LEUPOLD VX-5HD 3-15x56 CDS-ZL2 METRIC Side Focus FireDot 4 Fine 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 3x, it provides a wide field of view to facilitate game spotting, while at 15x, it offers enough magnification for the longer-range shots that may occur in stalking modalities. 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 features of the higher-end range, but without sacrificing many of the characteristics that any hunter seeks in an optic of this type.

The specific features of the VX-6HD not found in the VX-5HD range are: a higher magnification ratio (6:1 vs. 5:1), 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 come with an illuminated reticle as a standard feature, which is an optional add-on for the VX-5HD range.

It is a riflescope that stands out for its use of excellent quality lenses featuring “High Definition” (HD) technology. Furthermore, VX-5HD models are equipped with the “Twilight Max Light Management System,” an aspect that gives the hunter an advantage during the peak activity hours of certain game, typically at dawn and dusk. For instance, in the case of roe deer, it is well known that crepuscular hours offer the greatest opportunities for harvest. At those times, light conditions are precarious, and only quality lenses, like those of the VX-5HD, are capable of providing sharp, crisp, and bright images. The manufacturer asserts that this scope provides 30 minutes more hunting time at dusk and dawn compared to competing optics.

Moreover, as expected, at its maximum magnification, it lacks any optical aberration or edge distortion, providing a sharp image from edge to edge. As is characteristic of this brand, the number of lenses is lower than in other brands, and their arrangement is carefully considered to determine the treatments applied to each one. The result is a clarity and image quality difficult to find in other manufacturers.

The second important aspect of any riflescope is its mechanical quality. That is, if we adjust the reticle by a series of MOAs via the turrets, this correction should be reflected exactly in the point of impact. The low-profile turrets are graduated in ¼ MOA per click, which means a correction of 7 mm for each click at 100 m. The windage turret has a protective cap, which is appreciated, as it is usually the most exposed to unintentional changes from friction or accidental bumps. The side parallax turret is also very easy to use.

Overall, the turrets are large enough to be operated by people with average-sized hands, but 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 well-known "box test" using graduated targets.

In relation to this, it should be noted that this riflescope features the well-known Custom Dial System ZeroLock (CDS-ZL2). With this, the buyer receives a custom-engraved turret dial, according to the cartridge specifications provided by the user on a standardized form. In this way, once the distance is known, it is only necessary to dial it in on 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, even with particularly powerful calibers like magnums, is guaranteed. Regarding its ruggedness, it should be noted that, like all LEUPOLD optics, this is a particularly robust riflescope constructed from a 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum body. The VX-5HD is waterproof and fogproof, and it also features Guard-Ion lens coating. According to the company, this latter treatment consists of "ion-bombarding the molecular structure of the lens," resulting in exterior lenses that effectively repel water, dirt, and fingerprints.

It is worth remembering 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 perform correctly during the tests, design adjustments are made and it is tested again.

Finally, speaking of its reticle, this reference features the “FireDot 4 Fine” model, which is especially popular because it has a red dot in the center of the crosshairs and is designed to aid aiming in extremely low light conditions. For instance, this reticle is ideal for shooting an animal with a very dark coat when lighting is scarce, a circumstance where it can be very difficult to locate the crosshairs.

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



Features:

• Manufactured with a 30 mm tube made of 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum.
• Lightweight at only 632 g.
• Wide field of view at 100 m: 12.77 m - 3x / 2.74 m - 12x.
• Exclusive proprietary Argon/Krypton gas blend, which practically eliminates the effects of thermal shock and reduces the loss of confined gases even more than proven nitrogen technology.
• Exceptional image clarity throughout the magnification range. Thanks to the application of proprietary lens coatings, light transmission is maximized in blue and red, in addition to balanced colors, to show the greatest possible contrast. Glare is controlled with special mechanical structures.
• Protective rain coating called Guard-Ion, extremely durable and resistant to scratches, water, dirt, and fingerprints.
• The internal erector tube features a “Twin Bias” dual spring system made of a beryllium-copper alloy, which possesses 30% more holding force to withstand the most intense recoil and abuse.
• Long eye relief: 94 mm - 3x / 97 mm - 12x. It also features a generous “eyebox,” making it very easy and fast to adjust the position of the head relative to the eyepiece for a perfect view.
  
• FireDot 4 Fine reticle with fiber-optic illumination system, offering a perfect balance of contrast and brightness, both in 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.
  
• Turrets in MILs: 1 click - 0.1 MIL.
• Low-profile turret with a maximum of two full rotations, allowing a maximum elevation of 38 MOAs. The lock button remains visible during the first turn and hides 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 lock 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)

3-15x56

Finish

Matte

Tube

30mm

Reticle

FireDot 4 Fine

Field of view (m at 100m)

12.77 at 3x / 2.74 at 12x

Point of impact correction per click (mm at 100m)

10

Exit pupil (mm)

3.7

Eye relief (mm)

94-97

Total length (mm)

345

Weight (g)

632

Waterproof / Fogproof

yes

Color

Black

Reticle: Illuminated FireDot 4 Fine.




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

To order the custom CDS ring, you must send the data shown on this form:

ORDER FORM