The difference between the first focal plane (FFP) and the second focal plane (SFP) scopes and their applicable scenarios
The difference between the first focal plane (FFP) and the second focal plane (SFP) scopes and their applicable scenarios
Blog Article
When buying hunting or tactical scopes, many shooters face a key question: How to choose between the first focal plane (FFP) and the second focal plane (SFP)? These two designs have significant differences in function, user experience, and applicable scenarios. This article will analyze their differences in detail and help you make the best choice based on your actual needs.
1. What are the first focal plane (FFP) and the second focal plane (SFP)?
(1) First focal plane (FFP)
The reticle (scale lines) are located at the front end of the magnifying lens group, so when the magnification changes, the reticle will be enlarged or reduced synchronously.
Features:
No matter how the magnification is adjusted, the reticle scale of the scope always maintains the same proportional relationship with the target.
At high magnification, the reticle lines become thicker; at low magnification, the reticle lines become thinner.
Applicable to scenarios that require accurate ranging and ballistic compensation.
(2) Second focal plane (SFP)
The reticle is located at the rear end of the magnifying lens group, so when the magnification changes, the reticle size remains unchanged.
Features:
The reticle lines can only accurately match the ballistic compensation at a specific magnification (usually the highest or middle magnification).
At low magnification, the reticle lines are thinner, suitable for fast aiming; at high magnification, the reticle lines appear smaller relative to the target.
Suitable for fixed magnification or simple distance measurement needs.
2. Comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of FFP and SFP
| Features | First Focal Plane (FFP) | Second Focal Plane (SFP) |
| Reticle changes | Scaling with magnification | Fixed size, not affected by magnification |
| Distance measurement accuracy | Accurate distance measurement at any magnification | Accurate only at certain magnifications |
| Low magnification performance | The reticle may be too thin and difficult to see | The reticle is clear and suitable for fast aiming |
| High magnification performance | The reticle becomes thicker and may block the target | The reticle is smaller than the target, and the field of view is cleaner |
| Applicable scenarios | Long-range precision shooting, tactical sniping | Medium- and short-range hunting, rapid shooting |
| Price | Usually more expensive | Relatively cheap |
3. Recommended application scenarios
(1) First focal plane (FFP) scopes are suitable for:
✅ Long-range precision shooting (such as sniping, long-range hunting)
✅ Tactical applications that require ballistic compensation (BDC)
✅ Scenarios that require accurate ranging when changing magnification (such as military, competitive shooting)
Typical users: snipers, long-range hunters, tactical shooters, PRS (precision rifle shooting) players
(2) Second focal plane (SFP) scopes are suitable for:
✅ Medium and short-range hunting (such as deer and wild boar hunting)
✅ Fast aiming and shooting (such as dynamic shooting, 3-Gun competition)
✅ Limited budget, but still need a reliable scope
Typical users: hunters, sports shooters, law enforcement units, shooting enthusiasts with limited budgets
4. How to choose? Key factors analysis
(1) Shooting distance
Long distance (over 300 meters) → FFP (ensure accurate ballistic compensation)
Medium and short distance (<300 meters) → SFP (clearer low-magnification field of view)
(2) Usage environment
Tactical/competitive shooting → FFP (maintaining ranging accuracy when changing magnification)
Hunting/sports shooting → SFP (fast aiming is more important)
(3) Budget
FFP is usually more expensive and suitable for professional users
SFP is more cost-effective and suitable for ordinary shooters
5. Conclusion: FFP or SFP?
Choose FFP: If you need long-range precision shooting, variable magnification range finding, ballistic compensation, and have sufficient budget.
Choose SFP: If you are more concerned about fast aiming, medium and close-range hunting, or want to save budget.
In the end, there is no absolute good or bad, only suitable or unsuitable. Choose according to your actual needs to maximize the effectiveness of the scope! Report this page