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Scorch · August 20, 2012, 02:30 PM

1st plane vs 2nd plane scopes. Most scopes are 2nd focal plane scopes, and the reticle does not change as you zoom. This casues issues with BDC scopes. The yardage spots have to shift as you zoom the scope, your field of view is getting smaller and each dot represents fewer yards if they did not shift. Some BDC scopes state they are only accurate at a certain zoom power. A mil-dot scope works well, as do the ranging reticles on Leupold or similar scopes. A 1st plane BDC scope will remain constant in POI throughout the zoom range.

I have limited experience with Nikons, and no experience with their BDC scopes.

August 20, 2012, 02:30 PM	#2
Scorch Senior Member Join Date: February 13, 2006 Location: Washington state Posts: 15,248	1st plane vs 2nd plane scopes. Most scopes are 2nd focal plane scopes, and the reticle does not change as you zoom. This casues issues with BDC scopes. The yardage spots have to shift as you zoom the scope, your field of view is getting smaller and each dot represents fewer yards if they did not shift. Some BDC scopes state they are only accurate at a certain zoom power. A mil-dot scope works well, as do the ranging reticles on Leupold or similar scopes. A 1st plane BDC scope will remain constant in POI throughout the zoom range. I have limited experience with Nikons, and no experience with their BDC scopes. __________________ Never try to educate someone who resists knowledge at all costs. But what do I know? Summit Arms Services