When searching for the best FFP scope under 500, shooters and hunters seek a perfect balance between affordability and top-notch performance. Fortunately, there are excellent options available that provide the benefits of a first focal plane reticle without breaking the bank.
A high-quality first focal plane (FFP) scope maintains target-reticle alignment at any magnification, improving accuracy and usability. With numerous options available, finding the best FFP scope under 500 can be daunting.
That’s where we step in! Our guide highlights features that distinguish top contenders. We’ll help you make an informed decision based on your needs. Elevate your precision shooting with the perfect FFP scope!
Why FFP Scopes?
First Focal Plane (FFP) scopes offer several advantages that make them popular among shooters and hunters.
Reticle Subtensions Remain Accurate
In an FFP scope, the reticle is located in the first focal plane, meaning it maintains its size relative to the target as you adjust the magnification.
This ensures that the reticle subtensions remain accurate at all magnification levels. It allows you to use the reticle for range estimation, holdovers, and windage corrections consistently, regardless of the magnification setting.
Consistent Measurements
Since the reticle subtensions remain proportional to the target, FFP scopes provide consistent and precise measurements. This is particularly important for long-range shooting or when engaging targets at different distances. The ability to accurately measure the target and make precise adjustments contributes to improved accuracy and shot placement.
Versatility
FFP scopes are versatile and suitable for a wide range of shooting applications. The ability to maintain accurate subtensions at any magnification level makes them effective for both long-range precision shooting and close-quarters engagements.
This versatility is particularly beneficial for shooters who need to quickly adapt to varying shooting scenarios without adjusting their scope’s magnification.
Enhanced Holdover and Windage Corrections
FFP scopes with reticles featuring mil-dot or MOA markings provide valuable holdover and windage correction references. These reticles allow you to make precise adjustments for bullet drop and wind drift without the need for manual calculations or using external devices. The accurate subtensions enable quick and accurate compensation for environmental factors, improving shot placement.
Range Estimation
FFP scopes with mil-dot or other ranging reticles enable shooters to estimate the distance to a target more effectively. By using the known size of the target in relation to the reticle’s subtensions, you can estimate the range with greater accuracy. This information is crucial for making the necessary adjustments to ensure accurate shots, especially in dynamic shooting situations.
Best FFP Scopes Under 500
1) Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm FFP Rifle Scope
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP 4-16×44 MOA is a top-tier riflescope designed for tactical use and the best FFP scope under 500. With versatile magnification, advanced features, and outstanding performance, it’s a must-have for serious shooters.
Key features of the Vortex Diamondback include its first focal plane reticle, scaling accurately with zoom for holdover and range at any magnification. Its extra-low dispersion glass ensures clear, sharp, and true-to-color images.
The scope’s tactical turrets enable precise and repeatable adjustments, facilitating target zeroing. The erector system ensures smooth zooming and precise point of aim and impact for enhanced performance.
Built to withstand extreme conditions, the Vortex Diamondback is O-ring sealed, nitrogen purged, fog-proof, and waterproof. Its durability against recoil and impact makes it an unstoppable choice.
Specifications
- Magnification: 4-16x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
- Reticle Type: MOA
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Eye Relief: 3.8 inches
- Field of View: 27.4-7.4 feet/100 yards
- Adjustment Graduation: 0.25 MOA
Pros
- The utilization of a first focal plane reticle enables precise holdover and ranging capabilities at any magnification
- Fully Multi-Coated optics
- The incorporation of XD lens elements enhances image quality by improving resolution and color fidelity.
- The inclusion of tactical turrets provides for accurate and repeatable adjustments, simplifying the zeroing process.
- The waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof construction ensures durability in a variety of conditions. Lastly, the versatile magnification range accommodates various shooting scenarios
- Hard Anodized Finish
- Precision-Force Spring and Precision-Glide Erector Systems
- Fast Focus Eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing.
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
2) Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50mm FFP Scope
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP 6-24×50 MOA is an exceptional riflescope tailored for long-range shooting and precision applications. With high magnification, advanced features, and rugged durability, it’s a must-have for serious shooters.
One outstanding feature of this Vortex scope is its first focal plane reticle, which maintains consistent size and subtensions throughout the magnification range. This ensures precise ranging and holdover, enabling accurate shots at any distance.
The scope also incorporates XD Lens Elements, enhancing image quality for clear and crisp views, even in low-light conditions.
For precise adjustments, the Vortex scope offers exposed tactical-style turrets, allowing for repeatable and accurate shot placements. The Diamondback Tactical FFP also includes a Precision-Glide Erector System, ensuring smooth zooming and reliable tracking while maintaining a consistent point of aim and impact for confident shot placement.
Specifications
- Magnification: 6-24x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
- Reticle Type: MOA
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Eye Relief: 3.9 inches
- Field of View: 18-4.5 feet/100 yards
- Adjustment Graduation: 0.25 MOA
- Length: 14.5 inches
- Weight: 24.6 ounces
Pros
- First focal plane reticle enables precise ranging and holdover at any magnification.
- XD lens elements produce superb image quality, sharpness, and color fidelity.
- Tactical turrets provide exact adjustments for refining shots with precision.
- Fully Multi-Coated optics
- Built with waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof construction for lasting durability.
- Wide magnification range ideal for long-range shooting and precision tasks.
- 10 yds to infinity Focus range
- Fast Focus Eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing.
- Hard Anodized Finish for low glare and durability
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
3) Vortex Venom 5-25x56mm FFP Riflescope
The Vortex Venom 5-25x56mm Riflescope is a high-quality optic designed for accurate shooting and long-range uses. It incorporates advanced features to enhance performance, including a wide range of magnification and a large objective lens for improved light transmission.
With its 5x to 25x magnification, Vortex Venom enables precise targeting at different distances. The 56mm objective lens enhances light capture, ensuring clear and bright images, even in low-light environments.
This riflescope is equipped with a durable glass-etched reticle, offering excellent visibility and longevity. It also features tactical turrets that facilitate easy and accurate adjustments for windage and elevation.
To ensure reliable performance in any weather conditions, the riflescope is constructed with O-ring seals and nitrogen purging, making it both waterproof and fog-proof.
Specifications
- Magnification: 5-25x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
- Reticle Type: Glass-Etched
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Eye Relief: 3.7 inches
- Field of View: 24.1-4.8 feet/100 yards
- Length: 15.5 inches
Pros
- Flexible magnification range suitable for various shooting needs
- Fully Multi-Coated Optics
- Fast Focus Eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing.
- Recoil and impact resistant
- Impressive light transmission for clear imaging in low-light environments.
- A sturdy and resilient build guarantees sustained performance.
- Convenient and accurate windage and elevation adjustments.
- All-weather reliability with a waterproof and fog-proof design.
- Glass-Etched Reticle
- Quick and easy magnification adjustments
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
4) Swampfox Kentucky Long Tactical 3-18x50mm Riflescope
Introducing the Swampfox Kentucky Long Tactical 3-18x50mm Riflescope – a high-performance optic designed to enhance your tactical shooting and hunting experience. With a versatile magnification range and a large objective lens, this riflescope delivers superior performance in various scenarios.
The Swampfox scope offers a magnification range of 3x to 18x, allowing for seamless transitions between close-quarters and long-range shooting. Its 50mm objective lens gathers ample light for clear and bright images, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Equipped with an illuminated reticle and adjustable brightness levels, this riflescope excels in low-light environments. The exposed tactical turrets enable quick and precise adjustments on the go, giving you a competitive advantage in the field.
Built to endure the toughest conditions, the Swampfox riflescope is IPX7 waterproof rated and nitrogen-purged to prevent fogging.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3-18x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
- Reticle Type: Illuminated
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Eye Relief: 3.8 inches
- Field of View: 35.6-6.2 feet/100 yards
- Length: 12.9 inches
- Weight: 26.3 ounces
Pros
- Offers a flexible range of magnification options to suit various shooting situations.
- It incorporates a generously sized objective lens to deliver vivid and sharp visuals even in dim lighting.
- 50 yds to infinity focus range
- Equipped with an illuminated reticle that can be adjusted for brightness, enhancing visibility.
- Features easily accessible tactical turrets, enabling swift and accurate modifications.
- Boasts a compact and lightweight design, facilitating effortless handling and mounting.
- Fully Multi-Coated Optical coating
Cons
- None
5) Burris RT-3 15x50mm FFP Riflescope
The Burris RT-3 15x50mm Riflescope is a highly versatile optic designed specifically for long-range shooting. With its impressive magnification range and large objective lens, this riflescope ensures unparalleled clarity and precision.
Featuring a variable magnification with a zoom range of 3x to 15x, the Burris RT-3 allows users to easily adapt to different shooting scenarios. Additionally, the riflescope boasts an illuminated reticle with adjustable brightness levels, providing enhanced visibility in various lighting conditions.
The scope’s Ballistic Plex reticle offers holdover points for accurate long-range shots, making it an ideal choice for hunters and shooters alike. And with its O-ring sealed and nitrogen-filled construction, the Burris RT-3 is resistant to water and fog, ensuring reliable performance in even the most challenging environments.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3x-15x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
- Reticle: Ballistic Plex
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5-4.25 inches
- Field of View: 34-7.5 feet at 100 yards
- Length: 13.5 inches
Pros
- Offers a wide magnification range suitable for different shooting distances.
- The sizable objective lens maximizes light transmission for optimal image clarity.
- Enhances visibility in low-light situations with its illuminated reticle.
- Built with a waterproof and fog-proof design to ensure long-lasting durability.
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum durable construction
- Facilitates precise long-range shooting with the assistance of the Ballistic Plex reticle
- Zero click stop on adjustments
- Side parallax adjustment
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
6) Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen II 6-24x50mm FFP Rifle Scope
The Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen II 6-24x50mm MOA Rifle Scope is the perfect tool for precision shooting at long ranges. This scope boasts a wide magnification range and advanced features, all at an affordable price point.
With a zoom range of 6x to 24x, shooters can easily adapt to varying distances. The 50mm objective lens ensures excellent light transmission, resulting in clear and bright images.
The Argos’ reticle remains proportional to the target at all magnification levels, allowing for accurate holdovers and ranging. Additionally, the Zero Stop System enables users to quickly return to their original zero after making elevation adjustments.
Specifications
- Magnification: 6x-24x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
- Reticle: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Eye Relief: 3.3 inches
- Field of View: 16.7-4.5 feet at 100 yards
- Length: 14.1 inches
Pros
- Offers a broad magnification range suitable for diverse shooting situations.
- Maximizes light transmission with its sizeable objective lens.
- The First Focal Plane reticle enables precise holdovers at any magnification.
- Allows for swift and accurate adjustments through exposed turrets.
- Incorporates a Zero Stop System for easy return to the original zero.
- Fully Multi-Coated Optics
- Extra protection on the exterior lenses for durability
Cons
- None
7) Trybe Optics 6-24x50mm FFP Rifle Scope
Introducing the Trybe Optics 6-24x50mm FFP Rifle Scope – a precision instrument designed to elevate your long-range shooting experience. Boasting a versatile magnification range and a large objective lens, this scope delivers unparalleled clarity and accuracy.
One of the standout features of this scope is its adjustable reticle size, which ensures precise ranging and holdovers at any power setting. With a magnification range of 6-24x, you can effectively acquire and engage targets at varying distances.
The Trybe Optics 50mm objective lens is a marvel in itself, offering exceptional light-gathering capabilities for bright and clear images. Additionally, the illuminated reticle enhances visibility in low-light conditions, making it an ideal choice for hunting or shooting in dimly lit environments.
Crafted with high-quality materials, this scope is built to withstand rugged conditions and deliver reliable performance.
Specifications
- Magnification: 6-24x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
- Reticle: Illuminated
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Field of View: Varies with magnification (e.g., 16.8-4.2 feet at 100 yards)
- Eye Relief: Varies with magnification (e.g., 3.9-3.7 inches)
Pros
- The magnification range offers versatility for various shooting scenarios.
- The large objective lens ensures clear and bright images.
- Enhanced visibility in low-light conditions is achieved through the illuminated reticle.
- Accurate zeroing is facilitated by precise turret adjustments.
- The durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
What Makes a Good FFP Scope?
First Focal Plane Reticle
In an FFP scope, the reticle stays proportional to the target regardless of magnification, ensuring accurate subtensions at all zoom levels.
Magnification Range
A good FFP scope typically offers a wide range of magnification levels to suit different shooting scenarios. This allows the shooter to engage targets at both close and long distances effectively.
Optical Quality
The quality of the glass and coatings used in the FFP scope’s optics greatly influences its performance. High-quality lenses with excellent light transmission, minimal distortion, and low chromatic aberration are desirable.
Durability and Construction
A reliable FFP scope should be built to withstand harsh environmental conditions and recoil forces. Look for scopes made from durable materials, such as aircraft-grade aluminum, that are shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof.
Turret Adjustments
FFP scopes often have exposed turrets for adjusting windage and elevation. Precise, repeatable, and tactile adjustments are crucial for making accurate corrections on the fly.
Illumination
Adjustable illumination settings and a well-designed illuminated reticle help maintain visibility without overpowering the target or causing excessive glare.
Brand Reputation
Opt for well-known and reputable brands that have a track record of producing high-quality optics. Research customer reviews and expert opinions to gain insights into the reliability, performance, and user experience of different FFP scopes.
Best FFP Scope under 500 FAQs
What does FFP stand for in the context of scopes?
FFP stands for First Focal Plane.
What is the significance of the First Focal Plane in a scope?
In a First Focal Plane (FFP) scope, the reticle’s size changes in relation to the target as you adjust the magnification, allowing for accurate holdovers and ranging at any magnification level.
What are the key factors to consider when choosing an FFP scope under $500?
Some key factors to consider include magnification range, reticle type, durability, image clarity, adjustment turrets, and overall build quality.
Conclusion
When considering the best FFP scope under 500, it is crucial to assess factors such as optical clarity, durability, reticle options, and overall performance. By choosing any of the scopes mentioned above, you’ll have found a scope that meets their needs without breaking the bank.
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