Swampfox Optics logo
Swampfox Optics logo

All articles

What is MIL, MRAD. and MIL DOT?Updated 2 years ago

MIL(Milliradian) is a form of angular measurement similar to MOA. MILs are used to estimate the range of the target to affect bullet impact. MILs use milliradians which is 1/1000 of a radian. A radian is an angle of subtended at the center of the circle by an arc that is equal to the length of the radius of the circle. When applied to the circle, there are 360 degrees in a circle, and 6.283 radians in 360 degrees. Since MILs work with 1/1000 of a radian we multiply 6.283 by 1000 to get the number 6283. With MILs it does not matter the linear distance the shooter uses, the reticle or adjustments subtends 1/1000 of that number. The shooter will have a milliradian equaling:

1 mile at 1000 miles
1 meter at 1000 meters
1 yard at 1000 yards
10 centimeter at 100 meters
3.6 inches at 100 yards (3600 inches)

A MIL is a MIL whether it is at 100 yards or 1000 yards, the number is always the same.

Was this article helpful?
Yes
No