FFP

FFP (First Focal Plane) refers to the front focal plane in a riflescope. In FFP scopes, the reticle scales proportionally with magnification, allowing accurate distance measurement and corrections at any power setting.

What is FFP and how does it work

In an FFP riflescope, the reticle sits in front of the magnification system. When you change magnification, the reticle grows and shrinks together with the target image. The ratio between target size and reticle markings stays constant.

This means 1 MIL or 1 MOA on the reticle represents the same angular value at any magnification. The shooter can measure distances, calculate wind corrections, or use holdover marks without recalculating.

For example, at both 4× and 16×, a 2 MIL holdover mark always represents 2 MIL. On an SFP riflescope, that value would only be correct at one specific magnification.

FFP vs. SFP

SFP (Second Focal Plane) places the reticle behind the magnification system. The reticle stays the same size regardless of magnification, but MIL/MOA values are only accurate at one specific power setting (usually maximum). At other magnifications, the shooter must recalculate correction values.

Who should choose FFP

FFP riflescopes are preferred by shooters who:

• Shoot at long range (550+ yards / 500+ meters)
• Actively use the reticle for ranging and corrections
• Frequently change magnification during a shooting session
• Rely on holdover marks at varying distances

FFP is the standard for tactical shooting, PRS competitions, and long-range hunting at extreme distances. The main advantage is speed – the shooter does not need to recalculate corrections when changing magnification.

Who should choose SFP

SFP riflescopes are preferred by:

• Hunters shooting at 110–550 yards (100–500 meters)
• Recreational shooters
• Beginners (simpler to use)
• Low-light shooters (reticle stays visible at lower magnification)

Most hunting riflescopes on the market are SFP. For typical woodland or field hunting out to 330 yards (300 meters), SFP is more than sufficient.

Drawbacks of FFP

At low magnification, the reticle becomes very small and hard to see. This can be a problem during fast shooting in low light. At high magnification, a thick reticle may obscure small targets at long range.

FFP riflescopes cost more than comparable SFP models. The higher price reflects more demanding manufacturing and the precision needed to place the reticle in front of the magnification system. For most hunters shooting out to 330 yards (300 meters), SFP is sufficient and more affordable.

Related terms: SFP, MOA, MIL, reticle, riflescope