MIL vs MOA Turrets: What’s the Difference?
Release time:
2025-07-28
MIL vs MOA Turrets: What’s the Difference?
Introduction
When choosing a riflescope, one of the key decisions a shooter must make is whether to use MIL or MOA turrets. Both are angular units of measurement used for adjusting elevation and windage, but they have different systems and conversions. Understanding the difference between MIL (milliradian) and MOA (minute of angle) can greatly impact your shooting accuracy and ease of use.
What is MIL (Milliradian)?
MIL stands for milliradian, a unit of angular measurement used in the metric system. One MIL equals 1/1000 of a radian. At 100 meters, 1 MIL corresponds to 10 centimeters, or approximately 3.6 inches at 100 yards.
MIL-based turrets typically adjust in 0.1 MIL increments, equating to 1 cm at 100 meters. This system is widely used in military and tactical applications due to its compatibility with the metric system.
What is MOA (Minute of Angle)?
MOA stands for minute of angle, a unit of angular measurement used in the imperial system. One MOA is 1/60th of a degree. At 100 yards, 1 MOA equals approximately 1.047 inches.
MOA turrets commonly adjust in 1/4 MOA increments, meaning each click moves the point of impact roughly 0.26 inches at 100 yards. MOA is preferred by many hunters and precision shooters in the United States who are accustomed to the imperial system.
Key Differences Between MIL and MOA Turrets
Feature | MIL | MOA |
Measurement System | Metric | Imperial |
Click Value | 0.1 MIL = 1 cm at 100 m | 1/4 MOA ≈ 0.26" at 100 yd |
1 Unit at 100 Yards | 1 MIL ≈ 3.6" | 1 MOA ≈ 1.047" |
Ease of Use | Better for metric-based rangefinding | Familiar for imperial users |
Popularity | Military, tactical shooters | Hunters, U.S.-based shooters |
Pros and Cons
MIL Turrets
Pros:
- Simple metric conversions
- Common in military scopes
- Fewer clicks for adjustments
Cons:
- Less familiar to imperial users
- Slightly coarser adjustments at short range
MOA Turrets
Pros:
- More precise at short range
- Familiar for U.S. shooters
- More options in the U.S. market
Cons:
- Conversions can be confusing
- Requires more clicks for large adjustments
Which One Should You Choose?
Your choice between MIL and MOA turrets depends on your background and shooting needs:
- Choose MIL if you use the metric system or shoot in tactical/military contexts.
- Choose MOA if you’re more comfortable with the imperial system and do most of your shooting in yards.
Ultimately, both systems are capable of precise adjustments — consistency in using and understanding your chosen system is what matters most.
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