50 - Best FFP Scope Under $1000 Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24X50 - Best FFP Scope Under $500 Athlon Argos BTR 6-24X50 - Best FFP Scope for the Money It's not as difficult as you may think to wrap your head around FFP scopes. Coming with variable magnification of between 1 and 6x, it has a 30mm main tube diameter and a 24mm objective lens. Athlon Argos BTR 6-24x50mm I knew nothing of Athlon Optics before one of my friends purchased the scope seen here. The SHR (Simplified Holdover Reticle) reticle is in the FFP that is easy to incorporate and see at all magnification levels. Were reader-supported, which means we may earn a small part of the sale from links to any products or services on this site. The scope offers 6-2450 magnification, which is more than enough for most shooters. It's no wonder ATACR scopes are expensive, no detail left overlooked, and no expense spared. Both focal plane reticles illuminate red. . Shooters can opt for variable magnification of 2-10x, 3-15x, and 5-25x. You got it. With its magnification range above 10x, it features a side focus and a fast focus eyepiece for maximum reticle sharpness for your vision. It's difficult to ever justify spending more on your rig when you can complete it with a high-power, long-ranging scope with high-end features to boot for under 500 bucks. The way the reticle is attached to the glass is less important than the placement of FFP reticles inside the scope tube, especially for high magnification or long-ranging scopes. Set it up for prone position, long-range shooting, or take your long-shots to the hunt and extend your effective range. Some shooters like the be a little closer, while others prefer more distance between their eye and the scope. He is the owner of Brave Defender Training Group LLC, providing advanced firearms and tactical training. As would be expected from a premium riflescope, this NightForce ATACR model comes with some excellent features. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is one tacti-cool rig that any shooter would be proud to be seen with. For tactical rifles, then, we prefer something with a beefer reticle, preferably one that is illuminated, to give the greatest flexibility when shooting in poor light conditions. The exit pupil is 2.2mm, and eye relief varies between 3.6- and 3.8-inches. Then there is the quality extra-low dispersion glass. Worth considering! The illumination is also variable, so you can choose from a variety of settings to further dial in your preferences. Not only is the APMR in the FFP, it's also illuminated and glass-etched! Many FFP reticles are laser-etched onto glass further adding to the expensive costs of a scope. Quality glass is a must, but that needs pairing with quality lens coating. The super fine APMR FFP IR MIL reticle is glass etched. Thanks to the multi-coated ED optics, quality imaging is yours in any environment or light conditions.