MOA vs MRAD: Which Is Right for You?

Every adjustable rifle scope uses either MOA (Minute of Angle) or MRAD (Milliradian, often called "mil") for its turret clicks and reticle subtensions. Choosing between them is one of the most common questions new precision shooters face — and the answer is simpler than most guides make it seem.

MOA and MRAD are both angular measurement systems. One MOA equals approximately 1 inch at 100 yards (technically 1.047 inches). One MRAD equals 0.1 metre at 100 metres, or approximately 3.6 inches at 100 yards. Neither is inherently more accurate — they are different units measuring the same thing. The practical question is which system makes the maths easier for the way you shoot.

Buying Advice

For UK target shooters working in metric distances and metric wind data, MRAD is generally the simpler system — corrections in mils match metric range calculations directly. For hunters or stalkers who think in yards and inches, MOA adjustments feel more intuitive. PRS and practical precision competition in the UK has largely standardised on MRAD — if you plan to compete, mil-based scopes integrate better with the correction cards and ranging maths used at most UK ranges.

The most important rule: match your reticle and your turrets. A scope with an MRAD reticle and MOA turrets (or vice versa) requires constant conversion and is a recipe for errors under pressure. All modern quality scopes are consistent — an MRAD reticle always comes with MRAD turrets. If in doubt, ask the retailer to confirm before buying.