First Focal Plane Scopes

Dive into the world of precision and accuracy with our roundup of First Focal Plane Scopes. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the top-of-the-line scopes that have taken the shooting world by storm. Get ready to discover the perfect tool for your next adventure or competition with our in-depth review of these exceptional scopes.

The Top 14 Best First Focal Plane Scopes

1. Versatile crossbow scope with shock-resistant design — The TruGlo TG8504C3 crossbow scope offers shock resistance, fully-coated lenses for maximum brightness, and a durable, scratch-resistant design for accurate, long-lasting performance.
2. Superior 12–36x50 Straight Edge Spotting Scope with Rangefinder and Nitrogen-Purged Housing — Get crystal clear and waterproof spotting with the Firefield 12–36x50SE Straight Edge Spotting Optics Kit, featuring fully multi-coated lenses and a versatile, weatherproof design.
3. Explore Scientific FirstLight 127mm Mak-Cassegrain with Twilight I Mount: Versatile Telescope for Planetary Observation — Experience sharp views and hassle-free observations with the Explore Scientific Firstlight 127mm Mak-Cassegrain telescope, featuring a Twilight I mount for ultimate convenience.
4. Versatile Explore Scientific Firstlight 100mm Mak-Cassegrain Telescope with Twilight Nano Mount — Experience stunning celestial views with the Explore Scientific Firstlight 100mm Mak-Cassegrain Telescope, featuring a Twilight Nano Mount, 40mm draw tube focuser, Plossl 25mm Eyepiece, Red dot finder, and Smartphone camera Adapter.
5. Discover the Cosmos with Firstlight 100mm Mak-Cassegrain Telescope — The Explore Scientific Firstlight 100mm Mak-Cassegrain with EQ3 Mount combines a versatile telescope, a sturdy mount, and essential accessories, including a smartphone camera adapter, to cater to your desire for discovery.
6. First Light 130mm Telescope: A Powerful Stargazing Experience — Immerse yourself in the cosmos with the Explore Scientific Firstlight 130mm Newtonian, featuring a 130mm aperture, fast f/4.6 focal ratio, and versatile accessories for capturing deep-sky photography.
7. Fullum Folded Newtonian Telescope: High-Power Optics for Stellar Observation — The Optiques Fullum Folded Newtonian 45" f/3.5 is a high-quality telescope with exceptional light gathering power and a resolving power of 0.1 arc second, offering an impressive stellar limiting magnitude of 17.99.
8. Explore Scientific FirstLight 102mm Alt-Az Refractor Telescope with Adjustable-height Stainless Steel Tripod — Discover the universe with Firstlight’s versatile telescopes and smartphone adaptor, offering a range of options from achromatic refractors to GOTO tracking systems.
9. Kowa Prominar 99mm Angled Body Spotting Scope — Experience unmatched precision and performance in the field with the Kowa TSN-99A Spotting Scope, featuring exceptional ergonomics, advanced optics, and a durable, all-weather design for unforgettable outdoor adventures.
10. Kowa TSN-88S Prominar Pure Fluorite Straight Spotting Scope — High-Transmission & Multi-Functional Optics — Experience unmatched natural color clarity and exceptional image quality with the Kowa TSN-88S 88mm Prominar Pure Fluorite Straight Spotting Scope, designed for ultimate functionality and portability for your outdoor adventures.
11. Explore Firstlight 127mm Mak-Cassegrain Telescope — Powerful & Portable Stargazing Experience — Discover the wonders of celestial exploration with the powerful and portable Explore FirstLight 127mm f/15 Mak-Cassegrain Telescope, perfect for both beginners and experienced astronomers alike.
12. Kowa TSN-774 Prominar XD Scope: High-End, First Focal Plane Scopes for Optimal Light Throughput — The Kowa TSN-774 Prominar XD spotting scope boasts exceptional light transmission, durable magnesium body, and First Focal Plane technology, offering both bright images and precise control, making it a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts.
13. FirstLight 80mm Telescope Go-To Tracker Combo — Stargazing made easy — Explore the universe with the Firstlight 80mm Telescope Go-To Tracker Combo, featuring a powerful GOTO system, iEXOS-100 PMC-Eight mount, and smartphone adapter for impressive stargazing experiences.
14. Premium Fluorite Crystal Spotting Scope with 30–70x Zoom — Experience top-quality sporting optics with the Kowa TSN-99S Prominar Spotting Scope, featuring superior low light performance, outstanding detail, and a versatile 30–70x zoom eyepiece for unmatched precision and enjoyment.

Reviews

Versatile crossbow scope with shock-resistant design

I recently bought the TruGlo 4x32 Rangefinding/Trajectory Compensating Crossbow Scope with Rings Camo TG8504C3 to level up my crossbow hunting game. The shock-resistant scope is perfect for outdoor conditions and has a user-friendly fully-coated lens design that provides maximum brightness, clarity, and contrast, making shooting through the scope a breeze.

One day, while hunting, the wind changed direction, causing a slight deviation in my target hit. To make necessary adjustments, I used the fingertip windage and elevation adjustment under screw down caps. However, I wished the scope came with more magnification options so I could have a better view of far-off targets.

One of the standout features is its durable one-piece tube made of aircraft quality aluminum, making it lightweight and scratch-resistant. It also has a matte finish that reduces glare and provides a clean, professional look.

Despite its shortcomings, I enjoyed using the 4x32 TruGlo scope during my hunting sessions. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious hunters who are looking to level up their crossbow accuracy and make their hunting experience even more enjoyable. Just remember to handle the scope carefully and maintain it in top condition to get the best out of it.

Superior 12–36x50 Straight Edge Spotting Scope with Rangefinder and Nitrogen-Purged Housing

A few weeks ago, I was out in the range, testing this Firefield 12–36x50 Straight Edge Spotting Optics Kit. After assembling it, it was a breeze to set up and mount on my rifle. The first thing that caught my eye was the straight eyepiece; it felt comfortable and ergonomic, allowing me to focus on my target with ease.

I zeroed in on my shooting range, and with the 12–36x50 scope, I could see everything clearly, even at great distances. The fully multi-coated lenses made a huge difference, providing a bright and sharp image that made my shots dead on. The rubber-armored body also felt incredibly durable, and I was impressed with its weatherproofing capabilities — no worries about using it in the rain or fog.

Now, while I loved the scope itself, the factory accessories left something to be desired. The tripod wasn’t the sturdest, and the sunshade felt a bit flimsy. However, I found that with some DIY modifications, I could improve its functionality.

Overall, I’d highly recommend the Firefield 12–36x50 Straight Edge Spotting Optics Kit for anyone looking to enhance their shooting experience. It’s an affordable, yet high-quality option that’s perfect for target practice or hunting enthusiasts.

Explore Scientific FirstLight 127mm Mak-Cassegrain with Twilight I Mount: Versatile Telescope for Planetary Observation

During my recent stargazing adventures, I decided to give the Explore Scientific Firstlight 127mm Mak-Cassegrain a whirl. It quickly became my go-to telescope for planetary and star-gazing, as it boasted a smooth, user-friendly manual alt-azimuth mount, allowing me to track objects with ease.

The scope was an optical marvel: its Maksutov-Cassegrain design provided stunning contrast, despite the narrower field of view. Every night, as I adjusted the height of the stainless steel tripod to my preferred level, I marvelled at the Maksutov-Cassegrain’s impressive focal length ratio and fully multi-coated optics. The scope came with a smartphone adapter, making it an even more versatile tool for my stargazing endeavors.

However, during my deep-sky observations, I had the hardest time using the red-dot finderscope. Its narrow field of view made lining up for an accurate view quite cumbersome. Regardless, the Explore Scientific Firstlight 127mm Mak-Cassegrain was an extraordinary telescope that effortlessly combined performance and accessibility. Though the red-dot finderscope had its quirks, its stellar features made the overall experience an absolute delight.

Versatile Explore Scientific Firstlight 100mm Mak-Cassegrain Telescope with Twilight Nano Mount

I recently tried out the Explore Scientific Firstlight 100mm Mak-Cassegrain with Twilight Nano Mount, and let me tell you, it exceeded my expectations. The telescope itself has a focal length of 1400mm and a sturdy Twilight Nano Alt/AZ mount. It’s perfect for astro-enthusiasts like myself who always wanted a telescope they could easily set up and use.

One of the key features that stood out to me is the inclusion of essentials, like a draw tube focuser, Plossl 25mm Eyepiece, and a red dot finder. The addition of a Smartphone camera Adapter makes it easy to capture and share the breathtaking views. However, I did notice that the package does not come with a case, which might be a downside for those who want to protect their investment.

Overall, the Explore Scientific Firstlight 100mm Mak-Cassegrain with Twilight Nano Mount has been a game-changer for me. It’s compact, easy to set up, and offers an incredible viewing experience. I highly recommend it for anyone looking to explore the skies above.

Discover the Cosmos with Firstlight 100mm Mak-Cassegrain Telescope

I recently got the chance to explore the Scientific Firstlight 100mm Mak-Cassegrain with EQ3 Mount, and let me tell you, it’s an impressive piece of equipment for any amateur stargazer like myself.

The telescope offers a 1400mm focal length F/14, which allowed me to capture some stunning images of the night sky. The EQ3 mount was sturdy and easy to set up, providing a smooth tracking experience. My favorite part was the 90-degree diagonal and Plossl 25mm eyepiece that made viewing more comfortable and clear. The red-dot finder was also a handy addition, making it effortless to locate celestial objects.

However, there was one minor drawback: the mount’s lack of a GPS feature left me unable to track the telescope accurately. But overall, the Firstlight 100mm Mak-Cassegrain with EQ3 Mount provided me with a thrilling and educational experience, and I’m looking forward to exploring more of the cosmos with it!

First Light 130mm Telescope: A Powerful Stargazing Experience

The Explore Scientific FirstLight 130mm Newtonian with EQ3 Mount is a fantastic addition to any stargazer’s arsenal. I was initially drawn to its generous 130mm aperture, which showcases galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters with impressive light-gathering capability. The fast focal ratio of f/4.6 shortened my exposure times for deep-sky photography, leading to sharper images.

Setting up the telescope was a breeze, thanks to its full-size tripod that includes an accessory tray to keep eyepieces handy and provide additional stability. I was pleased with the inclusion of a 25mm Plössl eyepiece and a red dot viewfinder, which aided in locating objects. The model also came with an adapter, allowing me to use my smartphone to capture and share images.

While the assembly instructions were essentially pictorial, I was able to find helpful tutorials on YouTube. My only gripe was the quality of the included phone adapter, but a replacement was easily found for a reasonable price. The Explore Scientific FirstLight 130mm Newtonian with EQ3 Mount has proven to be a reliable and impressive tool in my stargazing journey.

Fullum Folded Newtonian Telescope: High-Power Optics for Stellar Observation

I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Fullum Folded Newtonian telescope, and I must say, it impressed me. With a massive 1143mm objective diameter and a focal length of 4000mm, I had high expectations for this telescope. The f/3.5 focal ratio allowed for an impressive light gathering power of 26,662 times the human eye, which made for a clear and bright observation experience. And with an extremely impressive stellar limiting magnitude of 17.99, I was able to view even the faintest stars in the night sky.

But as with any product, there were a few aspects that could have been improved. I found the max magnification of 2857x (theoretical) to be a bit limiting, especially when trying to explore some of the deep sky objectives. However, the telescope’s Newtonian reflector optical design made for a pleasing visual and was quite user-friendly, especially for someone new to astronomy.

Overall, my experience with the Fullum Folded Newtonian telescope was a positive one. With stunning brightness and clarity, it made stargazing a delight. However, if you’re looking for a high magnification telescope, you may want to consider other options in the market.

Explore Scientific FirstLight 102mm Alt-Az Refractor Telescope with Adjustable-height Stainless Steel Tripod

Using Firstlight has been a fantastic experience, and I’ve found it incredibly easy to set up and use, perfect for a beginner. The telescope bundle comes with all the essentials, from the sturdy mount to the eyepiece and red dot viewfinder. The optical quality is excellent, with a 25mm Plössl eyepiece and a 90° diagonal for comfortable viewing.

A big plus is the built-in dew shield, which slows down the build-up of moisture on the objective lens and reduces interference from ambient light. The adapter for smartphones adds to the convenience and allows for easy image capturing and sharing. The included tripod is adjustable and made of stainless steel, making it lightweight and durable.

However, a minor drawback I’ve come across is some confusion in the setup manual. Some parts, like small washers, aren’t mentioned or included, leading to a few hiccups during initial assembly. Additionally, a couple of tapped holes were at an angle, which required some adjustments before everything was properly screwed on.

Overall, Firstlight is a great telescope for beginners, offering excellent value for money with its high-quality optics and user-friendly features. If the manual issues are addressed, this could be a top-tier recommendation for those starting out in astronomy.

Kowa Prominar 99mm Angled Body Spotting Scope

Recently, I had the chance to witness the brilliance of the Kowa TSN-99A Angled Body Spotting Scope in action. I was thoroughly impressed with its smooth dual focus mechanism, providing unmatched control for capturing the finest details of my subjects. The Fluorite crystal lens delivered an outstanding viewing experience with its vivid colors and sharp, contrasting images.

I particularly enjoyed the lightweight magnesium alloy chassis, which allowed me to comfortably use the scope for long periods without getting weighed down. The versatility of the scope truly shined with its compatibility with digiscoping accessories and the ability to transform into a super telephoto lens system with just a few simple steps. I was also pleased with the Kowa’s KR coating, which repelled dirt, moisture, and dust from the objective lens, keeping my images clear and undistorted even in harsh environments.

While the TSN-99A is undeniably an impressive piece of equipment, there were a few minor drawbacks. The larger, 99mm objective lens could be challenging to carry and maneuver in tight spaces, and the price tag was rather hefty for a spotting scope. However, considering all the product’s exceptional features, I still believe the Kowa TSN-99A Angled Body Spotting Scope is a stellar investment for avid hobbyists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Kowa TSN-88S Prominar Pure Fluorite Straight Spotting Scope — High-Transmission & Multi-Functional Optics

I recently had the chance to try out the Kowa TSN-88S Prominar spotting scope, and I must say, it delivered an amazing viewing experience. The 88mm pure fluorite crystal objective lens stood out from the rest, providing unparalleled colour brilliance and eliminating chromatic aberration. The dual focus mechanism was incredibly easy to use, offering both quick and fine focus adjustments for pinpoint accuracy.

One of the standout features of this scope is its lightweight and portable design. Weighing in at 1480g, it’s a breeze to carry along on outdoor adventures. The magnesium alloy structure makes it both strong and light, while the waterproof and nitrogen-sealed shell adds a layer of durability.

I was particularly impressed by the TSN-88 Prominar’s versatility when it came to digiscoping. The Kowa smartphone adapters made it easy to connect most smartphone models, allowing me to capture stunning, highly magnified images and videos of my surroundings. The new dual tripod mounting system also added a level of stability and convenience for those long hours of use.

All in all, the Kowa TSN-88S Prominar spotting scope provided an exceptional and natural colour viewing experience, making it a joy to use every time I took it out into the field. This mighty fluorite-based powerhouse stands out as a top contender in any serious birdwatcher or outdoor enthusiast’s kit.

Explore Firstlight 127mm Mak-Cassegrain Telescope — Powerful & Portable Stargazing Experience

Imagine yourself exploring the vast cosmos with the Explore Firstlight 127mm Mak-Cassegrain Telescope, your trusty companion to unravel the mysteries of the universe. This incredible telescope is designed for effortless portability, yet delivers formidable magnification capabilities that set it apart.

The 127mm optical tube, with a 1900mm focal length and f/15 focal ratio, offers powerful optics for capturing intricate details of lunar and planetary landscapes. Dive deep into the mesmerizing beauty of nebulae and galaxies, extending your gaze beyond our solar system.

Equipped with fully multi-coated optics and an internal focusing mechanism, this telescope guarantees crystal-clear views. The 1.25" 90° diagonal, Plossl 25mm eyepiece, and red-dot finder provide a comprehensive observational experience.

Sharing celestial wonders has never been easier with the included smartphone camera adapter, capturing and sharing your cosmic discoveries. The versatility of this telescope makes it perfect for both beginners and experienced astronomers.

Choose a package that suits your needs, from the 127mm f/15 Mak-Cassegrain with EQ3 Mount to the 127mm f/15 with Twilight Nano Mount. This exceptional tool stands ready to help you embark on your astronomical journey, ensuring it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Kowa TSN-774 Prominar XD Scope: High-End, First Focal Plane Scopes for Optimal Light Throughput

The Kowa TSN-774 77mm Prominar XD Straight Spotting Scope is a top-of-the-line tool for those who are serious about spotting animals in their natural habitat. With its unparalleled light throughput, I was able to capture stunningly bright images, even in low-light conditions. The angled scope configuration was a perfect fit for me, but I can understand why some might prefer the straight version.

This scope is incredibly robust and durable, thanks to its magnesium frame. It’s lightweight, yet solid, measuring only 12 inches long and weighing just under 47 ounces. The dual focus knob system made it easy to achieve precise focusing, while the locking eyepiece mount ensured a secure fit.

What truly sets this scope apart is its waterproof and nitrogen-purged design, which keeps it internally fog-free. The Eco-Glass construction is an eco-friendly choice, and I appreciate Kowa’s commitment to the environment.

The TSN-774 scope’s filters, measuring 82mm in diameter, complement the optics perfectly. However, I must mention that at higher magnifications, some aberrations might become noticeable. But overall, this scope performs exceptionally well and is a great investment for wildlife enthusiasts.

FirstLight 80mm Telescope Go-To Tracker Combo — Stargazing made easy

The FirstLight 80mm Go-To Tracker Combo is a fascinating device I’ve been tinkering with in my daily astronomy routine. This combo includes a powerful GOTO system that eliminates the stress of trying to navigate the night sky. The combination of the iEXOS-100 PMC-Eight mount and the versatile 80mm refractor provides a stargazing experience that is truly worth the investment.

Two features that really stood out are the included adapter that lets users capture and share images of their discoveries, and the quiet precision stepper motor belt drives that help keep the telescope in place. Although it’s a great product, there are minor drawbacks. For example, the manual isn’t the most user-friendly, and sometimes it feels a bit too pricey.

Overall, the FirstLight 80mm Go-To Tracker Combo is a valuable addition for any amateur astronomer who’s ready to level up their stargazing skills.

Premium Fluorite Crystal Spotting Scope with 30–70x Zoom

As a wildlife enthusiast, I recently had the chance to try out the Kowa TSN-99S Prominar 30–70x Zoom Kit. From the moment I set it up, I was impressed by its sleek and sturdy design. The bright 99mm objective lens paired with an XD concave lens made it incredibly easy to spot wildlife from miles away, even in low light conditions. The zoom feature was a game-changer, allowing me to get a closer look at the smallest details without any loss in clarity.

However, one downside I noticed was that the scope seemed to get a bit hot during prolonged use, which could make it harder to get a clear view on very bright sunny days. But overall, the Kowa TSN-99S Prominar 30–70x Zoom Kit proved to be a top-notch spotting scope that truly deserves all the praise it’s been getting from wildlife enthusiasts and professional guides alike.

Buyer’s Guide

First Focal Plane (FFP) scopes have become increasingly popular among hunters and shooters due to their unique optical performance and enhanced versatility. This buyer’s guide will provide an in-depth look into the important features, considerations, and general advice about FFP scopes to help you make an informed decision when selecting the right one for your needs.

Key Features

1. First Focal Plane Design: The central part of the scope’s optical system remains in the eyepiece, enabling the same magnification to be used for both the objective lens and the eyepiece.
2. Optical Performance: FFP scopes offer excellent clarity and image quality, thanks to the efficient light transmission and minimal chromatic aberration.
3. Variable Reticle illumination: Many FFP scopes come with built-in reticle illumination, allowing you to adjust the brightness according to the lighting conditions.

Considerations

1. Magnification Range: Choose a scope with a magnification range that best suits your shooting requirements, considering factors such as distance, target size, and shooting environment.
2. Field of View: A wider field of view typically provides better situational awareness and faster target acquisition, but may also result in a narrower magnification range.
3. Reticle Type and Illumination: Consider the type of reticle and its illumination options, taking into account your shooting style, preferred shooting distances, and preferred environment.

General Advice

1. Test Before You Buy: Whenever possible, try the scope before purchasing it. You can also consider borrowing a friend’s or a local gun shop’s scope to test its performance.
2. Consider Compatibility with Accessories: Ensure that the scope you choose is compatible with other accessories you plan to use, such as mounts, rings, or a bipod.
3. Take Care of Your Scope: Proper maintenance and care are essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your FFP scope. Clean it regularly and store it in a protective case when not in use.

Selecting the right First Focal Plane scope can significantly enhance your shooting experience and accuracy. By considering the key features, considerations, and general advice outlined in this buyer’s guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and choose the perfect FFP scope for your needs.

FAQ

What is a First Focal Plane Scope?

A First Focal Plane Scope (FFP scope) is a type of optical sight that places the magnification and other optical elements directly in the path of the light exiting the rifle. This results in brighter and sharper images when compared to Second Focal Plane (SFP) scopes.

What are the benefits of using a First Focal Plane Scope?

The main benefit of using a First Focal Plane Scope is that the reticle appears to increase in size proportionally with the magnification. This makes it easier to track targets at greater distances and even allows for precise ranging when shooting at long distances.

What are some factors to consider when choosing a First Focal Plane Scope?

• Field of view
• Magnification
• Objective lens size
• Reticle choice
• Construction materials and weather resistance
• Eye relief

Do all First Focal Plane Scopes have the same features and performance?

No, there are different models and brands of First Focal Plane Scopes with varying features and performance levels. It is essential to research and compare different models to find one that meets your specific needs and preferences.

What is the difference between First Focal Plane and Second Focal Plane Scopes?

First Focal Plane Scopes (FFP) place the magnification and other optical elements directly in the path of the light exiting the rifle, while Second Focal Plane Scopes (SFP) magnify the image first and then place the reticle in the path of the light. This results in a brighter and sharper image for FFP scopes when used at higher magnifications.

How do I properly care and maintain my First Focal Plane Scope?

• Clean the lens with a soft, microfiber cloth or brush, using a cleaning solution specifically designed for firearm optics.
• Store the scope in a dry, dust-free environment when not in use to prevent damage from humidity and dust.
• Regularly check for any signs of wear or damage, and have the scope repaired or replaced if necessary.

Are there any common issues or drawbacks to using First Focal Plane Scopes?

One potential drawback is that the reticle will appear smaller and more difficult to see at the intended magnification if the scope’s power setting is set too low or too high. Some users may also find the price point of these scopes to be more expensive than other types of optical sights.

What are some popular brands of First Focal Plane Scopes?

Some popular brands of First Focal Plane Scopes include Vortex Optics, Swarovski Optik, Schmidt & Bender, and Nightforce Optics.