First Look: Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP Riflescopes

In recent years, the optics world has seen a revolution in favor of first focal-plane optics over more-traditional second focal-plane designs. However, the added features of FFP optics often come at added cost, putting the added benefits of this optic construction out of reach for many modern-day shooters. The all-new Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP riflescope lineup puts high-power, FFP optics within reach of the average enthusiast's budget.

Unlike SFP optics, FFP riflescopes feature reticles that adjust in size along with increasing magnification, ensuring that the measurements featured within the reticle itself are accurate at any magnification level. This allows shooters to accurately gauge windage and elevation adjustments even when they aren't on the highest magnification setting, which is often the only point at which the reticles in SFP scopes are accurate. Another added benefit of FFP riflescopes like the Vortex Diamondback Tactical series is that, at low magnification settings, the reticles are often small enough to provide an uncluttered aiming point for close-up target engagement. This makes them great options for do-it-all rifles that can handle anything close up or at distance, like many popular .308 Win.-caliber ARs on the market today.

Each Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP riflescope is built on a 30 mm main-body tube with the company's XD optical system, complete with fully multi-coated lenses that enhance low-light performance and provide crisp contrast during bright daylight. The optic includes Vortex's EBR-2C reticle, which offers both MOA- or MRAD-based hashmarks for adjusting windage and elevation on the fly. The scope body is nitrogen-purged and sealed with O-rings to keep out water, dirt and dust while ensuring that the optic is fogproof in all environments.

Two models are available in the Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP riflescope lineup, so consumers can choose between a 4-16x44 mm and 6-24x50 mm model. Each option is built with tactical turrets that can be adjusted easily with gloved hands, thanks to the knurled surfaces found on each turret top. A built-in zero-reset ensures that users can always return to their original zeroing point with ease.

The suggested retail price on the Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP riflescopes starts at $449.99 for the 4-16X model and tops out at $499.99 for the 6-24X option.