MOA vs MRAD:

MOA vs MRAD: Choosing the Right Rifle Scope Adjustment System 

When getting into shooting, one of the early technical decisions you’ll encounter is whether to choose a scope that uses MOA (Minute of Angle) or MRAD (Milliradian) for adjustments. This can be confusing—both systems are used to make precise adjustments to point of aim, both have strengths and weaknesses, and opinions among shooters are often divided. 

This guide will walk you through what each system means, how they work, and which one might be best for your style of shooting. We'll also use real-world data, clear tables, and detailed breakdowns to help you decide confidently. 

What is MOA? 

MOA (Minute of Angle) is an angular unit of measurement commonly used in scopes that operate in imperial units (inches and yards). It allows shooters to adjust the reticle or turret to shift the point of impact for bullet drop, wind drift, or both. 

• 1 MOA = 1/60th of a degree 

• At 100 yards, 1 MOA ≈ 1.047 inches (often rounded to 1 inch for simplicity) 

• Most scopes are adjustable in 0.25 MOA or 0.125 MOA clicks 

Each click moves the point of impact a set distance depending on the range. Because MOA is angular, the shift increases with distance. 

MOA Adjustment Table 

The finer click values of 0.125 MOA scopes allow for more precise zeroing and adjustments—especially useful in competitive formats that demand sub-MOA groupings. 

What is MRAD? 

MRAD (Milliradian), short for milliradian, is another angular measurement system—this time derived from the metric system. MRAD scopes are particularly popular in military and long-range precision shooting environments. 

• 1 MRAD = 1/1000 of a radian 

• At 100 meters, 1 MRAD = 10 centimeters 

• At 100 yards, 1 MRAD ≈ 3.6 inches 

• Most MRAD scopes adjust in 0.1 MRAD increments 
  
  

MRAD Adjustment Table 

*Note: 0.05 MRAD scopes are available but typically more expensive and geared towards elite-level shooters. 

In yards and inches: 

MOA vs MRAD: Precision and Practicality 

One of the core differences between MOA and MRAD is adjustment resolution. 

Precision at 1000 Yards 

The smaller the click value, the more granular the control. This can be particularly advantageous in disciplines like F-Class shooting, where ultra-precise adjustments matter. 

Real-World Example: DOPE Chart Comparison 

Using a 6.5 Creedmoor rifle as an example, here’s how scope adjustments compare in MRAD and MOA: 

MRAD DOPE (0.1 MRAD Clicks) 

MOA Equivalent (0.25 MOA Clicks) 

As shown, MRAD requires fewer clicks for the same elevation correction, which can save time and simplify calculation under pressure—especially important in tactical or timed competitions like the Precision Rifle Series (PRS). 

Choosing Between MOA and MRAD 

There’s no “right” answer—only what’s right for your shooting style and environment. 

Use MOA if: 

• You're more comfortable with imperial units (inches/yards) 

• Your local ranges are marked in yards 

• You value fine adjustment for precision disciplines 

• You’re involved in benchrest or F-Class competitions 

Use MRAD if: 

• You prefer metric units (meters/centimeters) 

• You shoot long-range or PRS-style matches 

• You need faster, easier math under pressure 

• You want a system aligned with modern military ballistics 

Summary 

Final Thoughts 

Both MOA and MRAD are precise and effective systems. The important part is to choose one and stick with it—consistency in your tools, range cards, and data sheets is far more important than which system you pick. 

If you’re just getting started and shooting mostly at ranges measured in yards with friends who all use MOA, then a 0.25 MOA scope might be ideal. But if you're interested in metric-based data, faster math, and long-distance shooting under time constraints, MRAD may be the better choice. 

Still have questions? Reach out to the team at Optics Warehouse—we’re here to help you get on target.