MIL vs. MOA: Understanding the Differences
When choosing a rifle scope, you’ll run into all sorts of technical language—FFP vs. SFP, magnification levels, parallax adjustments, and more. Two key concepts to understand are MIL (milliradian) and MOA (minute of angle). These units of measurement help you make precise adjustments on your scope and ensure accurate shots. Our Optics Experts break down the differences between MIL and MOA, their advantages, and which type of scope may be best for your hunting or target shooting needs.
What Are MILs & MOA?
Both MIL and MOA are units of angular measurement displayed on a rifle scope’s reticle. These markings, called hash marks or subtensions, help you adjust for bullet drop, wind, and distance.
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MIL (MRAD): Metric-based, often used in tactical and long-range shooting.
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MOA (Minute of Angle): Imperial/traditional system, familiar to most hunters and target shooters.
A Deep Dive About MILs
MIL (MRAD) stands for milliradians, which is a unit of angular measurement in the metric system. To understand MILs, know that a circle is 360 degrees, and each degree can be divided into 1,000 milliradians. One MIL translates to approximately 3.6 inches at 100 yards. This can be a fairly large adjustment when hunting or target shooting. That’s why MIL-Dot rifle scopes use markings that represent 1/10 of a MIL for finer adjustments with each click on the scope’s turrets meaning 1/10 of a MIL.
For example at 100 yards, one click would change the impact by about 0.36 inches.
Highlights of MIL-Dot Rifle Scope
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Simpler math makes it easier to range targets using reticles
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Ideal for tactical or long-range shooting
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Can be a steep learning curve if you’re not familiar with the metric system
A Deep Dive About MOA
MOA stands for minutes of angle, which is a unit of angular measurement most hunters and shooters are familiar with. To understand MOA, know that a circle is 360 degrees, and each degree has 60 minutes. One MOA translates to approximately 1.047 inches at 100 yards. Because hunters and target shooters need more precise measurements, MOA scopes typically have adjustments calibrated in 1/4 MOA clicks.
For example, at 100 yards, a 1/4 MOA click would change the impact by approximately 0.26 inches.
- Related Expert Advice | What is MOA? >
Highlights of MOA Rifle Scopes
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Commonly used among hunters and target shooters
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Ideal for traditional hunters and casual target shooters
MIL vs. MOA Comparison Chart
Our Optics Experts highlight the key differences in the chart below so you can easily compare the different measurements to find the best fit for your hunt.
| Feature | MIL (MRAD) Rifle Scopes | MOA (Minute of Angle) Rifle Scopes |
|---|---|---|
| Measurement System | Metric system | Imperial / traditional system |
| Circle Division | 360° → 1000 milliradians per degree | 360° → 60 minutes per degree |
| Adjustment at 100 Yards | 1 MIL ≈ 3.6 inches | 1 MOA ≈ 1.047 inches |
| Typical Turret Click | 1/10 MIL (~0.36 in per click) | 1/4 MOA (~0.26 in per click) |
| Ideal Applications | Tactical shooting, long-range precision | Hunting, casual target shooting |
| Learning Curve | Steeper if unfamiliar with metric system | Easier for most hunters and shooters |
Choosing which unit of measurement you want for your rifle scope depends on personal preference. Top optics brands like Trijicon, Vortex, Leupold, and more offer rifle scopes in both MIL and MOA. Both units of measurement are accurate once you have plenty of practice and correctly sighted in your rifle scope. If you have additional questions about choosing a rifle scope or prepping for the hunt, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with an Expert.
