10 Best Leupold Scopes 2026 in the United States

The Leupold VX-6HD Gen 2 3-18x44 rifle scope is a solid choice for hunters and shooters who need a versatile, high-quality optic. Its zoom range of 3 to 18 times magnification makes it suitable for both close and long-distance shooting, offering flexibility in various hunting scenarios. The 44mm objective lens helps provide a bright and clear image, especially in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. This model features a TMOA illuminated reticle, which means the aiming point lights up to help you see better in darker environments without being too distracting. The side focus parallax adjustment allows for crisp images at different distances, which is helpful for precise shooting.

The scope’s turrets (the knobs used for adjustments) are designed for easy and accurate windage and elevation changes. Made from durable aluminum with a matte finish, it’s built to withstand tough outdoor use and weighs about 17.4 ounces, which might feel a bit heavy for some users carrying their gear all day. The eye relief is generous, giving comfortable viewing without straining your eye or risking scope bite. It mounts easily on Picatinny or Weaver rails, common on many rifles.

It doesn’t have night vision compatibility, but its robust build and lifetime warranty mean you’re getting a product designed to last. This scope suits hunters who want a reliable, precise optic for a variety of distances but might be less ideal if you need ultra-lightweight gear or night vision features.

The Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44mm Riflescope is designed primarily for serious hunters and precision shooters who need reliable performance in various conditions. Its magnification range of 3.6x to 18x allows for versatility, whether you're targeting at close range or taking a shot from a distance. The 44mm objective lens diameter helps to gather more light, which is beneficial in low-light situations.

One of the standout features is the First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle, which ensures that the reticle scales with the magnification, allowing for accurate range estimation at any zoom level. This is particularly useful for hunters who need to quickly adjust for distance. The M5C3 turrets offer precise adjustments with a low profile, enabling easy tracking without getting disoriented during adjustments. Additionally, the scope is built to be durable, being waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, which means it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.

Weighing in at only 1.62 pounds, it’s significantly lighter than similar scopes, enhancing portability without sacrificing sturdiness. The lifetime guarantee from Leupold adds peace of mind regarding its longevity and reliability. The price point can be a drawback, as it might be considered high for casual users or beginners. Some users might also find the adjustment dials a bit stiff, requiring more effort to turn than expected.

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a versatile choice for hunters and shooters looking for dependable performance across various distances. With a magnification range from 3x to 15x, it offers flexibility for both close and longer-range shots. The 30mm objective lens, while not the largest in its class, still delivers bright and clear images thanks to Leupold’s high-definition lenses and hydrophobic Guard-ion coating that repels water and dirt, helping maintain visibility in tough weather. The HTMR reticle is designed to aid precise aiming, and being in the second focal plane means it stays clear and consistent as you zoom in or out, which some users might prefer for quick target acquisition.

Its side focus parallax adjustment is easy to use even in different shooting positions, allowing shooters to maintain sharp focus without hassle. The CDS-ZL2 elevation turret with ZeroLock 2 prevents accidentally changing your zero, which is a useful feature for serious precision. Weighing just 1.2 pounds and built from durable aluminum, this scope feels sturdy yet not overly heavy. Plus, it’s fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, making it reliable in harsh conditions.

One downside is the relatively small 30mm objective lens, which may limit light gathering compared to larger lenses, potentially affecting performance in low-light situations like dawn or dusk. Also, it lacks night vision compatibility, so it’s best suited for daylight or well-lit environments. The lifetime warranty and strong customer support add peace of mind. This scope is well-suited for hunters who want a solid, versatile optic with precise adjustment features and great clarity, but those needing maximum low-light performance might want to explore options with larger lenses.