If so, you should keep that in mind when buying a scope. This is further enhanced through the ten intensity levels of illumination with an off position between each. Weighing in at 1.42 lbs, its dimensions are 9.1 x 9.1 x 9.1-inches. For even less money than the Sniper ZT, you get a front focal plane scope that honestly offers features and construction on par with might higher-dollar scopes. It's only one feature of a scope that enables you to get the job done. Therefore, you benefit from a brighter image than normal single-coated lenses offer. 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. As the popularity of long-range shooting (generally over 500 yards) has increased, so has the need for optics that enable shooters to get on target at greater and greater ranges. It is Mil Rad adjustable with 0.1 Mil Rad click steps and has an adjustment range of 29 Mil Rad. Once youve decided that you want a first focal plane optic in general, and determine the price point and application is a good fit, the thing I look for next is the kind of reticle that it comes with. Hitting steel at 1000 yards plus is nothing for this long-ranging machine. Due to the fact the reticle size changes with magnification, those new to FFP reticles can find them initially challenging to use. Eye relief on this scope is also quite good at 4.5 inches. For instance, a super-tactical-looking scope might not look great on a walnut-stocked bolt-action hunting rifle, whereas something a little simpler in appearance will not only work just as well but also make a lot more visual sense with the rifle upon which it is mounted. This has less to do with FFP and SFP-specific designs, but it's worth knowing more about here. Having said that, practice and perseverance reap rewards. This will require an FFP reticle to really take advantage of ballistic data. With approximately 35 MILS of long-ranging elevation travel, a huge 35 mm main tube, and an FFP reticle, it's a shooter's complete scope to hit steel at ranges once unachievable. Our testers found the RZR Zero Stop feature of the Viper to be excellent. You do not pay anything extra and your purchase helps support our work. If your optics fail, the company will fix or replace your scope no matter what happens. FFP it is! A new player in the shooting optics industry, Athlon Optics offers some excellent products that are winning customers that would normally turn to names like Leupold. This ensures smooth, easy magnification changes no matter what conditions you are shooting in. 2. Whichever configuration is chosen, durability, reliability, and ease of use is yours during daylight as well as low-light conditions. There is a choice of reticles, and the one this review will concentrate on is the ACSS Raptor M2 version. Were reader-supported, which means we may earn a small part of the sale from links to any products or services on this site. This can lead to significant increases in target coverage at higher magnifications, leading to imprecise holds. The exit pupil comes in at 1mm, and the linear field of view at 100 yards is 105.8 feet. 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. Copyright 2023 American Firearms LLC. This configuration allows for QTA (Quick Target Acquisition) during close quarters shooting along with a MIL-DOT grid that provides accurate holdover points. The ZeroStop, PTL (Power Throw Lever), high power, and extremely large aperture all adds to its prowess out in the field. One thing that our testers werent crazy about was the eye relief of the Viper. XD elements ensure you have HD quality to view everything within the field of view with optimum color fidelity and sharp resolution and contrast. Are you interested in learning how to mil targets or estimate distances using your reticle? Click on the name to head to the product page, read reviews and check prices or skip ahead to the list of FFP scopes. The latter factor is particularly important when using heavy caliber ammo. Among first focal plane optics, some are also intended for precision shooting. This past week, the newest Ares series in 2.5-15x 50mm is supposed to have arrived. There are a lot of options out there when it comes to FFP scopes. What is more, you will have peace of mind purchase through the included Vortex lifetime warranty. The Nightforce SHV has been around for a while now. If further proof of its durability is needed, this comes through the fact it is fog proof and waterproof. Or how about reviews of the Best M4 Scopes, our Best 1000 Yard Scope Rifle Optic Reviews, the Best Scopes for 30 30 Lever Action Rifles, our Best 1-8x Scope reviews, our Best Slug Gun Scope Reviews, the Best Long Range Rifle Scopes under 1000 Dollars, or the Best Night Vision Scope for AR 15 you can buy. Pros and cons of this reticle preference? The red LED illumination feature is powered by an included CR2032 battery. You are buying into a scope made from 6061 aluminum that is fully fog, water, and shockproof. When it comes to actually shooting with the scope, the turrets work well and have a precision not found in less-expensive models. Arken Optics EP5 5-25X56 FFP MIL VPR Illuminated with Zero Stop - 34mm Are you going to be doing a lot of range shooting or competitive shooting? It should be said that this superb scope is really aimed at experienced long-range shooters and those into sniping. Free shipping for many products! This second offering from Vortex Optics jumps up the price scale but also offers enhanced quality and features. The reticle is a simple, non-illuminated mil-dot reticle with 1 mil dot increments. Things like aircraft-grade aluminum, an illuminated reticle, a sealed housing, and plenty of holdovers on the reticle or a mil-dot reticle can be indicators of a good product. While we didn't find a need to have an illuminated reticle, it would be nice to have the option. This scope has been purpose-built for tactical shooters, those into competition, and keen hunters. 8 Best Rifle Scopes Under $500 - Budget & Value Picks 1. Sponsored. Some first focal plane optics are clearly meant for forks putting together some kind of tactical rifle setup. What loyalists love about the brand is that they're extremists. This will give around 500 hours of use. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. It is constructed using 6063 aircraft-grade aluminum and is completely water, fog, and shockproof. Arken Optics SH4 6-24X50 GEN2 FFP MIL VPR Illuminated with Zero Stop At the lower end of the price range, youll get optics with decent glass that aid you in shooting at long ranges in well-lit conditions, but youre unlikely to find any especially fancy features or tactical styling here. Worth considering! Both focal plane reticles illuminate red. Often scopes in the middle price range will have the right mix of quality and cost. We may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links. Other things to think about are the actual components of the scope itself. Regardless of whether your target is 100 yards, 1,000 yards, or anywhere in between, it still provides excellent accuracy assistance. This provides enhanced visibility during those all-important dawn, dusk, or low-light shooting periods. But, if that's the only complaint we have (if you can call that a complaint), you know it's a buy we highly recommend. Yes, there is a difference in clarity, but not much. It offers dual LED red/green illumination to suit the conditions you are shooting in. It is night vision compatible when on its lowest setting and daylight bright on its highest setting. Arken Optics Scope EP-5 5-25x56 FFP MIL VPR Reticle Combo Pack 34mm Rigid Mount. This means the second focal plane scopes reticles are a fixed size they will not adjust as you dial up or down the magnification. Free shipping for many products! Trijicon are renowned for the quality glass used in their scope manufacture. From there, it gives the ability to dial back with a precise, sharp stop exactly at your zero mark. . Also, our testers did note that this scope may not hold up as well as more proven brands over time due to the general build quality. Everything from the matte black finish to the turrets is engineered with the shooter in mind. This is practically unheard of for under 500 bucks. Shooters can opt for variable magnification of 2-10x, 3-15x, and 5-25x. We may earn a commission on purchases from a link. There are, however, a few other things to consider. In total, the Primary Arms SLx is a budget buy given its low price point to acquire a FFP scope. Made in Japan, it has a durable hardcoat anodized black finish and is waterproof as well as shock and fog-resistant. Arken Optics SH4 6-24X50 GEN2 FFP MIL VPR with Zero Stop - 34mm Tube Its overkill just for hunting with, but its your prerogative. Extra-low dispersion glass and fully multi-coated lenses transmit a crisp, bright sight picture. We say almost because the Argos does it. Sightron S-TAC 3-16x42mm Rifle Scope Zero Stop - OpticsPlanet Overall, with all the different reticles Primary Arms generates, the simple mil dot has been a long-lasting option. This becomes even more important for those who go on extended shooting sessions. 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. Exposed tactical-style turrets are easy to access and simple to use under any field conditions. Our testers reported no problems, but its unclear how much time youll need to spend re-calibrating the zero on the Monstrum over time. In comparison with scopes at a similar price point, the RS.4 has a leg-up or two in quality which brings more to the table in value. Their Argos Gen II BTR model is a point in case. Once zero is yours, the finger adjustable turrets can easily be reset to Zero. Thankfully, optic prices have been coming down for the past few years. The Athlon scope even has a zero stop that gets you back to your original zero with a mere twist in micro seconds. Quality glass is used during construction, and the lenses have been Hi-Lume Multi-Coated to provide clarity of image view. Not only is the EBR-2C MOA reticle with organized hashmarks in the front focal plane, it has also been glass-etched. The extra-wide field of view available allows for maximum situational awareness. Parallax is 15 yards to infinity, and the eye relief ranges between 3.14- and 3.22-inches. The single piece, 30mm main tube comes with strong o-ring seals and is nitrogen purged. Then there is the quality extra-low dispersion glass. Coming in black with a matte finish, the scope has a length of 14.1-inches and weighs in at 30.3 ounces. This demo site is only for demonstration purposes. If you want FFP for a steal of a price, you're lucky Vortex has the scope to fit the bill. However, elevation tracks true and are tactile enough for most target shooters even out to 500 yards. Set it up for prone position, long-range shooting, or take your long-shots to the hunt and extend your effective range. Confidence will also be given through the easy access and highly effective true zero click stop adjustment knobs. In this "best FFp scopes comparison" we'll show you some of the best FFP scopes available in the market today. It is Mil Rad adjustable with 0.1 Mil Rad clicks, and the adjustment range is 17.5 Mil Rad. From there, you can go for an EBR-2C (MRAD) or EBR-2C (MOA) reticle. Simply use the easy access push button controls to get a clear target shot. High-quality FFP scopes come with special coatings that work to increase light transmission. 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. DISCOVERYOPT HD 5-30x56 FFP First Focal Plane (FFP) with Red Illuminated Reticle and Parallax Adjustment, Zero Stop Rifle Scope Brand: Discovery Optics 1 rating Currently unavailable. The downside? As for battery life, this is 39 hours when using red and 94 hours when using green illumination. SAVE 10% ON YOUR ORDER TODAY! The cost savings must be seen somewhere, right? If you're in thick brush or it's rapidly approaching lowlight hours where you need to sit in lower magnification ranges, cross hairs can be difficult to see as they may be too thin and small. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Discovery Scope 4-16ED FFP NONE IR WITH HOYA JAPANESE LENSES at the best online prices at eBay! 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. Just look at its front focal plane reticle that's glass-etched in place. This is one tacti-cool rig that any shooter would be proud to be seen with. This is particularly the case for longer range and more difficult shots. Monstrum G2 FFP Scope: Best Affordable Ffp Scope. Athlon Argos BTR 6-24x50mm I knew nothing of Athlon Optics before one of my friends purchased the scope seen here. Best First Focal Plane (FFP) Scopes | American Firearms The ATACR scope is heavy. 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. Switch right out to the maximum 8x magnification, and the full benefits of the reticle are yours. Turret adjustments are in 0.1 mil clicks. Youll have to buy those separately. It is Mil Rad adjustable with click values of 0.1 Mil Rad steps. View. Use will increase the chances of taking down prairie predators, such as those hard to bag Elk and any other large game you may encounter. 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. Advertisement Kestrel Ballistics You can have a T-MOA, TMR, CCH, Impact-29 MOA, Impact-32 MOA, and an Impact-60 MOA. Its popularity shows why many hunters place it in their best first focal plane (FFP) scopes list. The RS.1 is a rifle scope that every shooter, tactical or hunter, can get behind. The company makes excellent products and the VX-3i LRP (Long Range Precision) is no exception. Lens Cleaning Cloth. Also, as you zoom in your overall field of view decreases as well, so a scope that might need to be used at close range or to track game should also have a fairly low base magnification so that you have the option to use it as a spotting scope as well. It has been designed for anyone looking to get into PRS (Precision Rifle Series) competition or hunting over longer distances. Since the reticle is itself magnified, you can use precise bullet drop marking found on some of these reticles with a lot more detail than would be possible without magnification. If theres an FFP scope you want for long-range use, get on board the Maven bandwagon. We'll find any and every excuse to legitimize pulling the trigger on buying an FFP rifle scope. There are, however, plenty of great options out there and we have pulled together a list of the best FFP scopes for the money. Keen hunters know just how important ease of scope adjustment is during those crucial hunting sessions. First off, FFP stands for First Focal Plane or Front Focal Plane. This allows for the reticle itself to be magnified as you adjust the magnification on a variable scope. It simply means the reticle assembly is physically located in front of the magnifying assembly in the rifle scope. Below is my list of the best first focal plane scopes under for 2022. So, Which is The Very Best of The Best First Focal Plane (FFP) Scopes? Such fine adjustments might not be wanted, or necessary, on rifles that are meant to shoot at medium ranges, but for folks who are putting together a rifle for precision shooting, especially a bolt action that will be good out to 1000 or more meters, then having that level of precision is a must-have for the most demanding of hunters and competition shooters. From the outset, decide on a sensible upper price limit of what you are prepared to pay. Zero Stop: No; Lens coatings: Fully multi-coated . Athlon provides this through their advanced, fully multi-coated lenses. Being illuminated means precise aiming under low-light conditions is yours. A further benefit not to be dismissed comes during low-light shooting sessions. In terms of weight, it will add an acceptable 25.6 ounces to your weapon. Shooters have a choice of MOA or MRAD models to suit their style. Some reported they would have liked to see the eye relief be a little longer. 8 Best Rifle Scopes Under 500: A Complete Buying Guide - Shooting Mystery Athlon is a welcome brand to many shooters who need high quality without being ripped off in the process. Youll get max accuracy as it tracks excellently proven through my field testing. The VX-3i LRP is compact and easy to use. A pinch-and-turn lock mechanism and a fully adjustable zero stop help prevent inadvertent adjustments and ensure accurate return to zero. With its front focal plane, you can focus on the target without any distractions. www.rokslide.com The company uses the best materials and provides advanced features at a price that most shooters can afford. There is a donut hole in the long-range, exposed turret scope market. 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 This is helpful if you have any sighting issues. One major gripe about this particular scope is the mount. It's no wonder NightForce stands at the top. The exit pupil is between 3.3-11.2mm, while linear field of view at 100 yards comes in between 27.2 and 7.85 feet. The majority of shooters will initially settle for short to mid-range targeting, and that really does make sense. Perhaps you can relate. The Diamondback Tactical family of scopes is. Free shipping. This optic is highly robust and comes with specially designed mechanical systems on both the control and erector system. They provide a wide variety of scopes for military, LE (Law Enforcement), and civilian use. Sightron SIII Long Range 10-50x60mm Zero Stop Rifle Scope $1,499.99 (Save 30%) $1,049.99 Instant Savings. It also has an illuminated center grid to provide fast target acquisition during low light or when the reticle is in the lower power range. Many FFP reticles are laser-etched onto glass further adding to the expensive costs of a scope. The difference in models relates to non- and illuminated options with a wide reticle choice. These days, even affordable, basic optics are made with reasonably good quality, so dont turn your nose up at cheaper options! They both feature modified Christmas-tree designs with red LED illumination and abundant (and really smart) windage and holdover references. Again, regardless of the reticle chosen, you will benefit from high functionality, intuitive use, and detailed hold points. 3-inch Sunshade. With this in mind, it features tactile and audible clicks. A final FFP scope benefit worthy of mention comes through its effectiveness at virtually any range. $1099 MSRP Let me know if you know of any cheaper. Our . With a 30mm tube, you have 17.5 mils in elevation and windage travel. I list the best choices in terms of value, performance, design, and cost. 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. This can be a problem depending on your mounting configuration and accessory set-up. It's a high-end feature that's hard to come by. The result is sure to please avid hunters. You are getting a scope that is honed from quality aluminum. The included fast-focus eyepiece complements reticle use to allow fast, easy target focusing. Conversely, an SFP reticle appears the same size regardless of the magnification you have it set on. One of the reasons for the good image quality is . DISCOVERYOPT HD 5-30x56 FFP First Focal Plane (FFP) with Red Thanks to the multi-coated ED optics, quality imaging is yours in any environment or light conditions. . Features: Extra-Low Dispersion Glass, FFP, Advanced Fully Multi-Coated, True Zero Stop, Locking Windage Turret, Illuminated Reticle, 34mm Tube, 10MIL/25MOA Travel-Per-Rotation Turrets. The scope offers 6-2450 magnification, which is more than enough for most shooters. Exit pupil is 0.46- to 0.14-inches while linear field of view at 100 yards is between 105.8 and 13.2 feet. But, with price points everywhere in between, it does mean there is an FFP scope out there for you. Optic Review: Atibal Apex 4-1444 FFP Rifle Scope The side adjustable parallax feature allows instantaneous adjustments while allowing you to keep your shooting position. Edge-to-edge clarity is constant and is further enhanced by a 5:1 zoom ratio. The advanced reticle design also promotes set and forget zeroing to make life easy. If you are in this category, then I am with you all the way! The included quality components and features mean mid to long-range accuracy is assured. MSRP: $1,299 for the 3-1850 or $1,399 for the 5-3056 34 mm tube, MOA & MIL reticles, dual illumination, ED Japanese glass. It will work for hunters and it will work for long-distance range shooting or competition shooting. From there, the adjustability of the optic in terms of zoom is something that we consider carefully. Dimensions are 15.67 x 2.54 x 2.54-inches, and it weighs in at 30 ounces. Additionally, youll be able to better make out differences, for instance, between the 500m and 600m marks on your reticles bullet drop compensator much easier. FFP &a Zero stop under $1000? - Long Range Hunting Forum Lightweight scope that dials with zero stop, does it exist? These scopes are fantastic optics for long-range rifle enthusiasts, and theyve become far more popular in recent years. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for DISCOVERY HD 4-24X50SFIR FFP Zero Stop Hunting Rifle Scope for .50BMG Air Gun at the best online prices at eBay! With the popularity of these scopes, you dont need to aim for something that costs as much as a new riding lawnmower to get a high-quality scope. Picture Information. For under 1000, this FFP scope is sporting premium features that we're unable to find anywhere else. Are you a fan of long-range shooting? With that in mind, variable magnification of between 3-9x fits the bill. However, illumination isn't a determinant of reticle quality, its assembly, or accuracy. An added bonus is the much-lauded precision-glide erector system. 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. Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II Leveled and Zeroed. You'll need that steadiness a bipod can provide when you have extreme 5-25x power to get up and personal with. A selection of Best First Focal Plane (FFP) Scopes would not be complete without including a Leupold model. 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 . FREE SHIPPING on Sig Sauer TANGO-DMR 3-18x44mm MOA Milling 2.0 Illum 1/4MOA FFP Riflescope w/Side Focus SOTD63111 . If you've caught the highly contagious long-range shooting bug, an FFP reticle might be for you.