Understanding Front Focal Plane with Leupold

Published on June 14, 2013
Duration: 5:53

This guide explains the fundamental differences between Front Focal Plane (FFP) and Rear Focal Plane (SFP) reticle systems in rifle scopes. It details how each system works, their advantages and disadvantages, and provides guidance on choosing the appropriate system for different shooting applications, from hunting to tactical engagements. The information is presented with expert authority from Leupold and Gun Talk Media.

Quick Summary

Front Focal Plane (FFP) scopes place the reticle before the magnification system, causing it to scale with the target image for consistent subtension and accurate range estimation at all powers. Rear Focal Plane (SFP) scopes place the reticle behind the magnification system, so it remains a constant size, making range estimation accurate primarily at the highest magnification. FFP is ideal for precision, while SFP can be better for fast acquisition at low power.

Chapters

  1. 00:24Introduction to Focal Planes
  2. 00:32Reticle Placement Explained
  3. 01:12History and Trends (FFP vs SFP)
  4. 01:54How FFP Works
  5. 02:56How SFP Works
  6. 03:24FFP Advantages and Disadvantages
  7. 04:15SFP for Hunting & Fast Acquisition
  8. 05:00Choosing the Right Focal Plane

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Front Focal Plane (FFP) and Rear Focal Plane (SFP) reticles in scopes?

In FFP scopes, the reticle scales with magnification, maintaining consistent subtension for accurate range estimation at all powers. In SFP scopes, the reticle stays the same size, making range estimation accurate mainly at the highest magnification.

When is a Front Focal Plane (FFP) scope preferred over a Rear Focal Plane (SFP) scope?

FFP scopes are preferred for applications requiring precise range estimation and holdovers at any magnification, such as long-range shooting or tactical scenarios where quick adjustments are critical.

Why might a shooter choose a Rear Focal Plane (SFP) scope for hunting?

SFP scopes are often chosen for hunting or fast target acquisition with low-power variable optics (like 1-6x) because the reticle's constant size aids in quickly acquiring the target at lower magnifications.

Can the reticle size be an issue in FFP scopes?

Yes, in FFP scopes, the reticle can appear very small at the lowest magnification settings, potentially making it difficult for quick target acquisition, or very thick and large at the highest magnification settings.

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