Leupold Rifle Scope Reviews

Optics manufacturer Leupold produces a wide variety of hunting scopes for the outdoorsman; however, the difference between models can be a little confusing to even an avid sportsman. While I will not attempt to cover all rifle scopes made by Leupold below is a brief overview of some of the most popular scopes they make.

Leupold VX 3 – This is probably the most wanted scope by nearly every big game hunter out there.  While this model is available in configurations from 1.5-5 x 20mm all the way up to 8.5-25 x 50mm, it is the 3.5-10 x 40mm and the 3.5-10 x 50mm that most outdoorsmen have their eye on.  Unlike most scopes in its class that are filled with nitrogen, the VX 3 uses a new argon/krypton gas. The lenses on these scopes also receive special coatings for both scratch resistance and for increased light transmission. A basic 3-9 x 40mm model will cost right around $500.

Leupold VX-II – Still a high end scope, the VX-II doesn’t have all the latest technologies and features of the VX 3. However, the VX-II still has a high end lens coating, although not the same as the VX 3, and is also known for its durability. Many serious hunters dream about the VX 3, but it is the VX-II that the majority of them end up buying.  While it may not have all the bells and whistles of its big brother, it is a clear, durable scope that holds it zero. A 3-9 x 40mm version of the VX-II sells for just over $300.

Leupold VX-I – For those who are still priced out of a $300 VX-II rifle scope, Leupold has introduced a more budget friendly version the VX-I. This is getting down to the meat and potatoes version. No bells and whistles, no high end lens treatments, and unlike the higher end series magnification options are limited to 2-7x, 3-9x, and 4-12x. Windage and elevations are friction adjusted which basically means no audible click when making adjustments. However, the VX-I still has a decent amount of reticle, and finish choices. A 3-9 x 40mm version of the VX-I will run about $230, so about $70 less than a VX-II version.

Leupold Rifleman – The bare bones way to own a Leupold, the Rifleman is the base model. Similar to the VX-I in many ways such as being available only in 2-7x, 3-9x, and 4-14x configurations, and having friction windage and elevation adjustments. However, the Leupold Rifleman is only available in matte finish and all models only have one reticle option. Furthermore, unlike most of its siblings it makes windage and elevation adjustment in1/2moa instead of 1/4moa. While it may not have many new features to brag about, the Rifleman does carry the Leupold name as well as the same lifetime guarantee that the other Leupold scopes have. A 3-9 x 40mm version of the Rifleman runs right at $200 and is the about the cheapest way to put a Leupold on your rifle.