How to Determine the Magnification of a Rifle Scope? A Detailed Explanation of the Differences Between FFP and SFP
Welcome to the optical world of Aquilifer! As a brand specializing in precision aiming equipment, we understand that a suitable rifle scope can bring a qualitative leap to the shooting experience. Many shooters often feel confused by "magnification parameters" and "FFP/SFP" when choosing a scope — in fact, there's no need to struggle. The key to selecting the right tool lies in understanding your own needs. Today, we'll break down these core concepts and introduce how the Aquilifer series scopes perfectly adapt to different scenarios.
How to Determine the Magnification of a Rifle Scope? The Numbers Hold Great Significance
When you pick up a scope, the first thing you'll notice is markings like "1-8X24" or "5-25X56". These numbers aren't random; each carries crucial information:
The preceding numbers "1-8" or "5-25" represent the magnification range: For example, "1-8X" means the scope can be adjusted from 1x (close to the naked eye's field of view) to 8x (8 times magnification); "5-25X" indicates a minimum of 5x and a maximum of 25x, suitable for long-distance observation.
The latter numbers "24" or "56" represent the objective lens diameter (in mm): A larger objective lens allows more light intake, resulting in a clearer field of view in low-light environments (such as dawn or dusk). For instance, a scope with a 56mm objective lens will perform far better than one with a 24mm objective lens in dim light.
Simply put, magnification determines "how far you can see", and the objective lens diameter determines "how clearly you can see". Choosing the right set of parameters is half the battle.
Differences Between FFP and SFP: The Core Lies in "Reticle", the Impact in "Accuracy"
Beyond magnification, FFP (First Focal Plane) and SFP (Second Focal Plane) are another set of unavoidable concepts. The core difference between them lies in whether the reticle (the scale lines inside the scope) changes with magnification — this directly affects shooting accuracy and operational logic.
SFP (Second Focal Plane): Simple and Direct, Ideal for Quick Aiming
The reticle of an SFP scope is fixed on the "second focal plane", meaning no matter how you adjust the magnification, the size of the reticle remains unchanged. The reticle's scales (such as for range finding or angle measurement) are only accurate at maximum magnification; at lower magnifications, the reticle serves only as a reference for aiming and cannot be used for precise measurements.
Advantages: Easy to operate; the field of view is cleaner at low magnifications (the reticle won't appear too large); suitable for quickly capturing targets at close range; and more affordable.
Suitable scenarios: Close combat, hunting (e.g., deer, wild boar), and sports shooting where quick switching of the field of view is required.
FFP (First Focal Plane): Accuracy First, Suitable for Long-Distance Precision Shooting
The reticle of an FFP scope is fixed on the "first focal plane" and scales synchronously with magnification — the higher the magnification, the proportionally larger the reticle. This means the reticle's scales are accurate at any magnification; even at 3x or 25x, you can precisely measure range and calculate ballistic compensation using the reticle.
Advantages: Accurate across the entire magnification range; suitable for long-distance shooting requiring extreme precision; no frequent calibration needed.
Suitable scenarios: Long-distance hunting (e.g., antelopes, distant targets), precision shooting competitions, tactical sniping, and other scenarios with extremely high accuracy requirements.
Aquilifer Series Scopes: Covering Both SFP and FFP, There's Always One for You
Now that you understand the basic concepts, let's look at Aquilifer's star products — we've created a full range of scopes covering SFP and FFP for different needs, each rigorously calibrated to ensure optical performance perfectly matches scenario requirements.
Aquilifer SFP Series: Quick Response, Mastering Short to Medium Distances
If you need a simple, cost-effective scope for quick aiming at short to medium distances, the Aquilifer SFP series is an excellent choice:
1-8X24 (SFP): Light and compact (24mm objective lens), 1x low magnification is close to the naked eye's field of view, and 8x meets medium-distance observation needs. Suitable for close combat, home defense, or hunting small prey, it's easy to carry.
1-10X28 (SFP): Based on 1-8X, it increases the maximum magnification to 10x. The 28mm objective lens provides better light intake, making it suitable for medium-distance hunting at dawn/dusk and quickly locking moving targets (e.g., rabbits, foxes).
2-16X50 (SFP): The 50mm large objective lens delivers excellent low-light performance, and the 2-16x range covers medium to long distances. Suitable for mountain hunting or fixed-target shooting, the reticle is accurate at maximum magnification, balancing precision and quick aiming.
Aquilifer FFP Series: Extreme Precision, Conquering Long Distances
Pursuing long-distance precision shooting? The Aquilifer FFP series, with its full-magnification accurate reticle, gives you confidence in every aim:
3-12X56 (FFP): The 56mm extra-large objective lens ensures clarity in low-light environments. The 3-12x range covers medium to long distances, suitable for precision hunting (e.g., deer, sheep) or wildlife observation. The reticle scales synchronously with magnification, allowing precise range measurement at any magnification.
4-16X44 (FFP): The 44mm objective lens balances portability and light intake. The 4-16x range is suitable for medium to long-range tactical shooting or competitions. The full-magnification accurate reticle makes ballistic calculation more efficient, even for beginners.
5-25X56 (FFP): Aquilifer's flagship model, featuring 5-25x ultra-high magnification paired with a 56mm objective lens. Designed specifically for ultra-long-distance precision shooting (e.g., targets over 1000 meters), its reticle precision rivals professional sniper equipment, making it an ideal choice for experienced shooters.
Choose the Right Tool for More Confident Shooting
Like thermal devices, there's no "absolutely best" scope — only the "most suitable" one. Aquilifer offers both the simplicity and speed of SFP and the extreme precision of FFP. Whether you need agile responses at close range or pinpoint accuracy at long distances, there's always a reliable partner for you.
Now, explore the Aquilifer series scopes and find your perfect precision tool!