First Focal Plane vs. Second Focal Plane Explained in Plain English

Aaron Spuler is a firearms enthusiast and recreational shooter. Follow more or his work at The Weapon Blog

In this post I’m going to break down EVERYTHING you need to know about first focal plane and second focal plane.

What they are.

The pros and cons.

And which one you should choose.

Let’s dive right in.

What is a First Focal Plane

A first focal plane scope means that the reticle is placed in front of the magnification lens. As a result, the scope’s reticle size changes as you shift through magnification.

Here’s an example:

First Focal Plane example (Image via Tacticalclassroom)

The biggest benefit of using a FFP rifle scope is that the holdover points remain the same throughout all magnifications.

For example, the 8 MOA line is at 8 MOA on the highest setting, the lowest setting and everything in between. This makes FFP rifle scopes — like the best scope for AR-10 — great for long-range shooting.

However, there are two draw backs:

First, FFP reticles could appear large and thick at higher magnifications, while small and thin at lower magnifications. This could make it a bit harder to see your target.

Second, first focal plane scopes are generally more expensive than a second focal plane scope. Speaking of SFP scopes…

What is a Second Focal Plane

A second focal plane scope means that the reticle is placed behind the magnification lens. That means the scope’s reticle size remains the same as you shift through magnification.

Here’s an example:

Second Focal Plane example (Image via Tacticalclassroom)

Unlike FFP rifle scopes where the reticle could be a bit hard to see at times, SFP reticles are easy-to-see at all magnifications.

However, spacing for holdover becomes problematic. Generally, subtensions will only be accurate at one magnification (usually the highest). So if you move any less than the highest magnification, the spacing for holdover changes.

As a result, you’d have to calculate the spacing for each power settings.

Now that we’ve outlined both first focal plane and second focal plane, you might be wondering…

Which Focal Plane Should I Choose?

Here’s the super simple answer:

If you’re a long-range shooter or hunt in open country, go for a first focal plane optic.

Otherwise, opt-in for a second focal plane scope. The reticle is more useable at lower magnifications, cheaper and more popular.

Now Its Your Turn

Now I’d like to hear from you:

What’s your experience with FFP and SFP scopes?

Or maybe you have a question.

Either way, let me know by leaving a comment below right now.

Author Bio:

Richard Douglas is the founder of Scopes Field, a blog where personally reviews various scopes and guns on the market. He’s been featured on various publications like NEWSREP, ODU Magazine, Boyds Gun Stocks, Burris Optics, JPFO and so much more.