Introducing Nightforce Custom BDC Dials
Posted by Nightforce Optics on Aug 18th 2026
For hunters and shooters who want a fast, simple solution for dialing elevation in the field, Nightforce now offers custom Bullet Drop Compensating (BDC) elevation dials for compatible NX6™ riflescopes. Each dial is engraved using rifle, ammunition, and environmental information provided by the user, creating clear yardage references for fast, repeatable target engagements.
The Nightforce Custom BDC Dial Builder guides shooters through riflescope compatibility, ballistic setup, engraving review, and a final dial proof before placing the order.
A Custom Elevation Dial Built for A Rifle
A standard elevation dial is marked in MOA or MRAD. A custom BDC dial replaces the turret markings with yardages calculated for specific ballistic profiles. In the field, the shooter ranges the target and turns the dial to the corresponding distance.
Build and Review the Dial
Before a dial is ordered, the following steps must be completed:
- Choose the NX6 configuration. Identify the riflescope model and the adjustment unit (MOA or MRAD). The builder will identify the compatible BDC dial or conversion kit.
- Enter ballistic information. Select a bullet from the library or enter verified bullet and load data, then add the rifle and environmental conditions.
- Review the engraving table. Inspect the calculated yardage marks and any turret-spacing limits. Approved custom values can be entered before continuing.
- Inspect the dial proof. Review the flat engraving layout and 3D dial preview before submission.
- Confirm and order. Check the final configuration, save or print the data for reference, and add the selected part to the cart.
Watch the Custom BDC Dial Builder guide.
NX6 Compatibility
The builder supports NX6 F2 2-12x42, 3-18x50, 4-24x50, and 6-36x56 riflescopes, along with compatible NX6 riflescopes equipped with an exposed FieldSet™ elevation turret. All NX6 1-6x24 models are not compatible with this BDC dial system.
Capped NX6 F2 Riflescopes
A capped NX6 F2 riflescope requires the model-specific Capped-to-BDC Conversion Kit. The kit converts the elevation turret to an exposed FieldSet configuration and includes the custom BDC, or standard MOA dial created through the builder. While exposed dials can swap between all compatible NX6 models, it is important to select the correct magnification of the optic when ordering the conversion kit.
Exposed FieldSet Riflescopes
A compatible NX6 riflescope that already has an exposed FieldSet elevation turret requires only the custom BDC dial. The finished dial is matched to the riflescope's MOA or MRAD adjustment and the submitted ballistic profile.
Learn more about the rugged, repeatable design of the Nightforce FieldSet turret system.
Custom BDC or Standard MOA Dial?
A custom BDC dial is intended for shooters who want direct yardage references for a known rifle and load. A standard MOA dial retains turret markings and is better suited to shooters who prefer to dial from a ballistic solution, change rifles or loads frequently, or need a conventional replacement dial.
For standard MOA conversion kits and replacement dials, visit the NX6 Dials and Conversion Kits page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a custom BDC dial for any NX6 riflescope?
Except for the NX6 1-6x24 F1 and 1-6x24 F2 models, all other NX6 models are compatible with customized BDC dials.
What information do I need?
Customers will need to provide important information about their firearm, ammunition, and the environment in which they expect to use the dial. For firearm and ammunition data, the user will need to provide the bullet manufacturer, bullet weight, and ballistic coefficient, as well as the rifle’s muzzle velocity, the range at which the rifle is zeroed, and the distance between the centerline of the optic and the centerline of the bore. For environmental data, the user will need to provide the sea-level-equivalent altitude, temperature, relative humidity, and relative barometric pressure for the intended shooting location.
Can I review the yardage marks before ordering?
Yes. The calculated engraving table, spacing limits, flat dial proof, and 3D preview are shown before the configuration is submitted. The calculated values can be overwritten by the user to reflect field-tested and proven data.
Can I save the configuration for reference?
Yes. The final configuration can be printed or saved as a PDF before purchase.
What happens if I change ammunition or rifle setup?
A custom BDC dial is matched to the ballistic profile submitted. Changes to the ammunition, muzzle velocity, zero range, scope height, or atmospheric conditions can change the accuracy of the data.
What is the difference between a capped conversion kit and a dial-only option?
NX6 riflescopes equipped with factory-capped turrets require a conversion kit to accept exposed BDC or standard MOA dials. The conversion kit is included with the exposed dial when this option is selected. NX6 models equipped with Exposed FieldSet Turrets can accept BDC dials without any alteration. Capped models require a conversion kit only once, after which any exposed NX6 dial with the corresponding angular measurement—MOA or MRAD—can be easily installed. Note that the NX6 1-6x24 F1 and 1-6x24 models cannot accept exposed elevation dials, and no conversion kit is offered for these models.
Build A Custom BDC Dial
Start by selecting the correct NX6 model and current turret configuration. The builder will identify the compatible part, guide the ballistic inputs, and provide the engraving proof before checkout.