The reticle is a very important part of the rifle scope and a good one will play a huge part in accuracy when shooting. Two very popular reticles are the dead-hold BDC and the Vplex. Both of these are good in different ways and preference depends on the needs of the shooter.
This article looks at the main differences between these two reticles and what each one of them is good at.
Vortex Dead-Hold BDC
This is a more detailed reticle designed like a crosshair but with additional hash marks on both the vertical and horizontal lines. These hash marks are placed at predetermined levels as holdover points to help effectively compensate for bullet drops (on the vertical post) and crosswinds (horizontal post).
The BDC reticle is very effective when aiming at various distances and in different environmental conditions, each hashmark is used to fire at different distances without the need for further adjustment, on the turret.
It’s however good to note that the reticle has to be calibrated to the ballistics of the rifle and the round that’s being used. The scope has also to be properly zeroed, for accuracy.
When to use the Dead-Hold BDC
This being an advanced reticle with more information to aid with the accuracy of the target, it is ideal for more weighty applications, such as tactical applications.
This also implies that the shooter must be more experienced and capable of performing the necessary ballistic calculations to determine the trajectory of the bullet and utilize the optimal hashmark for the distance intended to shoot.
In addition, it should be used when shooting in an area prone to crosswinds, as the reticle will assist you in adjusting to bullet drift.
The BDC is also ideal for long-range shots, whether hunting or in competition, and for moving targets that change distance instantaneously.
Here are some of the pros and cons of the BDC reticle;
Pros
- Makes shooting at different distances easy
- Target acquisition is easy
- Long-range effectiveness
- Good for hunting moving targets
- Compensates for crosswinds
Cons
- Complicated for beginners
Vortex Vplex Reticle
Some shooters prefer a cleaned-out reticle and that’s where the Vplex reticle comes in. It’s a simple crosshair with just the vertical and horizontal posts without any additional markings.
This reticle may require some advanced skills to work the distance but its generally perfect for close and medium targets. All you need to do is place that target in the middle of the crosshair and most likely will end up hitting the target if your hands are steady enough.
When to use Vplex
V-plex is ideal for a shooter who is just starting. A first-time shooter doesn’t need something complex.
Additionally, it’s ideal for close and medium-distant targets. For simple tasks like varmint hunting and plinking where quick target acquisition is required, a miss wouldn’t likely result in danger.
It’s because of the simplified nature of this reticle that the shooter doesn’t have to crunch numbers in trying to equate the ballistics of the rifle to the bullet drop. So, if you are bad in math stick to the VPlex
Pros
- Perfect for close and medium target
- Easy to learn by beginners
- Draws the shooter’s eye to the center
- Doesn’t obscure the target in any way
Cons
- Difficult to hit the target at a distance.
FAQs
Does the Dead-Hold BDC reticle require specific ammunition?
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is calibrated for a variety of calibers and bullet weights, but it operates best when used with ammunition that meets its design parameters. The scope manual will go into detail about this.
Is the V-Plex reticle suitable for long-range shooting?
The V-Plex reticle can be used for long-range shooting, but it lacks the extra aiming points for bullet drop and windage that the Dead-Hold BDC has. A reticle incorporating ballistic correction may be better suited for long-range precision.
Can I use the Dead-Hold BDC reticle for close-range shooting?
Yes, the Dead-Hold BDC reticle can be used for close-range shooting, but its additional hash marks might not be necessary or as useful at close distances. However, it remains effective and provides accurate aim even at close-range
Conclusion
This article goes through all the differences between the two reticles, and as you have seen choosing between the Dead-Hold BDC and Vplex reticle will depend on how you intend to use it. The Dead-Hold BDC has a modest advantage because it can provide additional information to the shooter to help with accuracy.
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