mrad - milliradians, estimating distance using the rifle scope

Estimating the distance to the target using a rifle scope with a MilDot reticle and adjustment turrets with MRAD (Milliradian) subdivisions. The angle measure MRAD (also called Mil) describes the adjustment of sight in relation to the barrel of a firearm. If the riflescope has the reticle in the 1st image plane, it increases in size when zooming. Only when the reticle is magnified is it in the correct ratio to the respective magnification factor and allows correct calculation of the distance or size of an object.

If the object size at the destination is known, the distance can be determined:

Object size in mm / Mil object size in reticle = distance in meters

Example: 1000 mm / 2.0 mils = 500 meters

The object is 500 meters away.

If the distance to the target is known, the object size can be determined:

Distance in meters x mil object size in reticle = object size in mm

Example: 500 meters x 2.0 mils = 2000 mm

The object has a height of 2 meters.

With this calculation, the distance can be calculated via MilDot reticle when shooting long-range without a rangefinder. An explanation of the MOA [Minute of Angle] subdivision can be found here.