Which Scope Reticle Is Best For You? - Rifle Scope Tips with Ryan Cleckner

Ryan Cleckner, an expert in firearms, provides a comprehensive guide to understanding rifle scope reticles. He details the evolution from basic crosshairs to advanced designs like mill-dots and hash marks, explaining their utility for measurement and holdovers. Cleckner emphasizes matching reticle complexity and features to the intended application, whether for hunting or long-range precision shooting, and highlights the importance of First Focal Plane (FFP) for accurate reticle measurements at all magnifications. He also advises on aligning reticle measurement units (Mils or MOA) with scope turrets, recommending Mils for modern long-range applications.

Quick Summary

Ryan Cleckner explains that rifle scope reticles have evolved from simple crosshairs to complex designs for measurement and aiming. He highlights the importance of First Focal Plane (FFP) for accurate reticle measurements at all magnifications and recommends Mils for modern long-range shooting, emphasizing matching reticle units to scope turrets.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Scope Reticles
  2. 00:27Evolution of Reticles
  3. 00:52Basic Crosshair and Duplex Reticles
  4. 01:55Graduated Reticles for Measurement
  5. 02:35Mill-based Reticles (Mill-dots/Hash Marks)
  6. 03:13'Christmas Tree' Reticles
  7. 04:12First Focal Plane (FFP) vs. Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  8. 04:52Reticle Complexity and Purpose
  9. 05:39Reticle Focus and Measurement Units
  10. 06:01Matching Reticle and Application

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between First Focal Plane (FFP) and Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticles?

In an FFP scope, the reticle scales with magnification, meaning its subtensions (like MOA or Mils) remain accurate at any power setting. In an SFP scope, the reticle stays the same size, so its subtensions are only accurate at the highest magnification.

Which reticle measurement unit is best for modern long-range shooting: MOA or Mils?

For modern long-range shooting, Mils are generally recommended. They offer a more consistent and practical system for range estimation and holdovers, especially when paired with FFP reticles and matching Mil-based turrets.

What are the advantages of graduated reticles like mill-dots or hash marks?

Graduated reticles provide in-scope measurement capabilities. This allows shooters to estimate range to a target and make precise holdover adjustments for elevation and windage without needing to manually adjust the scope's turrets.

How does reticle complexity affect scope usability?

While complex reticles offer more features for long-range shooting, they can become cluttered and difficult to see at lower magnifications, especially on FFP scopes. The ideal reticle complexity should align with the intended use and magnification range of the scope.

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from NSSF—The Firearm Industry Trade Association

View all →