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10 Best Leupold Scopes 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) Mil CDS-ZL2 Side Focus HTMR Reticle Riflescope

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.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,475
Turrets

Most important from
372 reviews

Turrets
The windage turret lacks audible clicks, requiring careful adjustments to avoid accidental changes.
#2
9.4 score

Leupold VX-6HD Gen 2 3-18x44 (30mm) CDS-SZL2 Side Focus Illum. TMOA

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.

Rating
9.4
Magnification
Objective Lens Diameter
Reticle

Most important from
4 reviews

Magnification
The versatile zoom range from 3x to 18x makes it perfect for both close and long-distance shots.
Objective Lens Diameter
The bright 44mm objective lens delivers clear images even in low-light hunting conditions.
Reticle
The illuminated TMOA reticle enhances visibility in darker environments without being distracting.
Eye Relief
Generous eye relief provides comfortable viewing and helps avoid scope bite.
Parallax Adjustment
Side focus parallax adjustment ensures sharp, precise aiming at various distances.
Turrets
Easy-to-adjust turrets allow for accurate windage and elevation changes.
#3
9.1 score

Leupold Mark 5HD 7-35x56 (35mm) M5C3 FFP Tremor 3 Dark Earth Riflescope

The Leupold Mark 5HD 7-35x56 riflescope is a high-end option designed for precision shooting and professional use. Its wide magnification range of 7 to 35 times allows for flexible targeting at various distances, while the large 56mm objective lens provides excellent light gathering, helping to maintain a bright and clear image even in low light conditions. Featuring a first focal plane (FFP) reticle, the reticle scales with magnification to allow accurate range estimation at any zoom level, which is especially valuable for long-range shooters.

Rating
9.1
Magnification
Reticle
Turrets

Most important from
27 reviews

Magnification
The scope delivers crystal-clear glass with excellent magnification and intuitive controls, making it a joy to use without feeling heavy.
Reticle
The illuminated reticle offers multiple brightness settings, though only a few are truly visible and effective in practice.
Turrets
Adjustment controls can be limiting, with some users experiencing difficulties reaching full adjustment range and needing additional mounting solutions.

Top 10 Best Leupold Scopes 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) Mil CDS-ZL2 Side Focus HTMR Reticle Riflescope

Magnification: 3-15x
Objective Lens Diameter: 30 mm
Reticle: HTMR, Second Focal Plane
Field of View: 38.3 ft
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Turrets: CDS-ZL2 elevation turret, ZeroLock 2

Chosen by 1475 this week

Leupold VX-6HD Gen 2 3-18x44 (30mm) CDS-SZL2 Side Focus Illum. TMOA

Magnification: 3 to 18 times
Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
Reticle: TMOA illuminated
Eye Relief: generous
Parallax Adjustment: side focus
Turrets: easy, accurate windage and elevation

Leupold Mark 5HD 7-35x56 (35mm) M5C3 FFP Tremor 3 Dark Earth Riflescope

Magnification: 7-35x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56
Reticle: FFP Tremor 3
Field of View: 14.7 Feet
Parallax Adjustment: Yes
Turrets: Tactical-style

Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44 (35mm) M5C3 FFP PR2-MIL Dark Earth Riflescope

Magnification: 3.6-18x
Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
Reticle: FFP TMR (Mk)
Field of View: 28.3 ft
Parallax Adjustment: yes
Turrets: yes

Leupold Mark 5HD 7-35x56mm M5C3 FFP Side Focus Riflescope, Illuminated TMR Reticle

Magnification: 7-35x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Reticle: Illuminated TMR, front focal plane
Eye Relief: 3.8 inches
Parallax Adjustment: Side adjustable
Turrets: M5C3 turrets, 1/10 mil adjustments

Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 (35mm) M5C3 FFP PR2-MIL Dark Earth Riflescope

Magnification: 5-25x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Reticle: First Focal Plane TMR
Field of View: 20.4 ft
Parallax Adjustment: PR2-MIL
Turrets: PR2-MIL

Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44 (35mm) M5C3 FFP Tremor 3 Dark Earth Riflescope

Magnification: 3.6-18x
Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
Reticle: Tremor 3
Field of View: 28.3 Feet
Turrets: quick, reliable adjustments

Leupold Mark 5HD 7-35x56mm M1C3 FFP Side Focus Riflescope, PR2-MOA Reticle

Magnification: 7-35x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Reticle: PR2-MOA
Field of View: 20.4 feet
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Turrets: M1C3, quarter MOA clicks

Leupold Mark 5HD 7-35x56mm M5C3 FFP Side Focus Riflescope, PR2-MIL Reticle

Magnification: 7x to 35x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
Reticle: PR2-MIL
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Turrets: M5C3, 1/10 Mil per click

Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Metric Illum. FireDot 4 Fine Reticle Riflescope

Magnification: 3-15x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
Reticle: Illuminated FireDot 4 Fine
Eye Relief: 3.8 Inches
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Turrets: CDS-ZL2 turret, 2 revolutions, lock
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Buying Guide for the Best Leupold Scopes

Choosing the right scope for your needs can significantly enhance your shooting experience. Whether you're a hunter, a competitive shooter, or just enjoy target practice, understanding the key specifications of a scope will help you make an informed decision. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting a Leupold scope, along with explanations to guide you through the process.
MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. This is important because it determines how well you can see your target at various distances. Scopes with lower magnification (1-4x) are ideal for close-range shooting and fast target acquisition. Medium magnification (5-9x) is suitable for mid-range distances, while high magnification (10x and above) is best for long-range shooting. Choose the magnification based on the typical distance you will be shooting.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens of the scope, measured in millimeters. This spec is important because a larger objective lens allows more light to enter the scope, resulting in a brighter and clearer image. Smaller diameters (20-32mm) are lighter and more compact, suitable for short to mid-range shooting. Medium diameters (40-44mm) offer a good balance of light transmission and size, while larger diameters (50mm and above) are best for low-light conditions and long-range shooting. Consider the lighting conditions and the weight you are comfortable with when choosing the objective lens diameter.
ReticleThe reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point you see when looking through the scope. Different reticle designs serve various purposes. Simple duplex reticles are easy to use and great for general shooting. BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles help with long-range shooting by providing holdover points. Mil-dot reticles are useful for range estimation and windage adjustments. Choose a reticle based on your shooting style and the level of precision you need.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope where you can see the full field of view. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil firearms. Scopes with longer eye relief (3.5 inches or more) are better for high-recoil rifles, while shorter eye relief (around 3 inches) is sufficient for low-recoil firearms. Ensure the eye relief is adequate for your firearm to avoid injury and ensure a comfortable shooting experience.
Field of ViewField of view (FOV) is the width of the area you can see through the scope at a specific distance, usually measured in feet at 100 yards. A wider FOV allows you to see more of the target area, which is beneficial for tracking moving targets and situational awareness. Scopes with lower magnification typically offer a wider FOV, while higher magnification narrows the FOV. Consider how important it is for you to see a broader area versus focusing on a specific target when choosing the FOV.
Parallax AdjustmentParallax adjustment helps to eliminate the apparent shift of the reticle when you move your eye position. This is crucial for precision shooting at varying distances. Scopes without parallax adjustment are typically set at a fixed distance (usually 100 yards), which is fine for general shooting. Adjustable parallax (side focus or adjustable objective) is beneficial for long-range shooting and ensures the reticle remains on target regardless of eye position. If you plan to shoot at various distances, consider a scope with parallax adjustment.
TurretsTurrets are the knobs on the scope used to adjust the windage (left/right) and elevation (up/down) of the reticle. Precise and easy-to-use turrets are important for making accurate adjustments. Target turrets are larger and easier to adjust, suitable for long-range and competitive shooting. Low-profile turrets are more compact and less likely to be accidentally moved, ideal for hunting. Choose turrets based on how often you need to make adjustments and the type of shooting you do.

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