FFP 1-4 Questions (1x so small it is mostly unusable for me)

[MED]

So I just got a Bushnell 1-4 PCL optic for my son. At 1x, I can't see the reticle well enough (if at all in some bright light conditions) to be in any way usable without illumination. This lower end scope illumination washes out at the highest setting in direct sunlight so basically 1x is useless for me in daylight, which makes this a 2-4 optic and defeats the whole purpose of a 1-4 optic. I suppose the higher end stuff would be better with illumination in sunlight, but I don't want to be dependent on it.

I guess I don't understand why this is a good thing; my SFP 1-4 works great for me on any setting with no illumination required unless it is a low light condition and then I just turn it on to a low setting. It is a Millet and not the greatest quality optic so I want something better.

The reason I am posting here is because it seems as though FFP is the big fad right now and everything of any quality is built that way. I can see the possible benefits on a long range optic, but from what I can see, it sure sucks ass on a 1-4 optic.

I was looking at the Viper PST 1-4 for myself; but I can't imagine that I would like it very much given the miniature reticle size on the one i got for my son so I am writing that one off my list. So where do I go from here? ...what options are there? I will look at the 1-6 Vortex Strike Eagle, but wanted something a little better.

Finally, do people actually like a reticle so small it takes a magnifying glass to see it? ...or, is it because people are told they should like it so they do?

[Delfuego]

It is really more of a red dot at 1x. Use the ring or the illumination as a 1x dot style optic.The FFP is great for bullet drop, that is the real advantage. I think the PST is SFP not FFP. SFP should be fine for most 1-4 scopes. But having an accurate FFP reticle is priceless at distance and with wind. 1-6x or 1-8x seems much more usable to me personally but of course it is more expensive. Look at the Vortex Razors or maybe an Acog is you want a better optic.

[kwando]

The PST 1-4 is second focal plane.

They make PSTs that are FFP, like the 2.5-10x33 (not to be confused with the 44mm).

[MED]

The PST 1-4 is second focal plane.

They make PSTs that are FFP, like the 2.5-10x33 (not to be confused with the 44mm).

Thank you; I don't know what I was looking at earlier. I read the reticle PDF on their website...that is 1000 times better!!!

Looks like the PST or maybe the Strike Eagle will work great for me.

Thanks again!!

[Tim K]

FFP in low magnification scopes doesn't make a lot of sense for the reasons you mention. Look for newer dual focal plane optics for the best of both. In addition to a FFP reticle, they will also have a 2FP red dot (or similar).

[Spdu4ia]

I just picked up the Bushnell ar 223 1-4x in SFP . I agree with what was said and think in lower power the ffp is a waste. That being said my 24x nightforce is SFP too. I understand the concept and why it is good for long range but not up close, I'd rather see the reticle.

[bellavite1]

A solution in search of a problem...
Do your range estimation at the correct magnification.
If you want more field of view use your turrets to adjust rather than the reticle.
Use the extra money to buy ammo.
Shoot.
Then shoot some more.

[MED]

MidwwayUSA Vortex Strike Eagle sale $268 w/ free shipping; problem solved for my son. RMA label printed and the Bushnell going back.

[SA Friday]

Just a heads up, the Strike Eagle is a ballistic drop reticle. For your end-use, I think it's a better choice.

[ar15shooter]

MidwwayUSA Vortex Strike Eagle sale $268 w/ free shipping; problem solved for my son. RMA label printed and the Bushnell going back.

Good deal!

They are back up to $329.99