Welcome to our guide on the best FFP scopes for deer hunting! Having the right optics always makes a difference when pursuing an elusive game like deer. First Focal Plane (FFP) scopes are gaining popularity among hunters for their versatile and precise targeting capabilities. This article will take you through top-tier selections and also we will provide the information you need to make an informed decision and enhance your deer hunting experience.
Are FFP Scopes Good for Hunting?
Yes, First Focal Plane (FFP) scopes can be excellent choices for hunting, depending on your preferences and hunting style. They offer the advantage of maintaining the same reticle subtensions at all magnification levels, providing precise holdovers, range estimations, and windage corrections. This feature is valuable when hunting deer at varying distances or in changing conditions.
What’s Better for Long-range Shooting FFP or SFP?
Between the FFP and the SFP scopes for long-range shooting ultimately depends on your shooting preferences and requirements. However, FFP scopes have the advantage of maintaining consistent reticle subtensions at all magnification levels, thus allowing for precise holdovers and corrections regardless of zoom. This makes FFP scopes very beneficial for complex, long-range shots where quick adjustments are crucial.
On the other hand, SFP scopes offer a simpler sight picture at lower magnifications and may be preferred by some shooters for their simplicity and affordability.
How to Choose The Best FFP Scope for Deer Hunting
When choosing the best First Focal Plane (FFP) scope for deer hunting there are several key factors to consider to ensure it meets your specific needs. They Include:
- Determine Your Budget: First, you establish a budget range that aligns with your financial constraints. FFP scopes can vary widely in price, so having a clear budget will help narrow down your options.
- Select an Appropriate Magnification Range: Consider the hunting conditions you’ll encounter. Look for a scope that provides versatility for close to mid-range shots and higher magnification ranges for long-range hunting.
- Consider Durability: Always ensure the scope is built to withstand the rigors of deer hunting. Look for scopes that are shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant.
- Evaluate the Objective Lens Diameter: A larger objective lens, like 50mm or more, can gather more light, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions. But keep in mind that larger objective lenses can add weight and bulk to your rifle.
- Consider Additional Features: Check the extra features you may want, such as an illuminated reticle for low-light situations or parallax adjustment for more precise long-range shooting.
Best FFP Scope for Deer Hunting
1) Trijicon Tenmile TM3056 4.5-30x56mm Rifle Scope
Our first pick is the Trijicon Tenmile TM3056 4.5-30x56mm Rifle Scope, 34 mm Tube, First Focal Plane (FFP). It is a perfect scope designed for deer hunting.
One of the standout features is the variable magnification range of 4.5-30x56mm which offers an exceptional level of versatility, allowing hunters and marksmen to engage targets both up close and at extreme distances.
The scope also features a 56mm objective lens diameter which ensures excellent light-gathering capability, resulting in a bright and clear sight picture even in challenging lighting conditions at dawn or dusk.
Furthermore, It is constructed with durable housing that can withstand harsh outdoor conditions. It is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant, ensuring that it can perform reliably in adverse weather and rugged terrain
Specifications
- Magnification: 4.5 – 30 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
- Exit Pupil: 0.35 – 0.07 inches
- Eye Relief: 3.2 – 3.8 inches
- Weight: 36 oz
- Length: 363.98 mm, 14.33 inches
Pros
- Versatile magnification range
- Illuminated reticle
- Easy-Focus Eyepiece
- Matte finish and easy-grip controls for fast, intuitive adjustments.
- Has Quick & Easy Adjustments
- Zero-stop feature
Cons
- None
2) Athlon Ares BTR Gen II HD 4.5-27x50mm Rifle Scope
The Athlon Optics Ares BTR Gen II HD 4.5-27x50mm APLR3 Rifle Scope is a top-tier optic designed for precision shooting and hunting applications.
The scope features a versatile magnification range of 4.5-27x, allowing shooters to engage targets at various distances with ease. As it is well suited for close-quarters encounters to long-range precision shots.
Also, the scope uses glass etched reticles to ensure you have a vivid aiming point even in low light environments and fully multicoated optics that provide an amazingly bright, high-resolution view that will allow you to accurately spot nearly anything while still being able to see your target in low light situations.
To all scopes durability is a key aspect. It is constructed from rugged materials that are shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant, ensuring reliable performance in adverse weather conditions and challenging terrain.
Specifications
- Magnification: 4.5 – 27 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Exit Pupil: 11.1 – 1.8 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.9 inches
- Weight: 27.3 oz
- Length: 13.8 inches
- Field of View, Linear: 22.7 – 3.8 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Illuminated reticle
- Fully multi-coated
- Has a Precision Zero Stop System
- Durable
- Long eye relief
Cons
- None
3) Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen II 6-24X50mm Rifle Scope
On to the next, we have the Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen II 6-24X50mm APMR Rifle Scope, it is a top-rated scope.
The scope boasts a substantial magnification range of 6-24x, thus making it well-suited for precision shooting at extended distances. Whether you’re engaging targets at long-range or need a closer view.
Featuring the glass-etched reticle and an illuminated Mil-dot reticle makes it excellent for long-range accuracy.
In addition, it features exposed tactical turrets, which allow for quick and precise adjustments. It is also constructed from a robust construction that is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant, ensuring that it can withstand the challenges of various weather conditions and rugged terrain.
Specifications
- Magnification: 6 – 24 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Exit Pupil: 8.2 – 2.1 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.3 inches
- Weight: 30.3 oz
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Length: 14.1 inches
- Field of View, Linear: 16.7 – 4.5 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Affordable price
- Made from quality material
- East to use turrets
- It is fully multi-coated
- Allows you to return to your initial zero position with a sharp and precise stop, right on your initial zero.
- Has extra protection on the exterior lenses to prevent the scope from enduring dirt, oil, and potential scratches.
Cons
- None
4) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm 30mm FFP Rifle Scope
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm 30mm FFP Rifle Scope marks our next pick of the best FFP scopes for deer hunting.
Incorporating the first focal plane (FFP) reticle ensures that the reticle’s features and subtensions remain accurate at all magnification settings.
Featuring both the 24mm objective lens, provides good light transmission and clarity, ensuring a clear sight picture even in various lighting conditions. Also the illuminated reticle enhances visibility in low-light environments, making it suitable for dawn or dusk hunting.
The scope also has capped tactical turrets, which help protect against accidental adjustments while providing easy access when needed.
For durability, it is constructed to be shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant, to ensure reliable performance in adverse weather conditions and rugged terrain.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1 – 8 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.9 inches
- Weight: 1.49 lb
- Length: 14.25 inches
Pros
- Long eye relief
- Has an Ultra-hard, scratch-resistant coating that protects exterior lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt.
- It is fully multi-coated
- Affordable
Cons
- None
5) Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
And last but not least we have the Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm 30mm Tube First Focal Plane Rifle Scope.
The scope features capped tactical turrets, which protect against accidental adjustments while maintaining a simple and user-friendly design
It also features fully multi-coated lenses that create a bright, high-resolution sight picture with true colors throughout. image
For the magnification, of 4-16x it allows shooters to adapt to different shooting scenarios. This range is suitable for a wide array of applications, from long-range precision shooting to hunting in various terrains.
Featuring the 44mm objective lens, provides good light transmission and clarity, ensuring a clear sight picture even in various lighting conditions.
Specifications
- Magnification: 4 – 16 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30
- Exit Pupil: 2.75 – 11 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.8 inches
- Weight: 23.1 oz
- Length: 14 inches
- Field of View, Linear: 6.7 – 26.9 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- It is fully multi-coated
- Has Glass-etched Reticle
- Has XD Lens Elements: Extra-low dispersion (XD) glass increases resolution and color fidelity, resulting in crisp, sharp images.
- Fast-focus eyepiece
Cons
- None
FAQS
- Are there any budget-friendly FFP scopes suitable for deer hunting?
Yes, there are budget-friendly FFP scopes available from various reputable brands.
- How important is the adjustment system (turrets) in an FFP scope for deer hunting?
Look for scopes with precise and reliable turrets that have audible and tactile features. This feature ensures you can make accurate adjustments in the field quickly.
- Can I use an FFP scope for other types of hunting or shooting activities besides deer hunting?
Yes, FFP scopes are versatile and suitable for various hunting and shooting activities, including varmint hunting, target shooting, and long-range shooting.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the best FFP scope for deer hunting can significantly elevate your accuracy and success in the field. Having an ideal scope that strikes a balance between budget, magnification range, objective lens size, and reticle type, tailored to your specific hunting needs and preferences is a win-win. And from our top-notch list, the scopes have these top tier features. We hope you will find the scope you are looking for as we wish you a happy shopping!
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