Are you looking for a high-quality FFP scope that won’t break the bank? Look no further than our comprehensive guide to the best FFP scopes under $500. It will take your shooting game to the next level under a budget. Our list has top-performing scopes that have durable construction and well thought features whether you’re a serious hunter or shooter.
Folks, sit back and relax as we guide you through the best budget-friendly scope in the market
What Does FFP Mean on a Rifle Scope?
FFP stands for the first focal plane in a rifle scope. In FFP the reticle changes as magnification is adjusted. Therefore this also means that the reticle’s suspensions remain consistent throughout the magnification range. FFP is mostly preferred in the long-distance shooting.
As compared to SFP’s second focal plane. The reticle will keep the reticle size constant as magnification is adjusted.
Which is better, FFP or SFP?
Choosing FFP or SFP depends on the intended use of the rifle scope. However, FFP scopes are generally preferred for long-range shooting, tactical shooting, or hunting. Where precise adjustments are necessary at various magnifications FFP comes in handy as it enables quick and accurate acquisition. The cons are that it’s more expensive than SFP.
SFPs are used in target shooting and hunting in short-range shooting where precise adjustments may not be as critical. One good thing about it is they are affordable to many being cheaper than FFP.
Is FFP Scope Worth it?
Yes, FFP scopes offer the advantage of a reticle that maintains consistent subtensions at all magnification levels, making them particularly valuable for long-range precision shooting where quick adjustments for holdover and ranging are crucial.
What Should We Look For in a Rifle Scope Under $500?
When it comes to buying the best FFP scopes under $500, there are a few factors one should take into consideration.
First, the optic quality, Look for a scope with high-quality lenses and construction that can also withstand any environment at hand. Aluminum in scopes is well known for its durability and is lightweight as well
Secondly, is the magnification, rifle scopes vary in magnification but the intended use guides you in getting the perfect rifle scope. If you are shooting for long distance range you need a high magnification and if you are shooting for a short distance you need a lower magnification
Thirdly, eye relief, it is the distance between your eye and the scope’s eyepiece. Choose a scope with generous eye relief to avoid ending up with a black eye.
Forth, is the reticle, reticle features are very important in a rifle scope. Choose a reticle that suits your shooting style. A duplex or MOA reticle is an excellent choice for most hunters and shooters, as it offers clear aiming points at various ranges.
Fifth, easy to use, a good scope should always be easy to use and handle especially for the adjustments for windage and elevation. These adjustments allow you to zero in your rifle and make accurate shots at various distances.
Best FFP Scope Under $500
1) Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm 30mm
Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm 30mm Tube First Focal Plane Rifle Scope is a very high-end optic that is designed for long-range shooting and hunting.
Being the first focal plane, the reticle is located in front of the erector assembly meaning the reticle changes and the magnification is adjusted. This is very ideal for accuracy in shooting.
The scope is versatile having a 4-14x magnification power, making it suitable for either mid-range shooting or long-range shooting. In addition, a 44 mm objective lens diameter allows adequate light to give clear images.
It is constructed with aircraft-grade aluminum, making it both lightweight and durable. Its tube is also nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed to ensure that it is both fog proof and waterproof.
Having a fully multi-coated lens enables it to work in any environment even in low-light conditions. The lenses are also coated with Vortex’s proprietary ArmorTek coating, which protects the lens surface from scratches, dirt, and oil.
Key Features
- Magnification: 4 – 16 x
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 2.75 – 11 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.8 inches
- Field of View, Linear: 6.7 – 26.9 ft at 100 yds
- Weight: 23.1 oz
- Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
Pros
- Durable and lightweight
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Has a fast focus eyepiece
- Fog-proof, waterproof and shockproof.
- Has a precision-glide erector system
- Constructed from a solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum for strength and rigidity
- It is a first focal plane
Cons
- None
2) Athlon Optics Talos BTR 4-14 x 44 mm Rifle Scope
Athlon Optics Talos BTR 4-14 x 44 mm Rifle Scope is built to provide excellent performance and accuracy. It is a high-end rifle scope yet affordable to many.
Featuring the best FFP scopes under $500 is a top-performing optic that offers excellent accuracy, versatility, and durability. Constructed with a rugged, aircraft-grade aluminum tube that is shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof.
With a magnification power of 4-14x, the scope provides a good balance between long-range accuracy and close-range. Making its scope suitable for a wide range of hunting and shooting applications.
Has an objective lens of 44mm that provides a clear image due to adequate light inside the scope. The lens is also fully multi-coated providing excellent clarity and reducing glare and reflection.
Key Features
- Magnification: 4 – 14 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 3.3 – 11.2 mm
- Weight: 23.6 oz
- Eye Relief: 3.15 – 3.23 inches
Pros
- It is fully multi-coated
- It is a first focal plane
- Affordable
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
- Has illuminated reticles
- Has Reticle etched on the glass
Cons
- The eye relief is not good enough compared to other scopes
3) Primary Arms SLx Series 3-18 x 50 mm Rifle Scope
Primary Arms SLx Series 3-18 x 50 mm Rifle Scope is an all-weather scope. Constructed with aircraft-grade aluminum, which makes it lightweight and durable. It is also shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof, which means it can withstand the rigors of harsh outdoor environments.
The 50mm objective lens is quite large enough allowing enough light to enter the scope, resulting in a bright and clear image even in low-light conditions.
One of the outstanding features is the ACSS reticle ( Advanced Combined Sighting System). It combines elements of a bullet drop compensator, wind hold, and ranging system all into one intuitive design.
Key Features
- Magnification: 3 – 18 x
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 2.7 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.9 – 3.5 inches
- Weight: 25.4 oz
- Field of View, Linear: 36.7 – 6.1 ft at 100 yds
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Pros
- Has the First Focal Plane reticle true at every magnification
- Has Locking, Zero resettable turrets
- Waterproof, fog resistant, shock resistant
- Illuminated reticle
- Lightweight and durable
- All weather scope
- Easy to use
Cons
- None
4) Primary Arms 4-14 x 44mm Rifle Scope
Our next pick is the Primary Arms 4-14 x 44mm Rifle Scope. It is a well-known rifle scope from a trusted brand. It is not only durable but also versatile.
This scope does its work to perfection. With 4-14x magnification is capable of providing clear, detailed images at both short and long distances.
In terms of durability, made from high-quality materials and features a rugged design that can withstand heavy use and abuse. It is also shockproof, fog proof, and waterproof, ensuring that it will continue to perform reliably even in the toughest shooting conditions.
Finally, the scope is easy to use with turrets that are easy to handle and make adjustments to the windage and elevation, and the magnification ring is also easy to adjust, even with gloves on.
Key Features
- Magnification: 4 – 14 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
- Exit Pupil: 3.3 – 11.2 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Eye Relief: 3.14 – 3.22 in
- Field of View, Linear: 7.85 – 27.2 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Illuminated reticle
- Finger adjustable turrets
- First focal plane
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
- Affordable price
- Has Nitrogen purged
- Versatile
Cons
- Build quality issue
5) Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen II 6-24X50mm
On our fifth list is the Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen II 6-24X50mm APMR Rifle Scope. It is one of the top-rated rifle scopes on the market.
First, it is a fully multi-coated lens that is very effective at transmitting light to bring optimum brightness in any given environment.
Also has a shock resistance to recoil. In addition to that it is made from 6061T6 aircraft-grade aluminum making it durable and reliable.
With a 50mm objective lens, there is perfect light transmission in to the scope proving a clear image. The 6-24x magnification makes it a perfect short for long-range shooting.
Key Features
- Magnification: 6 – 24 x
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 8.2 – 2.1 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.3 inches
- Weight: 30.3 oz
- Length: 14.1 inches
- Fabric/Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Pros
- An advanced fully multi-coated optic lenses
- Allows you to return to your initial zero position with a sharp and precise stop.
- Has extra protection on the exterior lenses to prevent the scope from enduring dirt, oil, and potential scratches.
- Made from 6061T6 aircraft grade aluminum
- It is affordable
- Durable and accurate.
Cons
- Reticle is affected by changes in temperature
6) Primary Arms SLx Series 1-8 x 24mm Rifle Scope
The Primary ARMS SLx 1-8x is a low-powered variable optic that is right at home on almost any AR-15 or another tactical rifle like the best 308 tactical rifles.
Looking for a scope that will greatly enhance your shooting skills, this is one of them. With a magnification of 1x for close-range shooting to 8x for longer distances, makes it is suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios.
Features a 24mm objective lens that allows for bright and clear images even in low light conditions. Has also a fully multicoated lens.
In addition, it has a fast focus, eyepiece finger-adjustable turrets, and generous eye relief.
Key Features
- Magnification: 1 – 8 x
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 3 – 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
Pros
- First focal plane
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Has Low profile-capped turrets
- Lifetime warranty
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Has moveable and replaceable magnification ring fin
Cons
- None
FAQS
- Why are FFP scopes more expensive?
FFP scopes ( first focal plane), are more expensive than SFP scopes ( second focal plane) due to their complicated construction. For example, the complex design, being a high-quality optic, and also its versatility leads to high demand.
- Can you hunt with an FFP scope?
Yes, you can. FFP scopes have been very popular among hunters, because of their precision and accuracy when taking long-range shots.
- Why is the first focal plane better?
FFP is better due to its advantages, in the long-distance shooting. It is precious and accurate. The reticle also changes as the magnification is adjusted as compared to SFP.
Conclusion
With the best FFP scopes under $500, we hope finding your eye-capturing scope won’t be difficult. The reviewed scopes in the article offer a range of features and functionalities that can cater to different shooting needs and preferences. Before purchasing, it’s important to consider the factors which we have highlighted for you. Enjoy your Hunt!
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