The discussion takes place at Take Aim Training and Range and focuses on low power variable optics, or LPVOs, using EOTech Vudu models as examples. The main topic is the difference between first focal plane (FFP) and second focal plane (SFP) optics and why a shooter might choose one over the other. In a first focal plane optic, increasing magnification enlarges both the target and the reticle, revealing more usable information for windage and elevation as power increases. In a second focal plane optic, the reticle remains the same apparent size regardless of magnification, while only the target image grows. This SFP layout is described as the more common configuration, with a simpler, consistent sight picture across the magnification range.
A first focal plane EOTech Vudu 1-6x LPVO is used to illustrate FFP behavior. The optic has an etched, illuminated reticle and is mounted in an American Defense Manufacturing mount. At 1x, the very fine center aiming point can be difficult to pick up without illumination, especially when the reticle has not yet enlarged through higher magnification. Illumination helps, but the brightness on this particular Vudu is noted as not especially strong, even under overcast conditions and in shaded areas near trees. The reticle includes a large outer ring, estimated around 80 MOA at 1x, which aids quick target acquisition at close range. As magnification increases, the reticle grows, exposing more detailed hold information for windage and elevation, but this information is most fully usable at maximum power.
The shooter tests the EOTech Vudu 1-6x first focal plane optic at different magnification settings. At 1x, the center dot is somewhat hard to locate quickly, though the large outer ring helps with close targets. At 6x, the center reticle becomes very easy to see, and the additional hold information is clearly presented. At an intermediate setting around 3x, the center reticle is more visible than at 1x but still not brightly illuminated, and the outer ring appears much larger, roughly comparable to a 200 MOA circle. The observation is that the full potential of the FFP reticle’s information is not really realized until the optic is at or near maximum magnification. There is also a suggestion that more magnification or reticle data that remains true at intermediate powers could make the FFP design more versatile.
Attention then shifts to a second focal plane LPVO, described as a 1-8x optic with a simple crosshair and an illuminated center dot. In this SFP design, the reticle stays the same apparent size at all magnifications, making the center aiming point easy to see at 1x without hunting for it. The optic is generally noted as less expensive than many first focal plane options, though there are high-end SFP scopes as well. During initial shots at 1x, the target is knocked down, and the shooter realizes that confidence in the bright, easy-to-see center dot may have led to rushed shots and early misses. After resetting the target and slowing down, hits feel more controlled. The experience suggests that SFP reticles can be particularly practical for close-range or fast engagements where a consistent, clearly visible aiming point is important.
The comparison leads to a practical division of roles between first and second focal plane optics. The second focal plane 1-8x is seen as well suited for close quarters and medium-distance engagements, where a stable, always-visible reticle is beneficial. The first focal plane 1-6x, despite having less top-end magnification, is viewed as better aligned with longer-distance shooting because the reticle scales and reveals more detailed hold information as magnification increases. Beyond LPVOs, the discussion mentions a preference for magnified red dot setups, such as an EOTech holographic sight paired with a 3x magnifier or a Trijicon MRO with a 3x magnifier. EOTech is noted as having released a newer magnifier with higher power, and Vortex magnifiers are mentioned as a more affordable alternative, suggesting a possible future comparison of different magnifier options.
The video closes by inviting input from both new and experienced shooters on choosing between first and second focal plane optics. For extended-distance shooting, a first focal plane scope with a reticle such as a Tremor 3 is cited as a preferred option because the reticle’s detailed hold information scales with magnification. For general use at close to medium ranges, a quality second focal plane optic is considered entirely adequate. Reticle design is highlighted as an important factor, with the ACSS-style reticle mentioned as a popular choice now being adopted by the Marine Corps in place of the older ACOG chevron. The key takeaway is that first focal plane optics provide additional, magnification-dependent information as power increases, while second focal plane optics present a fixed reticle where increasing magnification only enlarges the target image, not the amount of data available in the reticle.
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