What advantage does a first focal plane reticle provide?

A first focal plane (FFP) reticle offers the significant advantage that the reticle size changes in relation to the magnification of the scope. This means that the subtensions—such as the spacing used for ranging or holdovers—remain consistent at all magnification levels. Therefore, when using a MIL-DOT reticle, the bracketing and aiming points work accurately regardless of whether the shooter is using maximum or lower magnification. This flexibility allows for more accurate ranging and target engagement without needing to adjust the strategy based on the zoom level.

While cost, maximum magnification dependency, and light transmission are important considerations in choosing optics, they do not encapsulate the primary operational benefit of first focal plane designs in practical shooting scenarios. The distinct feature of maintaining accurate measurements at various magnifications is what sets FFP reticles apart, making them a preferred choice for precision shooting.