Nightforce ATACR F1 Rifle Scope
What the ATACR F1 is (quick overview)
The Nightforce ATACR F1 line are high-end, first-focal-plane (FFP) precision riflescopes built for long-range and tactical use. They’re known for exceptional glass quality (ED glass on many models), big internal adjustment ranges, rugged construction, and advanced features such as Nightforce’s zero-stop and illuminated reticle options.
Core characteristics shared across the F1 family
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First Focal Plane (FFP) reticles — hold values stay accurate across the magnification range.
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34 mm main tube on most models — provides big internal adjustment and rigidity for precision mounts.
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High elevation travel (large internal adjustment ranges) — common to ATACR models to support extreme long-range dialing.
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Multiple reticle choices (MOA, MIL, Horus, Tremor, MOAR, etc.) and illumination options (DigIllum/power/brightness variants on select versions).
Popular ATACR F1 model quick specs (representative)
Below are common, widely available ATACR F1 variants and their headline specs (manufacturer / product pages):
ATACR 5–25×56 F1 (a common “flagship” long-range configuration)
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Magnification: 5–25×
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Objective: 56 mm
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Tube: 34 mm
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Overall length: ≈ 15.4 in (390 mm)
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Weight: ≈ 37.6–38 oz (1,066 g)
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Internal elevation: ~120 MOA / 35 MRAD (varies by exact model/config).
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FFP, many reticle/illumination options (MOAR™, MIL-R™, MIL-C™, TReMoR™, etc.).
ATACR 4–20×50 F1
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Magnification: 4–20× | Objective 50 mm | 34 mm tube
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Internal adjustment: ~130 MOA / 38 MRAD on some configs — designed as a mid-range/DMR option.
ATACR 7–35×56 F1
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Magnification: 7–35× | Objective 56 mm | 34 mm tube
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Extremely long-range oriented with very large internal adjustment travel.
ATACR 1–8×24 F1 (LPVO)
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Magnification: 1–8× (LPVO style) | Tube 34 mm | Shorter overall length, lightweight (~21 oz) — designed for fast engagement + precision at extended ranges.
Note: exact weight, length, click values and adjustment ranges vary slightly with reticle and version (zero-stop, DigIllum, or other options). Always confirm the specific SKU on Nightforce’s product page or a reputable dealer page for the configuration you plan to buy. nightforceoptics.com+1
Notable features & tech
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ZeroStop / ZeroHold / large elevation/windage travel — lets you return to a known zero quickly and provides the travel needed for long-range cartridges.
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DigIllum / Illuminated reticle options — illuminated reticles (digital/variable) on many models for low-light work. ED glass & premium coatings — maximize resolution, contrast and color fidelity at high magnification.
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Precision turret feel and sub-tension tracking — designed for repeatable, accurate adjustments.
Who should consider an ATACR F1?
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Precision long-range shooters, military/law-enforcement marksmen, and hunters who want a highly capable scope with a wide magnification range and advanced reticle/turret options. The F1 line is a premium product — expect professional-level performance and a premium price.
Mounting & pairing suggestions
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Use a 34 mm billet mount rated for the weight and recoil of your rifle. The ATACR F1 family is heavy compared to small hunting optics; proper rings and a solid optic base (Picatinny or rail) are essential.
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Match reticle type to use-case: MIL/MIL for metric-based ballistic solutions, MOA if your dope tables/holdovers are MOA, and specialized reticles (Horus/TReMoR) for advanced ranging/hold systems.
Pros and cons (practical)
Pros:
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Best-in-class optical clarity and mechanical robustness.
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Enormous internal adjustment for extreme ranges.
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Multiple reticles / illumination / zero-stop options.
Cons:
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Premium price (expect high-end MSRP / dealer pricing).
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Larger/heavier than many hunting scopes — consider weight if you carry long distances.
Practical buying checklist
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Choose the magnification range that fits your mission (LPVO 1–8 for HD/fast shooting; 5–25 or 4–20 for precision PRS/ELR).
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Pick reticle type (MIL vs MOA vs Horus/TREMOR etc.).
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Confirm turret click value (.1 mrad, .25 MOA, etc.) matches your ballistic workflow.
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Buy strong 34 mm rings rated for the ATACR’s weight and recoil.
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Verify features (ZeroStop, DigIllum, NVD compatibility) on the exact SKU you’re ordering.
Useful official resources
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Nightforce ATACR product pages (look up the exact model SKU/specs).
- Nightforce ATACR F1 Rifle Scope




