6 Best Leupold Scopes for 300 Yards

Outdoor Moran is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn More

If you are looking for the best Leupold scope for 300 yards you came to the right place.

It’s difficult to hit a target at 300 yards, and using the wrong scope makes it almost impossible. Although 300 yards is not excessively long for hunting, there are occasions when a longer shot is required.

Choose a Leupold scope with a user-friendly reticle, illumination, magnification, and high light transmission despite weather and lighting conditions if you want to acquire the target at a distance of 300 yards.

 

If you are in a hurry, here is a summary of the best Leupold Scopes for 300 yards

 

1) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope

 

  • Length:12.39 in
  • Weight: 12.2 oz
  • Reticle: Duplex
  • Tube Diameter: 1 in

 

 

2) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Rifle Scope

Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Rifle Scope

 

  • Length:13.5 in
  • Weight: 19 oz
  • Reticle: Illum. FireDot Duplex CDS
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm

 

 

3) Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope

best Leupold scope for 300 yards

 

  • Length:12.6 in
  • Weight: 12.6 oz
  • Reticle: CDS-ZL Duplex, Duplex
  • Tube Diameter: 1 in

 

 

4) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x33mm Riflescope

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x33mm Riflescope

 

  • Length:11.43 in
  • Weight: 12.1 oz
  • Reticle: Fine Duplex
  • Tube Diameter: 1 in

 

 

5) Leupold Mark 3HD 4-12x40mm Riflescope

Leupold Mark 3HD 4-12x40mm Riflescope

 

  • Length:12.6 in
  • Weight: 16.2 oz
  • Reticle: TMR
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm

 

 

6) Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope
Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope
  • Length:11.04 in
  • Weight: 11.1 oz
  • Reticle: Rimfire MOA
  • Tube Diameter: 1 in

 

 

 

 

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Leupold Scope for 300 Yards

Zoom ranges and magnification

Knowing what kind of hunting or shooting you’ll be doing will help you figure out what magnification range you’ll require. In wide open spaces, a scope with a larger magnification range, such as 4-12 or 3-18, provides excellent versatility.

On the other hand, if you’re hunting thick timber, the lower end of the magnification range, such as 1, 2, or 3 power, maybe more important.

The zoom ratio determines the magnification range of your device. With a higher zoom ratio, you can accomplish more with a single scope. A scope with a 3:1 zoom ratio, for example, will always have a top magnification that is three times that of the bottom magnification.

Optical system

To win in the most difficult conditions, look for scopes with an optical system that provides unmatched image quality, glare reduction, and low-light performance.

Hardcore hunters who never miss an opportunity to prove themselves in the wild will want an optical performance that will take their hunting abilities to the next level.

Whether you’re going on your first hunt or replacing the scopes on all of your rifles, you’ll need a scope with a reliable optical system. In the moment of truth, the price should be correct and the product should always perform.

Type of Reticle

Every reticle has a central aiming point. In low-light situations or against busy backgrounds like foliage, thicker reticles are advantageous. Fine crosshairs, on the other hand, are ideal when precision is required and you don’t want to obscure too much of the target, but they can blend into patterned backgrounds.

Reliability

A reliable optic is essential for any type of long-range shooting, but scope reliability can be difficult to assess, especially before spending your hard-earned money. However, three major considerations must be made: There is no retention, trackability, or repeatability.

The scopes should be able to maintain a zero no matter how much abuse they are subjected to. The ability of a riflescope to provide accurate, instantaneous reticle adjustments every time the turrets are adjusted, without the need for the scope to “settle in,” is referred to as “repeatability.” To avoid missing your target, make sure your scope is tracking properly.

Now let’s look at the best 300 yards Leupold scopes.

Best Leupold Scope for 300 yards-Top Picks

 

1) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope

 

The Leupold VX Freedom 3-9x40mm  main tube is made of solid 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum and measures 1″ in diameter.

The scope weighs only 12.2 ounces and has a scratch-resistant matte black finish making it one of the lightest and most versatile scopes.

The scope is nitrogen-purged,fog-proof, and is completely waterproof.

The riflescope’s glass is exceptionally clear with incredible light transmitting prowess thanks to the proprietary coatings, lens design, and internal construction.

The Leupold scope features a shockproof construction for  repeatability and dependability.

You get ample eye relief of 3.7-4.2 in, and a large eye box too.

The Leupold Twilight Light Management System works to reduce glare and improve image quality.

The Duplex reticle has a number of variations – Duplex CDS, Hunt-Plex, and Tri-MOA CDS – giving the user many options.

It is a versatile scope designed to meet a variety of hunting needs, making it an excellent choice for a seasoned hunter.

If you are a firm believer in purchasing scopes made in the United States, the Leupold VX freedom is made in the United States.

Features

  • Zoom Ratio: 3:1
  • Attachment/Mount Type: Ring
  • Eye Relief: 4.2 – 3.7 in
  • Tube Diameter: 1 in
  • Field of View, Linear: 33.1 – 13.6 ft at 100 yds
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
  • Magnification: 3 – 9 x
  • Parallax: Fixed
  • Custom Dial System
  • Lenses that are scratch-resistant
  • Twilight Lighting Control System
  • ZeroStop system
  • Aluminum aircraft grade 6061-T6 construction

Pros

  • Great eye relief
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Full lifetime warranty
  • 100% Waterproof and fog proof

Cons

  • No side focus & Adjustable objective

 

2) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Rifle Scope

Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Rifle Scope

 

This is the best scope for hunters or shooters who want lightweight optics with plenty of magnification for long-range shots, crystal clear glass for accurate target detection and identification, and don’t want to break the bank.

The VX-5HD features a High-Definition optical system for enhanced clarity and the Twilight Max Light Management System for even better low-light performance, giving hunters a distinct advantage at dawn and dusk when the biggest game is active.

Its FireDot illuminated reticles deliver daylight-bright, red dot-like performance with a simple one-button intensity adjustment.

It also features the Ballistics Aiming System, which can assist you in mastering the art of accurate, long-range shooting.

The new CDS-ZL2 (Custom Dial System ZeroLock 2) elevation dial is lockable, preventing it from accidentally rotating off zero. If necessary, the user can increase the elevation by two turns with a single button press.

The button sinks in on the second revolution of the elevation dial, indicating that you’ve reached the second turn and can now dial for longer ranges without losing your place.

The side focus adjusts the parallax of the scope, making the reticle clearer and with less perceived movement when shooting at different distances.

When returning the dial to zero, the ZeroStop system creates a backstop to ensure that you do not accidentally turn the dial a full revolution in the wrong direction.

Features

  • ‎Zoom Ratio: 5:1
  • Rugged performance
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
  • Attachment/Mount Type: Ring
  • Eye Relief: 3.7 – 3.82 in
  • Magnification: 3 – 15 x
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Exit Pupil: 2.9 mm
  • Battery Type: CR2032
  • Field of View, Linear: 38.2 – 7.9 ft at 100 yds
  • Made of aircraft-grade aluminum 6061-T6.
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • BAS (Ballistic Aiming System)
  • Zero Lock Adjustment with Revolution Indicator (CDS-ZL2)
  • Designed, machined, & assembled in the USA

Pros

  • Rezero Windage Adjustment Pop-Up
  • One button brightness control with a high/low indicator
  • Guard-Ion Rain Shedding Coating
  • Generous eyebox
  • Lightweight
  • Unparalleled low-light performance

Cons

  • No adjustable objective

 

3) Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope

best Leupold scope for 300 yards

 

The VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm is one of the most popular models for a reason; it simply works in almost any hunting situation.

With this extremely versatile magnification range, tight brush and long-range shots are no problem. It provides legendary performance and exceptional clarity in a remarkably tough and lightweight package.

This scope has excellent low-light performance as well as an extremely tough, lightweight design.

The Xtended Twilight Lens System optimizes the transmission of low-light wavelengths, allowing you to see low-light scene details in greater, brighter detail than with any other scope available.

DiamondCoat 2, an ion-assist lens coating, is applied to the exterior lens surfaces for the highest level of light transmission and abrasion resistance ever offered. DiamondCoat 2 also aids light transmission, resulting in increased brightness, clarity, and contrast, and will prove its worth in the most remote locations on the planet.

The twin bias spring gives the erector up to 30% more holding force, virtually eliminating erector system backlash and stress on the scope’s vital internal workings for longer life. Erector system with a 3:1 zoom ratio that can be used in a variety of situations.

Its blackened lens edges reduce light diffusion, allowing more usable light to reach the shooter. The image becomes brighter and more contrasty as a result of this.

This scope also includes their exclusive, proprietary Argon/Krypton gas blend, which virtually eliminates the effects of thermal shock and further reduces the diffusion of gases sealed inside your scope than our proven nitrogen technology already does.

For excellent lens protection in the field and while in storage, a field-functional and durable bikini-style lens cover is included. Leupold only uses aerospace-grade aluminum from the United States.

The absolute waterproof and fog-proof integrity of the VX-3HD means it’s ready to perform in any situation.

Mount this 3.5-10×40 hunting scope to your favorite rifle to improve your shooting skills on the hunting grounds.

Features

  • 3:1 zoom ratio
  • Reversible throw lever
  • Custom Dial System
  • ZeroLock system
  • Incredible clarity at all magnification levels
  • Scratch resistant lenses
  • Elite Optical System

Pros

  • DiamondCoat 2 coating is applied to the exterior lens surfaces.
  • Eye relief is increased, and the eye box is larger.
  • The lens edges have been blackened to reduce light diffusion.
  • A versatile erector system with a 3:1 zoom ratio.
  • Aluminum of the highest quality, aerospace-grade domestically is used.
  • Lens Cover with a Long Life
  • The Xtended Twilight Lens System optimizes low-light wavelength transmission.
  • Waterproof & Fogproof

Cons

  • No side focus

 

4) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x33mm Riflescope

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x33mm Riflescope

 

For its compact size and external focus ring, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x33mm scope is the ideal small-caliber optic.

There’s something about shooting rimfire or an air rifle that makes you happy, whether you’re training or just having fun, and Leupold’s VX-Freedom 3-9x33mm EFR is designed to make the most of either.

The VX Freedom line provides high-quality performance at a lower cost than high-end scopes.

This lightweight scope is made of aircraft-grade aluminum 6061-T6 for long-term durability and is designed for shooting in clear or rainy conditions.

The Fine Duplex Reticle on this scope is ideal for precision shots and makes acquiring small targets easier. Adjust the parallax from 10 meters to infinity with the extended focus ring.

The rear focal plane reticles of the VX Freedom scope remain fine at high power and barely cover the target. Ballistic reticles can be fine-tuned as subtensions change with zoom.

It also features 1/4 MOA precision finger click windage and elevation adjustments for absolute repeatability and dependability over the course of a lifetime of heavy use.

Its ultra-lightweight 1-inch main tube saves weight, provides durability, and has a classic look while also providing extreme Military-Standard scratch resistance for added protection.

Features

  • Extended Focus Ring (EFR)
  • Easy-To-Grip Power Selector
  • Punisher Tested
  • 3:1 Zoom Ratio
  • 1/4 MOA Finger Click
  • Advanced Optical System
  • 1 Inch Main tube
  • Twilight Light Management System

Pros

  • Scratch Resistant Lenses
  • Incredible glare reduction
  • Waterproof & Fogproof
  • True light transmission for extended glassing sessions
  • Reduced parallax effects at different distances with adjustable objective
  • Shockproof

Cons

  • No locking dial

 

5) Leupold Mark 3HD 4-12x40mm Riflescope

Leupold Mark 3HD 4-12x40mm Riflescope

 

The Mark 3HD is designed for shooters who require a rifle scope that is rugged, precise, and repeatable.

The 4-12x40mm model is ideal for mid-range to long-range shots, making it a great scope for almost any rifle in your arsenal.

MIL-based adjustments are made with HD lenses, and an optional FireDot illuminated reticle with seven settings gets you on target quickly and creates a visible aiming point in all light conditions.

The Elite Optical System from Leupold provides the light transmission, glare reduction, and resolution that serious hunters and shooters demand all-day performance, while Motion Sensor Technology extends battery life (MST).

With the easy-to-grip power selector, this scope quickly changes magnifications, disperses recoil energy for unrivaled durability, and increases adjustment for longer shots with a 30mm main tube.

The superior ruggedness of the Leupold Mark 3HD has been verified through Leupold’s Punisher testing process, and it is waterproof, fog proof, and guaranteed to perform for the rest of your life.

Features

  • 4x-12x magnification
  • 3:1 zoom ratio
  • Ultra-lightweight design
  • P5 dial with precise, repeatable 1/10th MIL adjustments
  • Scratch Resistant Lenses
  • Leupold’s Elite Optical System
  • Side Focus adjusts the scope’s parallax
  • Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
  • Multiple reticle options
  • Ergonomic power selector

Pros

  • Unparalleled light transmission
  • Incredible glare reduction
  • 100% Waterproof, fog proof, shockproof
  • Ultra-lightweight design
  • Scratch-resistant lenses

Cons

  • No adjustable objective

 

6) Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope

Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope

 

You get best-in-class optics and unbeatable accuracy with the Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire Riflescope.

It’s built to the same toughness standards as Leupold’s top-tier rifle scopes, with a lifetime warranty and a unique Second Focal Plane, Rimfire MOA reticle that’ll take your plinking to new heights.

Hash marks in 1 MOA increments. For rimfire targets, the hash marks are extra fine, with the 5 MOA marks slightly heavier for quick reference.

The Twilight Light Management System produces bright, clear, crisp images, allowing you to quickly locate your target in low light or when it is obscured by brush.

It has a scratch-resistant coating on the outer lens surfaces that meets military standards for extreme abrasion.

The turrets for elevation and windage adjust in 1/4 MOA click increments. The VX-Freedom Rimfire Rifle Scope is made of a 1″ 6061-T6 aluminum tube that is both waterproof and fog proof.

Features

  • Main Tube: 1 inch
  • Hash marks are provided in 1 MOA increments.
  • 3:1 Zoom Ratio
  • 1/4 MOA Finger Click
  • Punisher Tested
  • Rear Focal Plane (RFP)

Pros

  • Twilight Light Management System
  • 100% Waterproof and Fog-proof
  • Power Selector with a Comfortable Grip
  • Lenses that are scratch-resistant
  • Dial System with Finger Clicks

Cons

  • No side focus & No adjustable objective

Related

Type of Leupold Reticles

Every reticle has a central aiming point. In low-light situations or against busy backgrounds like foliage, thicker reticles are advantageous. Fine crosshairs, on the other hand, are ideal when precision is required and you don’t want to obscure too much of the target, but they can blend into patterned backgrounds. Fortunately, Leupold has a wide range of reticles to meet your needs. Here are a few of our favorite hunting reticles:

Duplex Reticle

Duplex reticle

The Duplex reticle is the most widely used–and copied–hunting reticle in history.

This iconic reticle was created by Leupold in 1962 and features heavy posts that taper to thin lines at the center for fast target acquisition.

It’s ideal for beginners or anyone who wants a straightforward aiming point with no distractions.

Heavy lines draw your eye to the center of the reticle, where it narrows into a fine crosshair.

Firedot reticle

Firedot Reticle

In low-light situations, an illuminated FireDot draws your eye to the crosshairs’ center, allowing you to lock on target faster.

The twilight hunter reticle from Leupold combines this technology with a thick-to-thin Duplex post design that obscures less of the target and image.

This is the fast-handling reticle you want if you’re hunting at dawn or dusk.

BDC reticle

BDC 60 Crossbow Reticle

The famous Duplex design is also used in BDC (bullet drop compensation) reticles, such as the Boone & Crockett. These reticles, on the other hand, include markers that allow long-range shooters to account for bullet drops.

Because this is a rear focal plane reticle, the hash marks will only measure correctly when the scope is set to the highest magnification available.

Type Of Leupold Mounts

Standard (STD) Mount

Standard (STD) mounts

Standard mounts from Leupold are precision engineered to meet the needs of even the most discerning hunters. High precision allows you to get the most out of the accuracy of your scope and rifle, and machined steel construction ensures that this quality will last.

Steel 1-piece and 2-piece bases with windage adjustment and front dovetail pivots are available, with the rear windage adjustment holding the base in place while bore sighting.

Quick release Mount

Quick Release (QR) mounts

This mount style allows you to remove the scope and reattach it within 1/2″ of the original point-of-impact. The lever mechanism, which is machined to precise tolerances, engages the steel base to the ring, pulling it down and forward and locking it into its “zero” position.

Dual dovetail Mount

Dual Dovetail (DD) mounts

It’s one of the most powerful systems available, and it’s built for the most powerful guns. The twist-and-lock connection with the base provides a secure connection. Any Leupold Dual Dovetail ring is compatible with these bases.

Backcountry Mount

Backcountry mounts

Back Country cross-slot bases are made of lightweight, long-lasting 7075-T6 aircraft aluminum. Picatinny and Weaver’s Leupold rings can be swapped out. For long-range shooting, choose between zero elevation or 20 MOA.

Front Focal Plane Vs Rear Focal Plane

The location of the reticule within the rifle scope and how the reticle behaves when adjusting the scope’s magnification are the differences between a first and second focal plane scope.

The reticle of a rifle scope is either in the first focal plane (FFP) or the second focal plane (SFP) (SFP).

When you change the magnification on an FFP rifle scope, the reticle you see changes in size, becoming larger as the magnification goes up. The reticle in SFP remains the same size at all magnification levels, making it easier to see at all ranges, but at a cost.

Why Leupold Scopes

  • They have high-quality optical lenses.
  • The outer lens surfaces of these scopes have a scratch-resistance coating that meets military standards for extreme abrasion.
  • They have one of the best light management systems in the industry, which results in bright, crisp images.
  • They’re made to be completely waterproof and fog proof, allowing them to perform in any situation.
  • Despite their wide range of price points, they do not compromise on quality

You may Also Like: Best Rifle scopes for Hunting

Best Leupold Scope for 300 Yards FAQs

What magnification do I need to see 300 yards?

Most shooting targets at 300 yards are a matter of skill, but we recommend using at least 10x magnification to have a chance.

What scope is better than Leupold?

With the build quality of their scopes, Leupold may have a slight advantage. If you’re looking for a scope, however, your decision will most likely be based on personal preference.

How does a rifle scope work?

There are three lenses in a rifle scope. The objective lens is the one that is the furthest away from the user’s eye. It collects light and directs it to the erector lens, which flips the image and directs it to the magnifying lens, which provides zoom or magnification. The light is then directed to the ocular lens, where the magnified image can be seen by the user.

What is the best scope for a rifle?

It all depends on the rifle you’re using and how far you want to shoot from. The longer the rifle’s range, the more powerful the scope you’ll need for accurate shots.

Conclusion

As you can see, hunting at 300 yards requires a high target acquisition and detection range to meet all of your needs in the hunting and shooting field.

The above best Leupold scope for 300 yards recommendations will improve your overall hunting experience and ability. All of the scopes listed above are of high quality and come with a guarantee that they will meet your hunting needs; we hope you find one that is right for you!

Read Also: 5 Best Leupold Scopes for 400 Yards