7 Best First Focal Plane (FFP) Scopes - 2023 Reviews and Guide
Getting the perfect rifle scope is not as easy as you think. Even if you have the intention of using the first focal plane as many people would do because they are very accurate and versatile between its magnifications feature, there is still the problem of filtering the second focal plane scopes.
You must as well compare that. You find that the searching the market and doing those filtering can take all the time you have.
The best thing that helps you make a good buying decision is the guide provided below. These contain the best of the first focal plane scopes and there is no need to bother yourself about the second because the work is already done for you. Furthermore, the helpful advice can guide of you are looking for the best FFP scope. Other attributes that can guide you are provided here so that you can easily review them.
What is First Focal Plane or FFP ?
The differences that exist between the FFP and SFP
It is necessary that you know the differences that may exist between the first focal plane and the second focal plane. This is because misconceptions about these two as it concerns the similarities they have as well as the differences.
FFP features reticles and this lies in the front of that scope. In the same way, there is the reticle in the SFP and this is within the scope back.
It is obvious that names given to them were chosen from the reticle placement and not because of any other reason that has to do with the scope.
Is there anything significant with that scope placement? Technically, this placement can be complicated, the major difference is that FFP can change size if you change its magnification setting, but this is not the case with the SFP.
Secondly if you zoom the scope in, you discover that the FFP will become very big with time and when you zoom out it will now become smaller.
Because of this, it is easier to make a more accurate decisions using it since it makes the estimation holdover point to be more accurate irrespective of the current magnification level. It is not surprising that when it comes to making of difficult shots that many people would prefer using FFP.
This is because you fire the shot there are lots of things you must think about. For some users, the difficulty they encounter has to do with reticle size changing, but with time become used to it and make the best use of that situation.
Though the FFP can be very useful, some others would prefer the SFP since they do not change in sizes when you zoom in or out.
The accuracy is better at the single magnification level and this also depends on the SFP scope construction.
However, for some of the users, the scope is less distracting.
Why do people still prefer to use this FFP
The fact is that it has the ability to be in the same perspective irrespective of the target and that makes it easier for distant shooting. Because of that, people can take advantage of its windage as well as the holdover points for more distant accurate shooting.
Besides if you are envisaging a more difficult shooting, it is better to approach it with FFP, because you can make a more accurate shooting with that if you are confronted with lots of confounding factors.
If you think that you will have accuracy issue, then you can always consider this.
This is not the case with SFP reticle. It is pretty easier since they do not have to deal with swap issues between magnification level. The accuracy cannot be as that of the FFP because when it comes to ease of use, many people will always prefer it.
If you are able to swap between magnifications and you want to hunt in low light conditions, it is pretty easier to use the FFP. It is more adaptable to that situation.
What are the best suitable ranges for the FFP?
This is good and can be very effective if you use it in virtual range. The reason is because of the ability to change size in different magnification levels.
You can comfortably use this in any scope zoom level.
From the range of 100 yards to 1000 yards you can comfortably use this and you get the same accuracy.
For this scope there is no best ideal range. This can work well under different ranges and because of that, it is considered the best for target practice and hunting purpose. It makes it easier to hit your target at different ranges.
It is good for hunting if you know best to select your ranges.
Are there other things good in an FFP scope?
This has lots of other features and that has to do with the capabilities of the reticles. One of the things that make it great is its illumination. It is much easier to use the first focal plane reticle and you can use that even at smaller range settings.
Several other benefits are derivable from it and one of them is the durability. This is more durable and you can use it in different hunting conditions without damage.
It is harder than most other scopes out there, and it can function for a very long time.
Some of them have their lenses protected from scratches, debris, and dust. This means that you can use it in any environment without worries.
Furthermore, some of them feature special coating, and this can increase light transmission. You are sure of higher contrast and bright sight pictures and accurate shooting.
Hope this was helpful.
The 7 Best First Focal Plane Scopes Quick List
Scope Image | Scope | Price |
|---|---|---|
 | Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm FFP Rifle Scope | |
 | SWFA SS 3-15×42 Tactical Rifle Scope FFP | |
 | Vortex Optics Razor 4.5-27x56mm | |
 | Athlon Optics, Argos BTR, 6-24x50mm First Focal Plane | |
 | Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm FFP | |
 | Monstrum G2 1-4×24 First Focal Plane Scope | |
 | Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-16×44 First Focal Plane |
Now let’s get down to business with the
TOP 7 FFP Scopes List
1. Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm FFP Rifle Scope
A superior quality FFP should have the best features and one of them is the versatility that the reticle provides. It comes with a primary arms scope and this can provide as much as 4 to 14 times magnification.
Because of that, you can use it for different purposes including hunting.
Another great benefit is the fast focus eyepiece and this makes it easier to aim your target and get it.
Even if the target moves fast, you can still get it.
Furthermore, it cannot disappoint when you use it and it is durable. Most important it is waterproofed. Because of that the scope is well protected.
It can prevent shock damage and so on.
Gear Turrets
Furthermore, this comes with the best elevation and windage in the industry. They are not only audible; this product is tactile as well.
This is very simple and easy to use. Moreover, it features side adjustment known and this makes for long-range shooting and accuracy.
Final Verdict
This is the best choice and it is not surprising that it tops the list here. The product comes with enough magnification settings and you must take advantage of that.
This product is highly versatile and it comes with a parallax adjustment knob and this makes long-distance hunting possible.
Furthermore, it comes with windage and elevation turrets which is a great benefit.
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CONS
2. SWFA SS 3-15×42 Tactical Rifle Scope FFP
It is another high-quality FFP and it covers wide range of magnification that range from 3 to 15 times bigger. This can cover up to 200 to more than 1000 yards.
The reticle installed is suitable for that purpose. It is very fast and covers a wide range of distance. Furthermore, this model comes with parallax knob, this is also making it for the value to be adjusted.
If you want you can use this with a scope of high magnification, it is compatible. Compared to other scopes out there, its windage, as well as elevation turrets, are among the best in the industry.
Matte finish
For hunters, this model is the most suitable. It does not glare or flash in bright sunlight. Moreover, you can get closer to your target when you use this product, and you can get closer to your target.
Final Verdict
This is one of the best made for hunters. If you engage in long-distance shooting or you engage in a competition, this is a great option. Furthermore, it comes with the best magnification mechanism and the reticle is the best and the same thing is applicable to parallax turret, elevation as well as the windage.
PROS
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3. Vortex Optics Razor 4.5-27x56mm HD Gen II FFP Riflescope
When it comes to quality, Vortex always has an edge. The company comes with another innovative product. Its magnification setting is one of the things that sets it apart from several others out there.
The magnification setting is between 4.5x and above and it is good for hunters and the magnification can increase up to 27 times more. If you want to target a distant object, this is great for that. When you want to engage in a shooting competition, this product is going to help you out.
This product also comes with a glass-etched reticle and this also features 11 different illuminations. It makes it possible to get the best result during a poor light condition.
Besides, it features the best-multicoated lenses as well as XR anti-reflective materials.
Because of that, it can improve light transmission and it can also reduce distortion of the image.
L-TEC turret system
You can use this one with great confidence and this is because the windage, elevation as well as the parallax turrets are the best.
There is no need for adjustment in jostled conditions. Besides, this is going to shift very well and they offer the best in terms of performance.
Final Verdict
This FFP is very simple and easy to use. You have real value for your money when you order this. The turret system is also user friendly. It comes with everything you want. If you are looking for a good choice, you are going to consider this product. It comes with everything you want.
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4. Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24x50mm First Focal Plane
When it comes to scope quality, this product is also one of the best in the market. It makes the list because of the superior magnification ranges which stand at 6 times to 24 times. If you want to use your FFP this model is a good choice for that.
Besides, this product is fully multicoated, this makes for superior light transmission as well as better color contrast. This is a great tool when you are looking for animals to hunt.
This can easily blend with animal backgrounds.
When it comes to material, this is indeed the best since it is designed with the best aircraft grade aluminum material. This can offer you the best mechanical integrity.
You can combine this with great recoil weaponry and you can achieve a better result.
Reticle design
Furthermore, it etches to the glass directly and this makes for wonderful resistance. The reticle is instantly illuminated and it can offer you the best in terms of visibility. You can use this any time of the day without difficulties. In the midday, the power is no longer as strong as it used to be.
Final verdict
This is a versatile scope and it is durable as well. the strength is okay and that can match the body very well. it is suitable for heavy-duty rifles and those that work of huge recoils. Even hunters that use huge reticles can find this one very useful.
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5. Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm FFP Riflescope
This is another wonderful product from Vortex and the magnification features are one of the best in the industry and the magnification ranges from 5x to 25x and this makes it one of the largest in the industry.
Because of that, it makes for versatility as you can use it for different purposes. The reticle is equally outstanding and the illumination level is one of the best in the industry.
Furthermore, it is more useful than several others out there and that is due to the laser-etched turrets. Because of that, you can adjust the elevation, windage, and so on.
Besides, this comes with a parallax turret. The scope is durable and it can withstand any environment and condition.
This is possible because it is designed with the best aircraft aluminum graded materials. It can work in different conditions include foggy and watery conditions.
Lenses quality
Furthermore, it comes with lenses that are the best in the industry. The lenses are multicoated and this makes for enhanced light transmission.
This boosts the color contrast and makes the image clearer. The surfaces are protected from scratch and damage.
Final verdict
This is the most durable and it can be used for different purposes including hunting. Furthermore, you can use this in all weather. It collects light easily even in harsher conditions and transmits the same.
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6. Monstrum G2 1-4×24 First Focal Plane Scope with Illuminated BDC Reticle
Monstrum is another high-quality FFP product in the market today. This product is good because it is going to offer plenty of relief and the magnification stands at 4 to 4.5 inches and that depends on its magnification settings.
When it comes to magnification, it is of lower power compared to others and that notwithstanding, many hunters would make this a perfect choice.
The magnification is just 1x to 4x.
When it comes to quality, this is one of the best since it is designed with the highest-grade aluminum materials. It is water and fog resistance. Even though the shortcoming in terms of magnification is obvious, many people still rate this product very high.
This model also features a detachable honeycomb as well as a filter shade and lens cover. Besides, the model comes with picatinny scope and this is good for mounting.
Furthermore, it comes with carrying bag designed with drawstring material.
Illuminated reticle
It has value for money. Its scope is illuminated in green or red colors and it is very bright. This makes it easy to use in different conditions such as in low light and night time. In the reticle, you can discover the rangefinder information and this does not change.
This is the best choice for those looking for information.
Final verdict
This is one of the best and when you use this, you get value for your money. It comes with all the features you want.
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7. Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-16×44 First Focal Plane
This is the last and not the least. The magnification setting is also great and it stands at n4x and 16x. this is perfect and it fits many reticles.
The product uses multicoated lenses as well as low dispersion glass. You can see clearer with this.
The rest is designed with the best quality aircraft graded aluminum materials. It is weather friendly and it is waterproofed as well. it is also very durable.
Precision erector system
This makes the most of the FFP reticle by switching the magnification setting. The zoom level is great and you are sure of accurate, repeatable and smooth operation. This is one of the best scopes in the market.
Final verdict
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CONS
Conclusion
These are the best FFP scope and you can choose any of them. You are sure of achieving success with any of them you choose. You can easily make your choice and you have to consider your budget, preferences as well as the magnification settings of your choice. All of these can match your needs.
For other rifle and scope types check: