First focal plane

[Timmeh]

Time for the stupid question portion of today's competition.

What is first focal plane on a scope? What does it effect or optimize (if that is even the way say it)? Is it for or effect longer range applications?

Cheers

Chris

[PrimaryArms]

http://www.vortexoptics.com/video/first_vs_second_focal_plane

[Soginator]

The above video pretty much sums it up. I would say it's mostly a preference thing, but I've noticed some of the more seasoned shooters swear by FFP. That being said, I personally prefer SFP. Assuming you are new to long distance shooting, which I'm guessing you are based on the question, it helps with the lower magnifications because the reticle is larger (since I'm assuming you'd have to make a bit of a trek to find somewhere 1000+ yards to shoot). Where are you located? I have both types of optics for you to see (one being Dimitri's favorite 4-14 308 scope) and another being a high end NF atacr in SFP.

Don't be afraid to ask questions, everyone starts from somewhere. Not to mention this hobby is extremely expensive. Better to get it right than to make a costly mistake.

[JMP]

I am one of the folks that swear by an FFP. The main advantage is that you can spot your hit with the reticle and make and adjustment by simplying dialing as the reticle measurements will always be true. Depending on the type of shooting you do, it's a large advantage if you are shooting a lot of variable magnifications and distances as you simply pick up the correction that is measured on the reticle without worrying about scale. If you shoot in places like the desert at very long distances, you will always be shooting at a different zoom as chances are the mirage in the scope may dictate your magnification power.

If you shoot at stationary targets at known distances, the SFP isn't nearly as much of a disadvantage, so it may be a very good way to get a better scope at a lower price since SFP will often be quite a bit cheaper than FFP.

You ought to describe the type of shooting you will be doing, including distance(s) and the characteristics of your rifle and chambering. Then, folks may be able to weigh in on merits of either design to best work for you. For me, I never see an advantage to SFP other than price.

[OpticsPlanet]

If you shoot at stationary targets at known distances, the SFP isn't nearly as much of a disadvantage, so it may be a very good way to get a better scope at a lower price since SFP will often be quite a bit cheaper than FFP.

Nicely put - it all comes down to the type of shooting, and FFP can be pricey.

Mark H.

[Whatisthis?]

http://www.vortexoptics.com/video/fi...nd_focal_plane

Very good explanation.

I am one of the folks that swear by an FFP. The main advantage is that you can spot your hit with the reticle and make and adjustment by simplying dialing as the reticle measurements will always be true. Depending on the type of shooting you do, it's a large advantage if you are shooting a lot of variable magnifications and distances as you simply pick up the correction that is measured on the reticle without worrying about scale. If you shoot in places like the desert at very long distances, you will always be shooting at a different zoom as chances are the mirage in the scope may dictate your magnification power.

If you shoot at stationary targets at known distances, the SFP isn't nearly as much of a disadvantage, so it may be a very good way to get a better scope at a lower price since SFP will often be quite a bit cheaper than FFP.

You ought to describe the type of shooting you will be doing, including distance(s) and the characteristics of your rifle and chambering. Then, folks may be able to weigh in on merits of either design to best work for you. For me, I never see an advantage to SFP other than price.

WONDERFULLY PUT! 100% agree.

Nicely put - it all comes down to the type of shooting, and FFP can be pricey.

Mark H.

This is VERY true too.

Lots of good information so far for you, OP.