Quick Answer
A SFP (Second Focal Plane) reticle maintains its size and subtensions at all magnification settings, while an FFP (First Focal Plane) reticle scales with the magnification, providing more accurate holdovers at higher powers. This affects the choice of reticle and scope for long-range shooting. Hunters often prefer SFP reticles for simplicity and reliability.
Understanding SFP Reticles
SFP reticles are more common in hunting scopes due to their simplicity and reliability. They maintain a consistent size and subtension at all magnification settings, making them easy to use for quick shots at closer ranges. However, at higher powers, the subtensions become too small to accurately read, making it difficult to holdover for longer shots.
Choosing the Right SFP Reticle
When selecting a SFP reticle, hunters should consider the scope’s power range and the type of hunting they’ll be doing. A 2-7x or 3-9x scope with a 1/4 MOA or 1/8 MOA adjustment is suitable for most hunting applications. For example, the popular Leupold VX-3 2-8x33mm scope with a 1/4 MOA adjustment is a reliable choice for short to medium-range hunting.
FFP Reticles for Long-Range Shooting
FFP reticles, on the other hand, are ideal for long-range shooting, where accurate holdovers are crucial. They scale with the magnification, allowing hunters to accurately estimate holdovers and range estimates. However, FFP reticles can be more difficult to use at lower powers, where the subtensions may become too large, making it harder to judge distances.
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