LEUPOLD VX-5HD 4-20x52 CDS-ZL2 Side Focus FireDot Duplex illuminated rifle scope

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 4x, it provides a wide field of view to facilitate game spotting, while at 20x, it offers extraordinary magnification for the longest shots, a situation that may arise in stalking modalities. The VX-5HD is essentially a smaller sibling to the VX-6HD, offered at a lower price point while logically lacking some of the more advanced features of the superior range. However, it does so without sacrificing many of the characteristics that any hunter looks for in an optic of this type.

The specific features of the VX-6HD that we will not see 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 assist in adjusting the magnification ring. Also, all VX-6HD scopes feature an illuminated reticle as a standard characteristic, whereas it is an optional add-on for the VX-5HD range.

This scope distinguishes itself through the use of excellent quality lenses, which feature "High Definition" (HD) properties. Furthermore, VX-5HD models are equipped with the "Twilight Max Light Management System" technology, an aspect that gives the hunter an advantage during the hours of peak activity for certain game, typically at dawn and dusk. For instance, in the case of roe deer, it is well-known that crepuscular moments offer the greatest opportunities for harvesting. During those hours, lighting conditions are precarious; only quality lenses, like those of the VX-5HD, are capable of providing defined, sharp, and bright images. The manufacturer guarantees that this scope 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 scopes, 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 of any riflescope is its mechanical quality—meaning that if we adjust the reticle by a series of MOAs using the turrets, this correction is reflected exactly at 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 click at 100 m. The windage turret has a protective cap, which is appreciated as it is usually the one most exposed to unintended changes due to friction and accidental bumps. 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 obtrusive. Scopes from this North American manufacturer are known for their mechanical precision, something we have been able to verify by performing the "box test" using graduated targets.

In relation to this, it should be noted that this scope features its well-known ZeroLock custom marking system (CDS-ZL2). With this, the buyer includes a custom-engraved turret dial, according to the cartridge specifications provided by the buyer 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. Additionally, the shooter’s eye safety is guaranteed, even with especially powerful calibers like magnums. Regarding its ruggedness, like all LEUPOLD optics, it is an especially robust scope constructed with a 6061-T6 aeronautical aluminum body. The VX-5HD is waterproof and fogproof, and it also has the Guard-Ion lens coating. According to the company, this treatment consists of "ion-bombarding the lens molecular structure," resulting in exterior lenses that repel water, dirt, and fingerprints very effectively.

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 function correctly during testing, adjustments are made to the design, and it is tested again.

Finally, regarding its reticle, this reference features the "FireDot Duplex" model, which is especially popular because it has a red dot in the center of the crosshairs and is designed to assist 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 poor, a circumstance where it can be very difficult to find the crosshairs.

NOTE: LEUPOLD scopes and binoculars have a lifetime warranty, a very important aspect to consider when deciding on optics from this manufacturer.



Features:

• Manufactured with a 34 mm tube made of 6061-T6 aeronautical-grade aluminum.
• Lightweight, weighing only 666 g.
• Wide field of view at 100 m: 9.37 m - 4x / 1.93 m - 20x.
• Exclusive proprietary Argon/Krypton gas blend, which virtually eliminates the effects of thermal shock and reduces the loss of confined gases, even more effectively than proven nitrogen technology.
• Exceptional image sharpness throughout the magnification range. Thanks to the application of proprietary lens coatings, light transmission is maximized in blue and red, in addition to balancing other colors, to display the highest possible contrast. Glare is controlled with special mechanical structures.
• Guard-Ion protective rain coating, extremely durable and resistant to scratches, water, dirt, and fingerprints.
• The internal erector tube features a twin-spring system called "Twin Bias," made of a beryllium-copper alloy, which possesses 30% more holding force to withstand the most intense recoil and abuse.
• Features long eye relief: 94 mm - 4x / 97 mm - 20x. It also has a generous "eyebox," making it very easy and fast to adjust head position relative to the eyepiece for a perfect view.
  
• Illuminated FireDot Duplex reticle, designed for hunting.
  
• MOA turrets: 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 rotation 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 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)

4-20x52

Finish

Matte

Tube

34mm

Reticle

FireDot Duplex

Field of view (m at 100m)

12.77 at 4x / 2.74 at 20x

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

7.27

Adjustment range (Elevation / Windage)

75 MOA / 75 MOA

Exit pupil (mm)

3.7

Eye relief (mm)

94-97

Total length (mm)

373

Weight (g)

666

Waterproof / Fogproof

Yes

Color

Black

Reticle: Illuminated FireDot Duplex (second focal plane).