How to Use a Second Focal Plane Scope (SFP) for Optimal Rifle Accuracy

How to Use a Second Focal Plane Scope

When it comes to choosing a rifle scope, there are two main types to consider: first focal plane (FFP) and second focal plane (SFP). Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at second focal plane scopes, discussing what they are, how they work, and their pros and cons. We’ll also provide some tips on how to use a SFP scope effectively.

So, if you’re thinking about buying a second focal plane scope, or if you’re just curious about how they work, read on!

Step	Instructions	Image
1	Mount the scope to your rifle.
2	Turn on the scope and adjust the focus until the reticle is clear.
3	Adjust the magnification of the scope until you can see your target clearly.

A second focal plane scope (SFP) is a type of rifle scope that has the reticle located in the second focal plane (SFP). This means that the reticle does not change size as you zoom in or out, unlike a first focal plane scope (FFP) reticle.

SFP scopes are often less expensive than FFP scopes, and they are also easier to use for some shooting applications. However, FFP scopes offer some advantages over SFP scopes, such as the ability to hold a consistent holdover for different ranges.

In this article, we will discuss the basics of SFP scopes, including how they work, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to use them.

Understanding Second Focal Plane Scopes

A second focal plane scope has the reticle located in the second focal plane (SFP). This means that the reticle does not change size as you zoom in or out. The reticle is located behind the objective lens, and it is projected onto the image plane.

The image plane is the surface where the image is formed. In a SFP scope, the image plane is located behind the eyepiece. This means that the reticle is always in focus, regardless of the magnification setting.

SFP scopes are often less expensive than FFP scopes, and they are also easier to use for some shooting applications. However, FFP scopes offer some advantages over SFP scopes, such as the ability to hold a consistent holdover for different ranges.

How Does a Second Focal Plane Scope Work?

A second focal plane scope works by projecting the reticle onto the image plane. The reticle is located behind the objective lens, and it is projected onto the image plane by a series of lenses.

The image plane is the surface where the image is formed. In a SFP scope, the image plane is located behind the eyepiece. This means that the reticle is always in focus, regardless of the magnification setting.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Second Focal Plane Scopes

SFP scopes have a number of advantages over FFP scopes, including:

• Less expensive: SFP scopes are often less expensive than FFP scopes, making them a good option for budget-minded shooters.
• Easier to use: SFP scopes are easier to use for some shooting applications, such as hunting. This is because the reticle is always in focus, regardless of the magnification setting.

However, SFP scopes also have a number of disadvantages, including:

• Less precise holdover: SFP scopes are not as precise for holdover shooting as FFP scopes. This is because the reticle changes size as you zoom in or out.
• Less versatile: SFP scopes are less versatile than FFP scopes. This is because the reticle is not as useful for long-range shooting or precision shooting.

Using a Second Focal Plane Scope

Using a second focal plane scope is relatively simple. Here are the steps involved:

1. Mount the scope on your rifle. Make sure that the scope is properly aligned and that the eye relief is comfortable.
2. Focus the scope. Use the focus knob to focus the scope on a distant object.
3. Use the reticle to aim. The reticle is used to aim the rifle at your target. The reticle will be in focus at all magnification settings.

Here are some tips for using a second focal plane scope:

• Use the reticle to estimate range. The reticle can be used to estimate the range to your target. The size of the target in the reticle can be used to estimate the distance.
• Use the reticle to holdover. The reticle can be used to holdover for different ranges. The reticle will change size as you zoom in or out, so you will need to adjust your holdover accordingly.
• Practice using the reticle. The best way to learn how to use a second focal plane scope is to practice. Practice using the reticle to aim and holdover at different targets.

Second focal plane scopes are a popular choice for many shooters. They are less expensive than FFP scopes, and they are easier to use for some shooting applications. However, SFP scopes do have some disadvantages, such as less precise holdover and less versatility.

If you are considering purchasing a second focal plane scope, it is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages to determine if it is the right choice for you.

How To Use A Second Focal Plane Scope?

Second focal plane (SFP) scopes are a type of riflescope that has the reticle located in the second focal plane (behind the objective lens). This means that the reticle’s size and position do not change as you zoom in or out, which can be helpful for making accurate shots at different distances. However, SFP scopes can also make it difficult to judge the distance to a target, as the reticle will appear to grow larger as you zoom in.

Here are the steps on how to use a second focal plane scope:

1. Mount the scope to your rifle.
2. Turn on the scope and adjust the brightness and contrast to your liking.
3. Focus the scope on a distant object.
4. Use the reticle to aim at your target.

Adjusting the Zoom

To adjust the zoom on a second focal plane scope, simply turn the zoom ring on the side of the scope. The zoom ring will be marked with numbers that indicate the magnification level.

Adjusting the Parallax

Parallax error occurs when the object you are aiming at and the reticle are not in the same focal plane. This can cause the reticle to appear to move when you move your head. To correct parallax error, use the parallax adjustment knob on the side of the scope. The parallax adjustment knob will be marked with a distance scale.

Judging Distance

Judging distance with a second focal plane scope can be difficult, as the reticle will appear to grow larger as you zoom in. However, there are a few ways to estimate the distance to a target.

• Use the stadia lines. Some second focal plane scopes have stadia lines on the reticle. Stadia lines are thin lines that are spaced evenly apart. You can use the stadia lines to estimate the distance to a target by comparing the size of the target to the size of the stadia lines.
• Use the range estimation reticle. Some second focal plane scopes have a range estimation reticle. This reticle is designed to help you estimate the distance to a target. The reticle will have a series of numbers that correspond to different distances.
• Use a laser rangefinder. A laser rangefinder is a device that uses a laser beam to measure the distance to a target. Laser rangefinders are very accurate and can be used to quickly and easily estimate the distance to a target.

Troubleshooting Second Focal Plane Scopes

If your second focal plane scope is not working properly, there are a few things you can check.

• Make sure that the scope is mounted correctly to your rifle.
• Make sure that the scope is turned on and that the batteries are not dead.
• Try adjusting the brightness and contrast of the scope.
• Try adjusting the zoom and parallax settings.
• If the problem persists, you may need to have the scope serviced or repaired.

Cleaning a Second Focal Plane Scope

To clean a second focal plane scope, you will need a soft cloth, some lens cleaning fluid, and a small brush.

1. Remove the scope from your rifle.
2. Use the soft cloth to wipe the outside of the scope.
3. Apply a small amount of lens cleaning fluid to the cloth.
4. Gently wipe the lenses of the scope.
5. Use the brush to clean any dirt or debris that is stuck to the lenses.
6. Reattach the scope to your rifle.

Storing a Second Focal Plane Scope

When storing a second focal plane scope, it is important to protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture.

1. Remove the scope from your rifle.
2. Place the scope in a soft, padded case.
3. Store the case in a cool, dry place.

Resources for Learning More About Second Focal Plane Scopes

Here are some resources for learning more about second focal plane scopes:

• [Books](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=second+focal+plane+scopes&ref=nb_sb_noss_2)
• [Websites](https://www.opticsplanet.com/second-focal-plane-scopes.html)
• [Online forums](https://www.snipershide.com/forums/long-range-shooting-and-hunting/)

Troubleshooting Second Focal Plane Scopes

If your second focal plane scope is not working properly, there are a few things you can check.

• Make sure that the scope is mounted correctly to your rifle. The scope should be securely attached to the rifle’s rail, and the rings should be tight enough to prevent the

  How do I use a second focal plane scope?

A second focal plane scope (SFP) is a type of riflescope that has the reticle located behind the objective lens. This means that the reticle does not change size or position as you zoom in or out, which can be helpful for making accurate shots at different distances. However, SFP scopes can also be more difficult to use than first focal plane scopes (FFP), especially for long-range shooting.

Here are the steps on how to use a second focal plane scope:

1. Center the target in the scope.
2. Focus the reticle on the target.
3. Zoom in or out to the desired magnification.
4. Make adjustments to the windage and elevation turrets, if necessary.

What are the advantages of using a second focal plane scope?

There are a few advantages to using a second focal plane scope, including:

• Less expensive: SFP scopes are typically less expensive than FFP scopes.
• More forgiving: SFP scopes are more forgiving of parallax errors, which can occur when the shooter’s eye is not perfectly aligned with the optical axis of the scope.
• Better for close-range shooting: SFP scopes are better suited for close-range shooting, as the reticle does not change size or position as you zoom in or out.

What are the disadvantages of using a second focal plane scope?

There are a few disadvantages to using a second focal plane scope, including:

• Less precise for long-range shooting: SFP scopes are less precise for long-range shooting, as the reticle changes size as you zoom in or out. This can make it difficult to make accurate shots at long distances.
• Less versatile: SFP scopes are less versatile than FFP scopes, as they cannot be used for both close-range and long-range shooting.

When should I use a second focal plane scope?

SFP scopes are a good choice for shooters who primarily engage targets at close to medium range. They are also a good choice for shooters who are on a budget.

If you plan on doing a lot of long-range shooting, then you may want to consider investing in an FFP scope. FFP scopes are more precise for long-range shooting and are more versatile than SFP scopes.

How do I zero a second focal plane scope?

To zero a second focal plane scope, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Set the magnification to the highest setting.
2. Center the target in the scope.
3. Focus the reticle on the target.
4. Make adjustments to the windage and elevation turrets, if necessary.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 until the target is centered in the reticle at all magnification settings.

What are some common problems with second focal plane scopes?

There are a few common problems with second focal plane scopes, including:

• Parallax errors: Parallax errors can occur when the shooter’s eye is not perfectly aligned with the optical axis of the scope. This can cause the target to appear to move in the scope when you move your head.
• Reticle distortion: Reticle distortion can occur when you zoom in or out on the scope. This can make it difficult to make accurate shots at long distances.
• Less precise for long-range shooting: SFP scopes are less precise for long-range shooting than FFP scopes, as the reticle changes size as you zoom in or out.

How can I avoid problems with second focal plane scopes?

To avoid problems with second focal plane scopes, you can follow these tips:

• Make sure the scope is properly mounted on your rifle.
• Center the target in the scope and focus the reticle on the target before you zoom in or out.
• Make adjustments to the windage and elevation turrets, if necessary.
• Repeat steps 2-4 until the target is centered in the reticle at all magnification settings.

In this comprehensive guide, we have discussed the basics of second focal plane scopes, including what they are, how they work, and their advantages and disadvantages. We have also provided detailed instructions on how to use a second focal plane scope, including how to focus it, adjust the magnification, and make windage and elevation adjustments.

We hope that this guide has been helpful and that you now have a better understanding of second focal plane scopes and how to use them. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Here are some key takeaways from this guide:

• Second focal plane scopes have the reticle located in the second focal plane, which means that the reticle size remains constant regardless of the magnification setting.
• Second focal plane scopes are often used for long-range shooting, as they allow for accurate holdover and ranging.
• Second focal plane scopes can be more difficult to use than first focal plane scopes, as the reticle size changes with the magnification setting.
• When using a second focal plane scope, it is important to remember that the reticle size will change with the magnification setting. This means that you will need to adjust your holdover and ranging accordingly.

We hope that you have found this guide helpful. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.