When choosing a rifle scope, one of the most important decisions is whether to go FFP (First Focal Plane) or SFP (Second Focal Plane). Both types may look identical, but they behave very differently once you start zooming and shooting.
Your choice affects how the reticle behaves, how you hold for distance, and how accurate your adjustments are. Here’s the breakdown so you can pick confidently.
What Is an FFP Scope?In a First Focal Plane (FFP) scope, the reticle sits in front of the magnification lens. As you change magnification, the reticle size changes along with the target image.
- Main Benefit: Holdover marks and hash lines stay true at every magnification.
- Best for: Long-range, tactical/PRS, variable-distance target work.
- Considerations: Reticle can look small at low power and thicker at high power; usually costs more.
In a Second Focal Plane (SFP) scope, the reticle is behind the magnification lens. The reticle stays the same size while the target image zooms in and out.
- Main Benefit: Reticle remains constant and easy to see across magnifications.
- Best for: Traditional hunting, short–mid range, simple setups.
- Downside: Subtensions are only accurate at one magnification (usually max).
| Feature | FFP (First Focal Plane) | SFP (Second Focal Plane) |
|---|---|---|
| Reticle size changes with zoom | Yes | No |
| Subtensions accurate at all magnifications | Yes | No – only at one set power |
| Ideal for long-range / tactical | Yes | Not ideal |
| Reticle visibility at low power | Can be thin | Always clear |
| Cost | Usually higher | Usually lower |
| Best for | Precision, tactical, PRS shooting | Hunting, general use |
Choose FFP if you:
- Shoot at multiple ranges
- Use holdovers or MIL/MOA reticles
- Compete in PRS or tactical matches
- Want the reticle to stay accurate at every zoom level
Choose SFP if you:
- Mostly shoot at one distance
- Prefer a bold, visible reticle
- Want simplicity and budget-friendly options
- Hunt in low light where clarity matters more
“FFP is always better.” Not always. FFP is great for technical precision, but many hunters find SFP faster and clearer. It depends on how you shoot.
FAQDoes FFP make the reticle harder to see at low magnification?
Yes. The reticle becomes smaller and thinner at low power, which can be harder to pick up quickly.
Are SFP scopes less accurate?
No. They’re accurate at the magnification where the subtensions are calibrated.
Are all tactical scopes FFP?
No. Many are, but not all; FFP is preferred for flexible holds.
Both FFP and SFP scopes have their place. If you value precision and flexibility, go FFP. If you want clarity, simplicity, and ease, SFP could be the smarter pick.
Explore SFP and FFP scopes at Tacticalscope The following links are to filtered results: FFP Scopes | SFP Scopes You can filter even more by variables such as price, magnification, brand, tube diameter and more.
