FFP vs SFP Rifle Scopes: What’s the Difference, and Which One Should You Choose?

FFP vs SFP Rifle Scopes: What’s the Difference, and Which One Should You Choose?

When shopping for your first rifle scope, you'll likely come across the terms FFP (First Focal Plane) and SFP (Second Focal Plane). If you're new to shooting or hunting, it might feel like technical jargon — but understanding this one difference can help you make the right decision for your style of hunting and save you from frustration in the field.

Let’s break it down in simple terms, with examples that apply to South African hunters.

The Basics: What Is FFP and SFP?

• FFP (First Focal Plane): In an FFP scope, the size of the reticle (crosshairs) changes as you zoom in or out. The big advantage is that your holdovers and range estimations stay accurate at any magnification.

• SFP (Second Focal Plane): In an SFP scope, the reticle stays the same size no matter how much you zoom. But your holdover marks are only accurate at one specific magnification — usually maximum zoom.

The Bushveld vs. Kalahari Analogy

Imagine you're hunting in the bushveld, where shots are taken quickly and at shorter distances (50–200 metres). You’re moving through thick cover and need fast target acquisition.

Now imagine the Kalahari or Free State plains, where you might take a shot at 300–600 metres. You have more time, you're likely using a bipod or rest, and precise distance estimation matters.

• For bushveld-style hunting, an SFP scope is often better: it's simpler, the reticle is always the same size, and you usually hunt on lower magnification.

• For long-range, open terrain, an FFP scope shines: your holdover points stay true at any zoom, giving you more precision.

What Most Hunters Buy

At Sons of Guns, most first-time buyers choose SFP scopes, especially in popular magnification ranges like:

• 4-12x40

• 3-18x44

• 5-25x50

• 6-24x56

Why? These scopes are easier to understand and use, especially for someone still learning concepts like MOA and MIL. And for most hunting scenarios in South Africa, an SFP scope gets the job done beautifully.

What We Recommend for Beginners

If you're new to rifle optics, we recommend starting with an SFP scope. It's more intuitive, and you'll spend less time worrying about whether your holdover marks are still accurate. Focus on building confidence in your shooting first.

If you later move into precision shooting or long-range hunting, you can always upgrade to an FFP scope when you're ready.

We also recommend watching videos by experts like Ryan Cleckner on YouTube. He explains complicated topics like MOA and MIL in a way that's easy to understand.

Need Help Choosing? That’s What We’re Here For

Every hunter is different. What works for someone in the Karoo might not suit you in the Limpopo bushveld. If you're not sure which scope fits your needs, visit Sons of Guns in-store or online. We'll help you choose the perfect optic for your rifle, your region, and your goals.

Let’s make sure your first scope is the right one.