You’re in the market for an exceptional first focal plane scope, but with so many options, it can be overwhelming. You want a scope that delivers outstanding optical clarity, precise tracking, and reliable holdovers. You’re not alone in this quest for the perfect scope.

In the world of first focal plane scopes, seven stand out from the rest. From Vortex Optics’ unparalleled glass quality to Leupold’s exceptional image quality, each scope boasts unique features that cater to different needs and preferences. But which one is right for you?

Top 7 Best First Focal Plane Scopes on the Market 2024

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Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescopes⁠

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Bushnell AR Optics⁠

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Monstrum G3 3-18x50 FFP Riflescope⁠

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Arken Optics Riflescope⁠

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Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm First Focal Plane Riflescopes⁠

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Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescopes⁠

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Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm M1C3 FFP Riflescope⁠

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Note: The following advice comes from my personal perspective. What works for me might not work for you, but hopefully it sparks some ideas!

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1. Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescopes

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If you’re a serious hunter seeking a reliable, high-performance riflescope that delivers exceptional optical quality and precision tracking, the Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescope is likely your best bet.

This scope offers unparalleled optical clarity, thanks to its extra-low dispersion glass and fully multi-coated lenses, ensuring you get a sharp, high-contrast image even in low-light conditions.

With its first focal plane, glass-etched reticle, you’ll enjoy precise tracking and accurate holdovers, while the precision-glide erector system guarantees smooth magnification changes.

Additionally, the exposed turrets, side parallax knob, and fast focus eyepiece make adjustments a breeze.

Best For: Serious hunters seeking a reliable, high-performance riflescope that delivers exceptional optical quality and precision tracking.

Pros:

Unparalleled optical clarity with extra-low dispersion glass and fully multi-coated lenses

Precise tracking and accurate holdovers with first focal plane, glass-etched reticle

Smooth magnification changes with precision-glide erector system

Cons:

No illuminated reticle option

No throw lever for quick magnification changes

Some users may find the scope to be slightly heavier than expected

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2.
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Bushnell AR Optics

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For shooters seeking a reliable and adaptable optic for their AR platform, the Bushnell 1-4x24 Optics DZ 223 Illuminated Reticle scope is an excellent choice. It offers a versatile magnification range and an illuminated Ballistic Drop Compensated reticle. With its fully multi-coated optics and waterproof construction, this scope is built to withstand the rigors of tactical shooting.

You’ll appreciate the adjustable length throw lever and the clarity of the glass, making it ideal for short to mid-range shooting. While some users have reported issues with reticle rotation, the overall customer reviews are overwhelmingly positive. It boasts a 4.6-star rating based on over 1,800 ratings.

Best For: Shooters seeking a reliable and adaptable optic for their AR platform, particularly for short to mid-range shooting and medium game hunting.

Pros:

Fully multi-coated optics and waterproof construction for durability and clarity

Adjustable length throw lever and illuminated Ballistic Drop Compensated reticle for ease of use

Clear glass and reticle design with versatile magnification range for short to mid-range shooting

Cons:

Some users reported issues with reticle rotation

Limited durability concerns from some users

May not be suitable for long-range shooting or larger game hunting

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3. Monstrum G3 3-18x50 FFP Riflescope

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With its 3-18x magnification and first focal plane MOA reticle, the Monstrum G3 3-18x50 FFP Rifle Scope is an ideal choice for hunters and shooters who need a reliable scope for targeting at varying distances.

You’ll appreciate the parallax adjustment feature, which guarantees a clear view of your target. The scope comes with high-profile picatinny scope rings, a detachable sunshade, and lens covers, making it a great value for the price.

With a full lifetime warranty, you can trust that your investment is protected. While some users have reported issues with eye box and target focus at high magnification, overall, this scope has received positive feedback for its optic clarity, tracking, and zero holding.

Best For: Hunters and shooters who need a reliable scope for targeting at varying distances.

Pros:

Offers clear optic clarity, tracking, and zero holding capabilities

Features a parallax adjustment feature for a clear view of the target

Comes with additional components like high-profile picatinny scope rings, a detachable sunshade, and lens covers

Cons:

Some users have reported issues with eye box and target focus at high magnification

Challenges with elevation and windage knob alignment have been reported

Some users have reported mixed reviews on features and quality for the price

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Arken Optics Riflescope

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When you demand exceptional optical clarity and precision for your long-range shooting and hunting needs, the Arken Optics Rifle Scope FFP stands out as a top choice, boasting Japanese ELD glass and a fully multi-coated lens system for superior light transmission.

You’ll appreciate the simplicity of the zero stop mechanism and the fast focus eyepiece, making it easy to get on target quickly. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction guarantees durability, and the O-ring sealed, nitrogen-purged design ensures waterproof and fogproof performance.

With a choice of VPR or VHR reticle, you can customize your shooting experience to suit your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or competitive shooter, the Arken Optics Rifle Scope FFP is a reliable and accurate companion for your rifle.

Best For: Seasoned hunters and competitive shooters who demand exceptional optical clarity and precision for their long-range shooting and hunting needs.

Pros:

Exceptional optical clarity and precision for long-range shooting and hunting

Durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction with O-ring sealed, nitrogen-purged design for waterproof and fogproof performance

Customizable shooting experience with a choice of VPR or VHR reticle

Cons:

Some users have reported mixed reviews on features and quality for the price

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Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm First Focal Plane Riflescopes

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You’ll want to zero in on the Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm First Focal Plane Riflescope if precise ranging and holdover are your top priorities, thanks to its traditional MIL-Dot reticle and first focal plane design that guarantees accurate magnification.

This scope is built for hunting, with a rugged aluminum construction that’s shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant. The side-adjustable parallax and fast focus eye piece guarantee a clear view, and the tactile and audible 1/10 MIL windage and elevation adjustments make changes a breeze.

With a limited lifetime warranty and a competitive price point, you’ll get exceptional performance without breaking the bank.

Best For: Hunters who need a reliable and accurate riflescope with precise ranging and holdover capabilities.

Pros:

Traditional MIL-Dot reticle and first focal plane design for accurate magnification and ranging

Rugged aluminum construction that’s shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant

Clear optics and adjustable parallax and focus for a clear view

Cons:

Some users have reported issues with turret clicks alignment

Limited night vision capability

Some users may find the scope’s weight or size to be a drawback

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6. Athlon
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Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescopes

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If you’re a hunter or competitive shooter seeking a versatile scope that excels in multiple shooting disciplines, the Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescope is an excellent choice, boasting a 0.1 MIL click value and 18 MIL total adjustment.

This scope’s impressive features don’t stop there - it also offers a 10 yards to infinity parallax adjustment, a first focal plane reticle, and fully multicoated optics. The Precision Zero Stop system guarantees accurate adjustments, while the XPL coating protects the lens from scratches.

With its 4x magnification, 50mm objective lens diameter, and 3.3-inch eye relief, this scope is designed for top-notch performance.

As an added bonus, it comes with a detailed instruction manual and is backed by a manufacturer’s warranty.

Best For: Hunters and competitive shooters seeking a versatile scope that excels in multiple shooting disciplines.

Pros:

Clear image quality and crisp turrets

Positive experience with MIL reticle, illumination, and magnification dial stiffness

Clear picture quality at distances exceeding 500 yards

Cons:

Issues with field of view at high power

No mention of specific durability or ruggedness features

Some users may prefer to upgrade to a higher-end scope like the Ares BTR GEN2 HD 4.5-27x50 with APLR4 Reticle

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7. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm M1C3 FFP Riflescope

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For long-range hunters who demand exceptional image quality and durability, the Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm M1C3 FFP Riflescope is an ideal choice, boasting a robust design and high-performance features that excel in the most demanding environments.

You’ll appreciate the Twilight Max HD Light Management system, which guarantees superior image quality in low-light conditions. The M1C3 Turrets with ZeroLock and revolution indicator provide precise adjustments, and the Front Focal Plane (FFP) reticle guarantees accurate holdovers.

With a durable aluminum construction, this scope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, making it perfect for harsh hunting conditions. Weighing 2.86 pounds and measuring 17.99 x 5.55 x 5.28 inches, this scope is lightweight and compact, making it easy to handle.

Best For: Long-range hunters who demand exceptional image quality and durability.

Pros:

Exceptional image quality and durability

Robust design with high-performance features that excel in demanding environments

Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to handle

Cons:

No night vision capability

Higher price point compared to other scopes on the market

May require additional mounting hardware for proper installation

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Factors to Consider When Choosing First Focal Plane Scopes

When choosing a first focal plane scope, you’re not just picking a product - you’re investing in a critical component of your shooting system.

You’ll need to carefully consider several key factors, including the optical quality, reticle choice, magnification range, eye relief, and durability.

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Optical Quality Matters

You demand exceptional optical quality in a first focal plane scope, as it’s the linchpin that holds together the entire shooting experience, impacting the clarity, sharpness, and brightness of your sight picture.

When choosing a first focal plane scope, you should prioritize optical quality, as it directly affects your shooting performance. Look for scopes with fully multi-coated lenses to guarantee maximum light transmission and reduced glare for a clear sight picture.

Additionally, consider scopes with extra-low dispersion glass, which enhances color accuracy and resolution, especially at higher magnifications. High-quality optical systems in first focal plane scopes contribute to better target acquisition, precision aiming, and overall shooting performance.

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Reticle Choice Is Crucial

Selecting the right reticle is a vital decision, as it directly impacts your shooting performance and overall experience with a first focal plane scope. You’ll want to evaluate the type of reticle that suits your shooting style and preferences. Do you prefer a MIL or MOA-based system? Make sure you’re familiar with the system you choose, as it’ll impact your accuracy.

Evaluate the reticle’s design for clarity, visibility, and functionality at various magnification levels. A well-designed reticle should provide clear holdover points, windage marks, and range estimation features to enhance your accuracy. It’s important to choose a reticle that complements your shooting style, whether it’s for long-range precision, hunting, or tactical applications.

Lastly, confirm that the reticle’s subtensions match the scope’s magnification levels for accurate ranging and holdover calculations. A mismatch can lead to errors, so it’s vital to get this right.

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Magnification Range Considerations

Now that you’ve selected a reticle that suits your shooting style, it’s time to contemplate the magnification range of your first focal plane scope, as it directly impacts your ability to engage targets at varying distances effectively.

When choosing a scope, consider the range of magnification offered, such as 1-4x, 3-18x, or 5-25x, to match your shooting needs from close quarters to long distances. A wider magnification range, like 6-24x or 4-14x, provides versatility in various shooting scenarios. Higher magnification scopes, such as 5-25x, are suitable for precision shooting and long-range engagements.

On the other hand, lower magnification scopes, like 1-4x, are ideal for fast target acquisition in close-range situations. It’s essential to choose a magnification range that aligns with your shooting style, whether it’s hunting, tactical shooting, or long-range precision shooting.

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Eye Relief and Ergonomics

When selecting a first focal plane scope, eye relief and ergonomic considerations can make all the difference in ensuring a comfortable and accurate shooting experience. You’ll want to take into account the eye relief, which is the distance between your eye and the scope where you can still see the full field of view. A longer eye relief is beneficial for high recoil firearms, while shorter eye relief may work better for compact rifles or carbines. Typically, ideal eye relief ranges from 3 to 4 inches, ensuring a clear sight picture without any scope shadow.

Ergonomics also play an important role in user comfort. Factors like turret design, parallax adjustment, and overall scope weight contribute to ease of use during shooting. Understanding your shooting style and preferences will help you choose a first focal plane scope with the right eye relief and ergonomic features for your needs.

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Durability and Build Quality

You’ll want a first focal plane scope that can withstand the rigors of frequent use and harsh environments, which is why durability and build quality should be top priorities during your selection process.

When choosing a scope, consider those made from high-quality materials like aircraft-grade aluminum, guaranteeing durability and longevity. Look for scopes with waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof features to guarantee reliable performance in various conditions.

Check for scopes with sealed O-rings and nitrogen or argon purging for added protection against moisture and internal fogging. A robust construction and rugged design will help the scope withstand recoil and rough handling.

Additionally, evaluate scopes with warranties like lifetime guarantees, which provide long-term support and protection for your investment. By prioritizing durability and build quality, you’ll be confident that your scope can withstand the demands of frequent use and harsh environments.

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Parallax Adjustment Importance

Accurate shooting demands a first focal plane scope that allows for precise parallax adjustment, as this feature is crucial for eliminating aiming errors and ensuring a consistent point of impact.

When you’re shopping for a first focal plane scope, you’ll want to prioritize parallax adjustment, as it’s vital for eliminating the optical illusion of the reticle shifting in relation to the target. By adjusting the parallax setting, you can maintain a consistent point of impact at different distances, ensuring improved shooting accuracy.

This feature is particularly important at longer ranges, where even slight misalignments can throw off your aim. Proper parallax adjustment can greatly reduce aiming errors caused by parallax shift, leading to more accurate shots.

Additionally, adjusting the parallax setting enhances target clarity and focus, making it easier to acquire your target. With a first focal plane scope that allows for precise parallax adjustment, you can trust that your reticle is aligned with your target, giving you the confidence to take the shot.

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Budget and Value Assessment

Taking into account your budget is essential when choosing a first focal plane scope, as prices can vary greatly depending on the brand and features. Making an informed decision requires balancing cost with performance and quality. You’ll want to assess the value of the scope by comparing its price to the quality of materials, optics clarity, and additional features it offers.

Look for scopes that offer a good balance between price and performance, ensuring you get the best value for your money. Additionally, evaluate the warranty offered by the manufacturer as it can indicate the scope’s durability and the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

Check for user reviews and feedback on the scope’s performance and value for money to make an informed decision. By carefully considering your budget and the scope’s value, you’ll be able to find a first focal plane scope that meets your needs and provides a great return on your investment.

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Conclusion

You’ve narrowed down your options to the 7 best first focal plane scopes. Now, consider your specific needs, shooting style, and budget to make an informed decision.

Whether you prioritize optical clarity, precision tracking, or durability, one of these scopes will meet your requirements.

By weighing the unique features of each scope, you’ll find the perfect fit for your next shooting adventure.

Top 7 Best First Focal Plane Scopes on the Market 2024

1. Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescopes

2. Bushnell AR Optics

3. Monstrum G3 3-18x50 FFP Riflescope

4. Arken Optics Riflescope

5. Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm First Focal Plane Riflescopes

6. Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescopes

7. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm M1C3 FFP Riflescope

Factors to Consider When Choosing First Focal Plane Scopes

Optical Quality Matters