Best FFP Scopes for Deer Hunting
Are you trying to find the best FFP scopes for deer hunting? We’ll look at the features to look for when choosing the best FFP scope for deer hunting and make suggestions for the best FFP scopes on the market. This guide will help you select the best FFP scope for your needs and budget, whether you are a seasoned hunter or new to the sport.
A lot of outdoor enthusiasts like deer hunting as a pastime. Hunting requires the proper gear, though, in order to be successful. High-quality FFP scopes for deer hunting are among the most essential pieces of equipment for any deer shooter.
Hunters can take steady, accurate shots at various distances when using an FFP scope, even in low light.
What is an FFP scope?
Understanding FFP scopes is not as tough as you may imagine. FFP, or first focal plane, is short for front focal plane. Simply put, it indicates that the rifle scope’s reticle assembly is physically placed in front of the magnifying assembly.
So, when you vary the magnification, the reticle will adjust in size. The size of the crosshairs will grow as you increase the power. Conversely, as you reduce the power range, the size of the crosshairs will grow smaller.
Advantages of FFP Scopes for Deer Hunting
- It is simpler to shoot accurately at various distances because the reticle maintains its proportion to the target when you zoom in and out.
- An FFP reticle provides precise holdovers at all magnifications, enabling you to shoot farther with greater accuracy.
- FFP scopes are ideal for dawn or dusk deer hunting because they frequently include bigger objective lenses that gather more light and provide a brighter image in low-light conditions.
- With FFP scopes, it is simple to calculate the range of your shot and adjust your aim because you can range your target using the reticle at any magnification.
Let’s now take a look at the best FFP scopes for deer hunting that made it onto our list!
Best FFP Scopes for Deer Hunting Comprehensive Reviews
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Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm 30mm Tube First Focal Plane Rifle Scope
One of the best FFP Scopes for Deer Hunting designed for long-distance shooting is the Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm Scope.
Since it allows for precise holdovers at any magnification, the scope’s first focus plane reticle is a great choice for precision shooting.
The premium scope’s 44mm objective lens and 4-16x magnification range ensuring that the shooter always sees clear, brilliant images.
The scope is made of aircraft-grade aluminum and has a strong 30mm tube for further toughness and durability. Its robust construction and precision-adjustable turrets make it a fantastic choice for hunters and long-range shooters.
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
- Magnification: 4 – 16 x
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 2.75 – 11 mm
- Finish: Hard Anodized
- Field of View, Linear: 6.7 – 26.9 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.8 in
- Weight: 1 oz
- Length: 14 in
- Parallax: 20 yds to infinity
Pros
- Magnification range is broad.
- High-quality materials are used.
- Multi-Coated Optical Coating.
- Strong and durable aircraft grade aluminum structure.
- It is fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof.
- Fast focus eyepiece for quick reticle focusing.
Cons
- Non-illuminated.
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NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm ZeroStop Rifle Scope
The most discerning professional users from all over the world choose the NightForce ATACR ZeroStop Rifle Scope for design, construction, and selection.
The ED glass used in all ATACR scopes produces dazzling images, excellent color contrast, and high resolving power, enabling you to detect the smallest targets at great distances.
We are aware that the ATACR series of scopes is quite expensive, but this hasn’t stopped enthusiasts and competitive shooters from acquiring one or more.
NightForce is the sole brand you should use if you want your shooting setup to have extreme quality and features and extreme accuracy at extreme long ranges.
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
- Magnification: 5 – 25 x
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 2.3 – 8.3 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 4.92 – 18.7 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Weight: 38 oz
- Parallax: 45 yds to infinity
Pros
- Allows you a simple return to your zero point.
- Light transmission, image brightness, and color contrast are all outstanding.
- Target engagements at previously regarded “out of range” distances are now possible due to extensive elevation travel.
- Reticule values that are consistent.
- The XtremeSpeed thread allows for quick diopter adjustments.
Cons
- It is pricey.
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Burris Veracity 3-15x50mm 30 mm Tube First Focal Plane (FFP) Rifle Scope
The Burris 3-15x50mm Veracity Riflescope is an excellent optic made for long-distance, accurate shooting. It has a broad magnification range, a sizable objective lens diameter, and exceptional adaptability and light-gathering abilities.
The objective lens diameter of the Veracity riflescope is 50 mm. A bigger objective lens collects more light, enhancing brightness, clarity, and performance in dimly lit environments.
A broad field of view of 33 feet to 7 feet per 100 yards is provided by the Veracity Riflescope. A large field of view enables shooters to gather targets quickly while maintaining situational awareness.
The riflescope is constructed to resist difficult shooting circumstances. Because it is made of high-quality materials and is waterproof and fog-proof, it will operate effectively in a variety of weather circumstances.
The riflescope has a first focal plane reticle, which allows for precise shot placement at higher zoom settings because it maintains its size independent of magnification.
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Magnification: 3 – 15 x
- Reticle: Ballistic Plex E1 FFP
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 3.3 – 16 mm
- Finish: Matte
- Field of View, Linear: 7.5 – 36 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.5 – 4.25 in
- Weight: 25.1 oz
Pros
- The FFP reticle stays the same size for precision aiming.
- Magnification range is broad.
- Light transmission and low-light performance are enhanced.
- Capped tactical turrets prevent accidental changes.
- Waterproof and fog-proof construction ensures longevity in a variety of weather conditions.
Cons
- Non-Illuminated.
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SIG SAUER Tango-MSR FFP 1-10x26mm Rifle Scope 34mm Tube First Focal Plane
Another accurate optic that works well for long-range shooting is the SIG SAUER Tango-MSR FFP 1-10x26mm rifle scope. The first focal plane reticle of the sight, which keeps its proportion to the target at whatever magnification, allows for accurate long-range shooting.
The scope is built solidly, with a durable aluminum body and a waterproof design. This specifically ensures dependable field performance—even inclement weather.
Range and windage adjustments are straightforward thanks to bullet drop correction and an illuminated reticle that can be adjusted to fit lighting conditions. Furthermore, the scope’s premium glass and multi-coated lens produce clear, bright images with no distortion even in dim lighting.
Due to its adaptable magnification range and cutting-edge features, this rifle scope is a fantastic choice.
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 26 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 10 x
- Reticle: BDC
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 2.6 – 7.6 mm
- Finish: Hardcoat Anodized
- Field of View, Linear: 12 – 120 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.22 – 3.54 in
- Weight: 21.9 oz
Pros
- Anodized hardcoat finish.
- Optical coating called Spectracoat.
- It is simple to operate and modify.
- Suited to a variety of systems and weapons.
- Performance that is fog-, water-, and shock-proof.
Cons
- Eye relief could be improved.
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Vortex Viper PST Gen II 2-10x32mm
An great all-around optic, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II is appropriate for a range of shooting duties.
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 2-10x32mm Rifle Scope, designed for precise shooting, offers great performance with a 30mm tube that improves light transmission and widens the field of view.
The scope has a first focus plane reticle, which appears to change size as the magnification changes while maintaining proportion to the target. Its range of magnification makes it suitable for both up-close and far-off shooting.
The Viper PST Gen II is constructed with high-quality materials and has a durable design. It is additionally fog-proof, waterproof, and shockproof, ensuring reliable performance at all times.
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
- Magnification: 2 – 10 x
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 3.2 – 16 mm
- Finish: Hard Anodized
- Field of View, Linear: 11.7 – 58.3 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.2 in
- Weight: 26.3 oz
Pros
- Excellent optics.
- Construction that is long-lasting.
- The design is shockproof and waterproof.
- Simple to use.
- Optical Coating with a Fully Multi-Coated Surface.
Cons
- Battery life of 150 hours might be improved.
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Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope
A high-performance optic, like the Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope, is necessary for long-distance shooting. Its broad 56mm objective lens offers exceptional clarity and brightness in low light, and its flexible 5–25x magnification range offers a wide range of magnification.
Another highlight of the Mark 5HD is its complex reticle system, which includes a first focal plane reticle that permits exact ranging and holdovers at any magnification.
The scope’s body is made of aircraft-grade aluminum, which is durable, light, waterproof, and fog-proof. It is strong and hardy enough to resist the demands of the field.
For devoted long-range shooters, the Leupold Mark 5HD is a top-tier scope thanks to its cutting-edge features and durable construction.
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
- Magnification: 5 – 25 x
- Tube Diameter: 35 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 2.2 mm
- Finish: Matte
- Field of View, Linear: 4.2 – 20.4 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.6 – 3.8 in
- Weight: 907.18 g
Pros
- Lightweight and compact.
- Outstanding clarity and brightness.
- Magnification range is versatile.
- Construction that is tough and long-lasting.
- Optical Coating with Scratch Resistance.
Cons
- Expensive
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EOTech Vudu 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope, 34mm Tube, First Focal Plane
The Vudu 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope is a premium, high-performing optic designed for use with long-range shooting. This EOTec scope has a flexible 5-25x magnification range and a 50mm objective lens.
The scope’s durable aircraft-grade aluminum structure and scratch-resistant lens coatings are made to withstand challenging circumstances.
The lighted reticle and fully multi-coated lens surfaces of the Vudu’s optical technology enable it to generate bright, sharp, and clear images even in low light.
The Vudu’s protected windage turret ensures accuracy and precision over an extended length of time, while the open elevation turret enables quick and easy adjustments.
It is adaptable enough to be used for a variety of shooting distances thanks to the magnification range. Additionally, the sight has a first focal plane reticle, which guarantees that the reticle’s subtensions are precise at all magnification settings.
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Magnification: 5 – 25 x
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 2.1 – 5.5 mm
- Illumination Color: Red
- Finish: Hard Anodized
- Field of View, Linear: 4.7 – 23.3 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 92 – 94 mm
- Weight: 29.5 oz
Pros
- Even in low-light situations, visuals are clear, crisp, and bright.
- Durable construction.
- Quick and simple to adjust.
- Parallax from 45 meters to infinity.
- Water-resistant, fog-resistant, and shock-resistant.
Cons
- Water resistance is limited to 1 meter.
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Swampfox Kentucky Long 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope
The Swampfox Kentucky Long 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope is an optical sight that performs very well for precise shooting. It includes a 50mm objective lens that offers an excellent light transmission and a large field of view even in dim lighting.
The scope’s lighted reticle may be easily changed for windage and elevation, making target acquisition and aiming simple. The scope also includes a side parallax adjustment for improved accuracy at extended distances.
High-quality components were used in the scope’s construction, such as aircraft-grade aluminum and completely multi-coated lenses, to ensure its long lifespan and image clarity.
Additionally, it is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, making it a dependable choice in challenging circumstances.
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Magnification: 3 – 18 x
- Reticle: Illuminated Sharpshooter MOA
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 11.15 – 2.2 mm
- Illumination Color: Red
- Finish: Matte
- Field of View, Linear: 34.9 – 6 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Weight: 28.2 oz
Pros
- Durable construction.
- At any magnification, the glass is excellent.
- Sharpshooter MOA reticle illuminated for easier target acquisition and aiming.
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
- Optics with multiple coatings.
Cons
- Short eye relief
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Things to Consider Before Buying the Best FFP Scopes for Deer Hunting
Optics Quality
This is extremely helpful while hunting deer in various settings, such as dark woodlands, wide-open spaces, or low light levels. Edge-to-edge clarity, strong light transmission, and superb optical performance with little distortion are all characteristics of a good FFP scope.
Construction and durability
Quality scopes are built to last and are lightweight, preferably from aircraft-grade aluminum or materials similar to it. They should also be fog-proof, waterproof, and shockproof, with good sealing to shield the internal parts from dust and moisture.
Reticle Design
The reticle should be made with clarity, accuracy, and consideration for the shooting application. In order to provide the essential reference points for aiming and calculating distances, it must strike a balance between visibility and subtlety. It should also avoid obstructing the target.
Magnification
A decent FFP scope should include a variety of magnification levels, allowing for close-range engagement as well as long-range precise shooting.
Best FFP Scopes for Deer Hunting FAQs
What size scope is best for deer hunting?
Depending on the terrain you’re hunting in and the distance of your shot, an FFP scope’s ideal magnification for deer hunting will vary. For deer hunting, though, a magnification range of 3-9x or 4-12x is usually a suitable choice because it strikes a decent balance between magnification and field of view.
What are FFP scopes good for?
The majority of competition long-distance shooters choose an FFP scope. To be able to shoot with more precision, they want magnification and a reticle system that adapts to the magnification. An FFP scope is frequently used by long-range hunters, a type of hunting that is getting more and more common.
Why is an FFP scope beneficial for deer hunting?
Without changing the scope’s magnification, an FFP scope enables you to calculate range and fire precise rounds at a range of distances. It improves precision by maintaining a consistent relationship between the reticle and the target.
What is the difference between FFP and SFP scopes?
A FFP scope’s reticle size changes as the magnification is changed, in contrast to an SFP scope’s constant reticle size regardless of magnification. Accordingly, an FFP scope offers consistent ranging and holdover at any magnification, whereas an SFP scope necessitates the employment of a certain magnification setting for precise ranging and holdover.
Conclusion
In conclusion, because to their accurate holdovers, adaptability, and improved low-light performance, FFP scopes are a fantastic choice for deer hunting.
The accuracy, range estimation, and overall hunting success can all be improved by investing in a high-quality FFP scope designed for deer hunting.
The FFP scope that best suits your needs and price range for deer hunting is the one that you already own.