First of Second focal plane

[WxWatcher]

So I finally finished my build and since I'm running a RA Ultramatch barrel (16", 223 wylde), I figured I might as well get a variable powered optic instead of a red dot to help make the most of the barrel. Do to space limitations of where I shoot, I would say my longest shot would be 300 yards, with a lion share of shooting being under 200 yards. I want to keep a true 1x at the low power setting so seems I'm limited to 4x, with a few 5x or 6x floating out there. I know what the difference is between a 1st and 2nd plane, but am wanting some real world feedback from fellow Hiders and their experience with both/either. My budget isn't huge, would say $400 (not including mount), but I do get a good deal on Vortex glass if there is one recommended that generally exceeds $400 msrp. Thanks in advance and cheers.

 

[jrbet83]

2nd. Your not using the scope to judge distance anyways, so save your money.

 

[Little gator]

Vortex PST 1-4 has great reviews. im not sure what focal plane it is. they normally go for about $500. i don't know how good of a deal you can get but talked to Opticsspecialist (username here) he is a site vendor in his words, "we take care of hide members."

 

[George Mac]

I believe that first focal plane in anything under 15x is a waste.
Above 15x when you are changing your magnification to improve field of view or reduce perceived wobble yet still want to use your holdovers a first focal plane is outstanding. However, at lower power the reticle subtentions are so close together that they become impractical to use.

 

[Rob01]

Yup the Vortex Viper PST 1-4x would work well. With lower power optics like that the focal plane isn;t really important. I run a Vortex Razor 1-6 in 3 gun and it's SFP and never had a problem.

Here's a video on the PST and link to site.

http://www.vortextactical.com/product/vortex-viper-pst-1-4x24-riflescope-with-tmcq-moa-reticle

Vortex Viper PST 1-4x24 Riflescope - YouTube

 

[George Mac]

Notice in the photo below, I use the second focal plane NXS 2.5-10x 24 on the 18" AR (0 to 740 yards). However, when moving to longer range targets I switched over to the bolt gun with a first focal plane 5-25x (740 to 1740 yards). Both scopes are great when employed with their own purpose in mind.

 

[George Mac]

OK, Rob has a great point. I apologize for thinking in terms of "precision" rifle work only.

Vortex, Kahles, S&B and a few others have a variable power firsts focal plane scopes that basically become outstanding "red dot" optics yet give you a great reticle when you need to dial in a bit more magnification. The Kahles 1-6 absolutely rocks.