Mil Dot math question

[shmeddie]

I know the mil dot formula for estimating distance with a known target size is pretty straight forward. I've been practicing using the formula using a simulator with a 10x scope. For xmas I know I am getting a fixed 6x posp scope with the mil dot recticle. Will the equation [(target size(yrds)x1000)/mils= distance to target(yrds)] change if i'm using a 6x magnification?

[longshot338]

The equation you would use is the same. The difference will be the actual size of the mildot in the scope. With your fixed 6x scope, the mil dots will be calibrated for that magnification.
FYI...on most variable power scopes, accurate mil readings are only achieved at one specific magnification. This is determined by which focal plane in the scope the reticle is located.

[rabagley]

FYI...on most variable power scopes, accurate mil readings are only achieved at one specific magnification. This is determined by which focal plane in the scope the reticle is located.

Well, if the reticle is in the first focal plane (FFP) then the reticle will scale with magnification (these are more expensive). If the reticle is in the second focal plane (SFP) then the reticle stays the same size at all magnifications and is only really a mil-dot reticle at one magnication (these are "normal" scopes). Usually there will be a detent or it's the scope's maximum magnification so that you can reliably find it.