Re: Mil-Dot/ BDC Rectical
A first focal plane Mil or MOAR type reticle will be much easier to use, as the subtention is the same at all magnification ranges. The BDC is sort of like the broken watch, in that it can be correct at cetain times or situations.
If you are hunting big game under 300Y then you can get by with pretty much any reticle. If you will be shooting target and steel at verious distances the Mil or MOA reticle will make for eaiser adjustment.
Now all that said, the Nikon you posted, with a 308W 178 Amax approx 2680 fps, subtends the drops at 2, 4.5, 7, and 11 moa. These are the same as the Vortex BDC and they are approx 200, 300, 400, and 500Y. At least out here at 5000 ft 70 degrees.
With a 168 VLD the drops are approx 200, 300, 385, and 480. See how it can get confusing if you do not use the same load.