Magnification vs first focal plane etc.

[chevytruck_83]

Im trying to decide between a scope like the sightron siii 10-50x56 with mildot or something like the vortex viper pst first focal plane. I realize these are completly different scopes built with different objectives in mind. I shoot mostly targets so i like my magnification for seeing hits. I understand that for range estimation and reticle usage the first focal plane makes it easier. My question is. Wouldnt a shooter be better off getting familiar with what each mildot is worth on say 50x, 25x and 10 and keep a chart handy. Once familiar you can make good range calculations in addition to having the magnification. I always read yea but my 16 is really clear... But can you really establish more information about a target with a clear 16 or a pretty darn clear 50? Besides, when you turn down a variable 10-50 like the sightron guess what. Looks pretty darn clear to me. Anyway, Opinions and insight welcomed. thanks, nick.

 

[slm9s]

there's a few more things to consider. Amount of elevation is one. The 10-50 siii only has 50 MOA, so 25 from center to max up. If you need to dial from 100 yard zero to 1200 yards, the 10-50 probably won't cut it.

Another concern is thinking you're on 25 power and dialing your dope, but forgetting that you had changed the power down to 15 or something and you'll miss with a SFP scope. Its one thing to know your dope at 10, 25, and 50 power, its another to not forget in the heat of the moment what power you're on. A FFP scope eliminates this worry.

For mostly target shooting, "most" use high mag SFP scopes like a 12-42 NF or 10-50 siii. For more tactical shooting, where unknown distance targets are ranged and engaged frequently, a 3-15 or 5-25 NF/S&B/etc in FFP is more useful.

 

[chuckbuster243]

I do just that with my millet lrs. I know what the value is at a given power translated to the target I am viewing. I also have a 10-50 sightron for targets. The millet is great for unknown distance but I love the power of the sightron. I dont feel like first fp scopes are all that much better for ranging. I think as you said make a chart for a power and roll on. Matt

 

[chevytruck_83]

I definitely could see myself making a miscalculation like your saying slim but not being in a life or death situation or even a high stress match I dont see the big concern. Im hopeing to get on a range to shoot up to 1000 but i dont forsee anything beyond that being realistic. not for me anyway. so the added adjustment may never really be a usable feature.