LEUPOLD VX-5HD 2-10x42 CDS-ZL2 FireDot Duplex illuminated riflescope

Maximum versatility at a reasonable price.

This riflescope is arguably one of the most versatile in the LEUPOLD catalog; with a minimum magnification range of 2x, it provides a wide field of view to facilitate target acquisition, while at 10x, we have enough magnification for the most distant shots, a situation that can occur in stalking hunting. The VX-5HD is essentially a younger sibling to the VX-6HD, offered at a lower price point, logically lacking some of the more advanced aspects of the higher-end range. However, it does not sacrifice many of the features that any hunter seeks in optics of this type.

The specific characteristics of the VX-6HD that we will not see in the VX-5HD range are: a larger 6:1 vs 5:1 magnification ratio, an electronic reticle leveling system, Alumina lens covers with a flip-back design, and a reversible throw lever to help adjust the magnification ring. Also, all VX-6HD riflescopes have an illuminated reticle as a standard feature, whereas it is an optional add-on for the VX-5HD range.

It is a riflescope that stands out for the use of excellent quality lenses, which possess the "High Definition" (HD) feature. Additionally, VX-5HD models feature "Twilight Max Light Management System" technology, an aspect that offers the hunter an advantage during the hours of greatest activity for certain prey, typically at dawn and dusk. For example, in the case of roe deer, it is well known that crepuscular moments offer the greatest harvest opportunities. During those hours, light conditions are precarious; only quality lenses, like those of the VX-5HD, are capable of providing defined, sharp, and bright images. The manufacturer asserts that this riflescope provides 30 minutes more of hunting time at dusk and dawn compared to other competing optics.

Furthermore, as expected, at its maximum magnification, it lacks any type of optical aberration or distortion at the edges, with a sharp image from edge to edge. As is characteristic of this brand of riflescopes, the number of lenses is lower than in other brands, and their arrangement is taken into account to determine the coatings applied to each one. The result is clarity and image quality that is difficult to find in other manufacturers.

The second important aspect in any riflescope is its mechanical quality. That is, if we adjust the reticle a certain number of MOAs via the turrets, this correction should be reflected exactly in the point of impact. The low-profile turrets are graduated in 1/4 MOA per click, which means a correction of 7 mm for each one at 100 m. The windage turret has a protective cap, something to be appreciated, as it is usually the most exposed to unintended changes from friction and accidental knocks. The side parallax turret is also very easy to use.

In general, the turrets are large enough to be used by people with normal-sized hands, but they are not so large as to be cumbersome. The riflescopes from this North American manufacturer are known for their mechanical precision, something we have been able to verify by performing the so-called "box test" and using graduated targets.

In relation to this, it should be noted that this riflescope features their well-known Custom Dial System ZeroLock (CDS-ZL2). With this, the buyer receives a custom-engraved turret dial based on the cartridge specifications provided by them on a standardized form. Thus, once the distance is known, it is only necessary to dial it into the turret. Additional dials can be ordered, albeit at an extra cost.

Another especially noteworthy aspect is its very generous eye relief and "eyebox," a feature that makes it easy to find a comfortable shooting position quickly. Furthermore, the safety of the shooter's eye, in particularly powerful calibers like magnums, is guaranteed. Regarding its robustness, it should be noted that like all LEUPOLD optics, it is an especially rugged riflescope, built with a 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum body. The VX-5HD is waterproof and fogproof, and it also has the Guard-Ion lens coating. According to the company, this final treatment consists of an "ion-bombardment of the lens's molecular structure," resulting in outer lenses that repel water, dirt, and fingerprints very well.

It is good to remember that every LEUPOLD design must survive 5,000 impacts delivered by a machine called "The Punisher," a recoil simulator. The force of each impact is 3 times the recoil of a .308 rifle. If the model does not function correctly during testing, adjustments are made to the design and it is tested again.

Finally, speaking of its reticle, this reference features the "FireDot Duplex illuminated" model in the second focal plane, which is especially popular because it has a red dot in the center of the crosshair and is designed to help with aiming in extremely low-light conditions. For example, this reticle is ideal for shooting at an animal with very dark fur when lighting is scarce, a circumstance where it can be very difficult to find the crosshairs.

NOTE: LEUPOLD riflescopes and binoculars have a lifetime warranty, an aspect well worth considering when deciding on optics from this manufacturer.



Features:

• Manufactured with a 30 mm tube in 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum.
• Lightweight at only 476 g.
• Wide field of view at 100 m: 18.82 m – 2x / 3.92 – 10x.
• Exclusive patented Argon / Krypton gas blend, which virtually eliminates the effects of thermal shock and reduces the loss of confined gases, even more than proven nitrogen technology does.
• Exceptional image clarity across the entire magnification range. Thanks to the application of proprietary lens coatings, light transmission in blue and red is maximized, in addition to balanced colors, to display the highest possible contrast. Glare is controlled with special mechanical structures.
• Protective rain-shedding coating called Guard-Ion, which is extremely durable and resistant to scratches, water, dirt, and fingerprints.
• The internal erector tube features a dual spring system called "Twin Bias," made from a beryllium-copper alloy, which possesses 30% more holding force to withstand the most intense recoil and abuse.
• With long eye relief: 94 mm – 2x / 97 mm – 10x. It also has a generous "eyebox," making it very easy and quick to adjust head position relative to the eyepiece for a perfect view.
• FireDot Duplex reticle with fiber-optic illumination system, offering a perfect balance of contrast and brightness in both daylight and low-light conditions.
• Patented Motion Sensor Technology (MST) automatically deactivates reticle illumination after five minutes of inactivity, reactivating instantly as soon as any movement is detected.
• MOA turrets: 1 click – 1/4 MOA.
• Low-profile turret, with a maximum of two full rotations, allowing a maximum elevation of 38 MOAs. The locking button remains visible during the first turn and is hidden during the second. The CDS-ZL2 (Custom Dial System ZeroLock2) system for the elevation turret is easily operated to set positions quickly; simply press the locking button while turning. Furthermore, the system allows for easy zeroing and, therefore, a very quick return to the starting position.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

Power x Objective Diameter (mm.)

2-10x42

Finish

Matte

Tube

30mm.

Reticle

FireDot Duplex

Field of View (m. at 100m.)

18.82 at 2x / 3.92 at 10x

Point of Impact Correction per click (mm. at 100m.)

7.25

Eye Relief (mm.)

94-97

Total Length (mm.)

319

Weight (g.)

476

Waterproof / Fogproof

Yes

Color

Black

Reticle: Illuminated FireDot Duplex.





Custom CDS Turret.
CDS™ (Custom Dial System) allows you to quickly dial in your elevation adjustment for different ranges with a custom dial that matches your specific ballistic information. Standard CDS turrets come with an MOA scale dial. You can request a custom turret for your rifle and ammunition.

To order the custom CDS ring, you must send the data found on this sheet:

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