5 Best Leupold Scopes for AR15

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If you are looking for the best Leupold Scope for ar15 read on to discover the features, pros, and more about Leupold AR15 scopes.

Leupold scopes are known for their legendary performance and dependability. With the AR15 being a favorite among hunters and shooters, which Leupold scope should you choose for the AR 15 platform?

Long and medium-range shooting, multiple-position shooting, and shooting under stress are all possible with the AR-15.

These semi-automatic rifles are popular due to their various calibers, barrel lengths, and ability to quickly adjust the rifle to your needs.

Even though it’s incredible, dependable, accurate, and versatile, an AR-15 isn’t just like any other gun; it requires a high-quality scope.

If you are in a hurry, here is a quick summary.

1) Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

  • Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
  • Magnification: 1 – 6 x
  • Reticle: FireDot Duplex
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)

 

 

 

 

2) Leupold VX-5HD 1-5x24mm Rifle Scope
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
  • Magnification: 1 – 5 x
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)

 

 

 

 

3) Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD 1-4.5x24mm Rifle Scope

Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD 1-4.5x24mm Rifle Scope

 

  • Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
  • Magnification: 1 – 4.5 x
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)

 

 

 

 

4) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

 

 

5) Leupold Mark 3HD 1.5-4x20mm Rifle Scope

Leupold Mark 3HD 1.5-4x20mm Rifle Scope

  • Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
  • Magnification: 3 – 9 x
  • Tube Diameter: 1 in
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)

 

 

 

 

 

Best Leupold Scopes for AR15

 

1) Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

 

 

 

 

The Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm offers an all-around magnification range for hunting and close-to-mid-range shooting.

This rugged scope is known for amazing light transmission, reduced glare, and a clear HD image.

The VX-6HD is one of the most flexible Leupold riflescopes, it has a wide zoom range (6:1 zoom ratio) and cutting-edge technology, which includes an in-scope electronic reticle level, CDS-ZL2 Zero Lock elevation dial, and removable throw lever.

This scope features Leupold’s Professional-Grade Optical System for unrivaled mild transmission and is designed to outperform in even the maximum hard light conditions.

Its industry-main glare discount guarantees clarity even in harsh, direct mild, and its decision and readability will fulfill the desires of any expert manual or shooter withinside the field. Additionally, it has an in-scope indicator for specific leveling and an extremely brilliant FireDot reticle to beautify your capturing experience.

It is designed with advanced sealing ways that face up to extreme temperatures, elevation changes, and shocks thus it’s waterproof and fog proof.

Features

  • Fog and waterproof
  • 6:1 Zoom Ratio
  • Lightweight
  • Rugged performance
  • Made in the USA
  • Field of View, Linear: 123.2 – 20.3 ft at 100 yds
  • Extended Battery Life
  • Extreme Fast-Focus Eyepiece
  • FireDot Illumination
  • Generous eyebox /Eye Relief (3.7 – 3.82 in)
  • Guard-Ion Rain Shedding Coat
  • Motion Sensor Technology
  • Push Button Illumination
  • Reversible Throw Lever
  • Twilight Max Light Management System
  • perform from -40ºF to 160ºF.

Pros

  • Clear images in harsh and direct light
  • The zoom range allows for close to long-range encounters
  • Ideal for low-light hunting
  • Accidental dials are eliminated by the ZeroLock system
  • Handles heavy recoil (3x the recoil of a .308 rifle)

Cons

  • Only available in Second Focal Plane
  • Quite expensive

 

2) Leupold VX-5HD 1-5x24mm Rifle Scope

Leupold VX-5HD 1-5x24mm Rifle Scope

 

 

 

 

This is one of the best scopes for competition or tactical shooters.

Leupold VX-5HD 1-5x24mmfeatures the Twilight Max HD Light Management System, for an additional 30 additional minutes of low light performance, removal of 90 percent more glare than competitors, and provision of top-notch HD lens readability, this Leupold will basically provide exceptional overall performance in low light conditions.

Get unparalleled durability with this Leupold VX5HD 15x24mm RFP rifle scope and its waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof properties thanks to its proprietary Argon/Krypton gas blend.

It is housed in a 6061T6 aluminum body. Each scope is required to survive 5,000 impacts on Leupold’s recoil simulation machine which delivers three times the recoil force of a .308 rifle.

Lightweight construction, exceptional precision, and high-quality glass combine to create this excellent optic.

Features

  • Argon/Krypton Waterproofing
  • Magnification: 1 – 5 x
  • 30mm Main tube for strength and greater range of windage and elevation adjustment.
  • 5:1 Zoom Ratio
  • Eye Relief: 3.7 – 3.82 in
  • Illuminated fire dot reticle (SFP)
  •  Aircraft Quality Aluminum construction
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
  • Exit Pupil: 4.8 mm
  • Made in the USA
  • Field of View, Linear: 123.2 – 20.4 ft at 100 yds
  • Generous eyebox allows getting on target faster
  • Guard-Ion Rain Shedding Coating le
  • Pop-Up Rezero Adjustments
  • Twilight Max Light Management System
  • Twin Bias Spring Erector System
  • Leupold Full Lifetime Guarantee.

Pros

  • Durable and scratch-resistant
  • Many hooting applications and brightness settings for changing conditions
  • Longer eye relief and generous eye box
  • Water/fog and shockproof
  • Best in class glare reduction
  • Illuminated reticle

Cons

  • Available in Second Focal Plane only
  • Small in size

 

3) Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD 1-4.5x24mm Rifle Scope

Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD 1-4.5x24mm Rifle Scope

 

 

 

This scope features sharp images at 4.5x magnification ( NRA Service Rifle competitions max) and a flat, true image at low power, making off-hand capturing quick and easy.

This scope also has Leupold’s patented Twilight Max HD light management system, which comes in handy in low light.

The guard-ion lens coating repels dirt and moisture, resulting in crisp, clear images every time you look at the glass.

With the fast-focusing eyepiece that quickly brings the reticle into focus, you can pick off targets faster, and the lightweight construction allows you to move around the field with ease to set a new personal best.

Features

  • Fast-focus eyepiece ‎‎
  • Lightweight design
  • Guard-Ion Hydrophobic Lens Coating
  • CDS-ZL2 Eliminates accidental dial movement with the push-button
  • ZeroLock system
  • Twilight Max HD Light Management System
  • Waterproof, fog proof, & shockproof‎

Pros

  • Rapid target acquisition/ engagement
  • Unmatched light transmission
  • Water, fog, and shockproof
  • Can handle heavy recoil (3x the recoil of a .308 rifle)
  • Lightweight

 

Cons

  • None

 

4) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

 

 

 

The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Scope is a fairly priced scope and very dependable for hunters and tactical shooters. All of the Leupold scopes withinside the VX freedom collection are enormously rated for their dependability and wonderful performance.

If you are a newbie searching out an easy scope with a whole lot of beneficial features, this Leupold VX-Freedom Riflescope is a great choice.

It comes with variable magnification ranging from 3x to 9x so you can focus on targets at short or long-range, a 30mm tube that allows optimal light into the scope and provides vivid images of the target.

The lenses on this scope are multi-coated, which prevents glare and improves image quality in low light conditions, making it ideal for dusk-to-dawn landscape hunting.

The lens coating increases the lens’s reliability by protecting it from scratches and dirt. This Leupold scope is made of aircraft-grade aluminum, which makes it sturdy and rugged, allowing it to withstand any harsh conditions.

This scope’s housing is water and fog-resistant, so you’ll be able to hunt or shoot in any weather condition with it. This is one of the most effective bargains because it’s inexpensive, has excellent accuracy, and has high-quality optics.

Features

  • 3:1 zoom ratio
  • Twilight Light Management System
  • Exit Pupil: 4.7 mm
  • Field of View, Linear: 33.1 – 13.6 ft at 100 yds
  • Magnification: 3 – 9 x
  • Leupold’s Advanced Optical System
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
  • Lowlight hunting performance
  • Aircraft Grade Aluminum construction
  • Eye Relief: 4.2 – 3.7 in
  • Tube Diameter: 1 in
  • Made in the USA

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Best in class glare reduction
  • Waterproof and fog proof
  • Quick target acquisition

Cons

  • None

 

5) Leupold Mark 3HD 1.5-4x20mm Rifle Scope

Leupold Mark 3HD 1.5-4x20mm Rifle Scope

 

 

 

 

Leupold has created an extremely versatile line of tactical riflescopes for the shooter looking to upgrade, based on its long history of producing tough, reliable riflescopes that outperform and outlast everything else.

The AR Ballistic reticle, the FireDot BDC reticle, and the FireDot SPR reticle are all available on these tactical riflescopes. Even in direct sunlight, these reticles with seven brightness settings and an easy-to-use illumination dial will get you aiming quickly.

Leupold’s Elite optical system improves light transmission, glare reduction, and sharpness. The dial adjusts the reticle in 1/10 MIL increments using high contrast adjustment marks.

If you need a reliable, accurate, and repeatable scope should consider the Mark 3HD series. MIL-based settings and reticles are included, as well as HD performance, an exposed elevation adjustment dial, and a low-profile power selector with an integrated launch lever.

Guard Ion lens coatings repel rain, dirt, and fingerprints while also protecting against scratches and abrasions. The main tube is made of aircraft-grade 6061T6 aluminum and sealed with an Argon/Krypton gas mixture to ensure waterproof, fog-free integrity.

Another great feature of the Mark 3HD riflescopes is the built-in MST (Motion Sensor Technology) illumination, which turns off after 5 minutes of inactivity to save power and extend battery life.

Features

  • Elite Optical System
  • 3:1 zoom ratio
  • 30mm main tube
  • Scratch-resistant lenses
  • High-contrast MIL adjustment markings P5 dial with 1/10th MIL adjustments
  • Multiple reticle options
  • Ergonomic power selector
  • Ultra-lightweight design
  • Guard-Ion lens coatings
  • Waterproof and fog proof
  • Made in the USA

Pros

  • Precision and accuracy in close to mid-range shots
  • Wide field of view
  • Reduced glare and amazing lowlight performance
  • Waterproof and fogproof

Cons

  • None

You May Also Like: 11 Best LPVO Scopes for AR15 /Hunting

Best Leupold Scope for AR15 Accessories

1) Scope Cover

  • Nylon-laminated neoprene material
  • Water resisiatnt
  • Available in different sizes
  • Field/ storage use

Scope cover

 

 

 

 

2) Lens Cover

  • Neodymium magnets to keep the cover closed
  • O-ring sealed
  • Round objective
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
  • Easy transition threading

Lens Cover

 

 

 

 

3) Lens Pen

Lens Pen

  • Retractable
  • Durable
  • Microfiber cleaning tip
  • Compact ergonomic design

 

 

 

 

Read Also : 6 Best Leupold Scopes for Coyote Hunting

 

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Leupold Scope for AR15

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Leupold Scope for ar15

Type of reticles

The purpose of a reticle is to provide you with a central aiming point, but there are many different types and designs to suit your needs.

There are those for low light conditions (illuminated reticles), sniper/tactical conditions (Mil-dot), hunting in thicker brush or big game hunting (duplex reticle), and long-range hunting  (Bullet Drop Compensation).

The type of reticle you choose can make the difference between well-placed shots that can make or break your hunting expedition, regardless of how attractive or good a scope is. So Choose wisely.

Type of mount

The truth is that most people are more concerned with the new riflescope they are purchasing than with the mount. The mount is in charge of keeping the scope attached to the weapon firmly and steadily.

As a result, it has an impact on rifle scope accuracy, long-range performance, eye relief, and access to the bolt. Your rifle scope setup can be made or broken by the mount you choose.

Make sure to order optic mounts and height rings for your scope that are compatible with the specific model of firearm you’re using.

Magnification

The number of times the vision of the naked eye can be magnified is known as the magnification range. If you have excessive magnification, you don’t want a small field of view.

Some people prefer fixed power scopes due to their simplicity and lack of moving parts. If you are into hunting or long-range shooting, it is highly recommended that you use a powerful scope on your rifle. This will enable you to aim more precisely at your target.

Image quality

The lens coating improves light transmission and adds scratch resistance, which has a direct impact on image quality. The optic must be able to reflect light in order to provide a clear and high-resolution image.

The larger the lens, the more light you’ll be able to capture. As a result, choose a scope with a large lens to ensure a high-quality image. Even if the rifle scope is already set to high magnification, a blurred image won’t help you hit your target.

It’ll almost certainly result in missed shots. As a result, it’s critical that you double-check that the scope you’re buying can deliver excellent image quality.

Weight

You should think about the weight of your scope before making it. Consider where you’ll be shooting the most. If you’re stalking deer in the mountains and have to do a lot of hiking in between shots, a lighter riflescope may be preferable, as constantly raising and holding a heavy rifle can be exhausting.

The AR-15 is designed to be a small, light weapon. You’ll want a scope that’s not too heavy while still providing the functionality you require.

Advantages of Leupold Scope

  • They have one of the industry’s best light management systems, resulting in bright, crisp images.
  • Their optical lenses are of the highest quality.
  • These scopes have a scratch-resistant coating on the outer lens surfaces that meets military specifications for extreme abrasion.
  • They are completely waterproof and fogproof, so they can be used in any situation.
  • Regardless of their various price points, they do not skimp on quality.

Choosing Reticles for your Leupold Scope

When it comes to reticle designs, Leupold has been a trendsetter and pioneer, and they’ve continued to improve them as the market has grown. The following are the details:

Low light reticles

Low light reticles

  • Duplex reticle

The reticle’s heavy lines draw your eye to the center, where it narrows into a fine crosshair. Low-light visibility without sacrificing pinpoint accuracy is possible thanks to this widely imitated combination.

  • Hunt-plex reticle

This reticle has twice the line thickness of the Duplex while keeping the same fine crosshair.

  • FireDot reticle

An illuminated FireDot reticle will help you see your aiming point even in the darkest environments.

Long-range hunting reticles

Long-range hunting reticles

  • B & C reticle

It’s made for big game hunters who can hit targets from 600 yards away. It starts with the Duplex design and adds simple hold-over marks for longer-range aiming. Because of its unique design, shooters can fine-tune the reticle to their load by adjusting the scope’s magnification and zero distance. For 300 and 400 yards, it even has wind holds of 10 miles per hour.

  • Wind-plex reticle

The Wind-Plex reticle has wind holds laid out in 1 MOA increments to help you compensate for crosswinds in the field. This reticle lacks elevation hash marks, creating a clutter-free sight picture that’s ideal for our Custom Dial System (CDS).

  • TMOA reticle

The TMOA reticle adds elevation holds to the Wind-Plex design for more precise shots at longer ranges. The TMOA won’t obscure your target when you’re locked on from 500 yards away thanks to its 0.5 MOA heavy lines, 0.1 MOA fine lines, and an open 0.2 MOA center.

Tactical reticles

Tactical reticles

  • FFP PR2-MOA reticle

The PR2-MOA and PR2-MIL reticles in the first focal plane are designed for long-range speed and precision.

  • FFP PR2-MIL reticle

The PR2 reticles provide functionality without the clutter that many extreme-range reticles have. Because of their first focal plane design, they can be used for precise range estimations and holdovers at any magnification level.

  • AR BALLISTIC reticle

The AR-Ballistic reticle is specialized for 223Rem/5.56NATO ammunition, and it starts with the Duplex layout and adds hash marks for bullet drop. Wind drift holds are also available at 300, 400, and 500 yards.

How To Focus Your Leupold Reticle

  • In a firm rest, secure the scope and firearm. Point the scope at a light-colored background to keep it safe.
  • If the eyepiece has a lockring, take it in your hand and turn it counterclockwise until the lock is released.
  • While pointing the scope at a light-colored background, look through it. Between focus checks, take a few steps back to relax your eye. Repeat the process of rotating the eyepiece and rechecking focus until the reticle is sharp.
  • Retighten the lockring against the eyepiece if your eyepiece has one.

What Leupold Means By Minimal Maintenance

LENSES: Light scattering and reflections are reduced by coating the lenses, allowing more light to pass through the scope. Use a lens brush and a cotton swab with pure alcohol, high-grade glass cleaner, or pure water to remove dust.

EYEPIECE ADJUSTMENT: This adjustment is permanently lubricated. It does not need to be lubricated. The eyepiece can be rotated in either direction to the maximum extent possible. It will not detach from the scope because it has an internal lock ring.

WINDAGE / ELEVATION ADJUSTMENTS: They do not require lubrication because they are always lubricated. Keep the adjustment covers on except when adjusting to keep dust and dirt out.

SEALS: For example, O-rings are used to seal the scopes from the inside. All seals are permanent and do not require maintenance.

EXTERIOR OF THE SCOPE: Leupold scopes are made of aircraft aluminum alloy 6061-T6. There is no need for upkeep; simply wipe any dirt or fingerprints away with a clean, dry cloth.

How To Trouble Shoot Your Leupold Scope

Please check the following items before returning a scope to the factory for service or repair:

  • Examine the mount. Gently twist the scope in the rings to ensure it is securely mounted to the rifle, or jiggle it to see if anything moves. Retighten the mounting system according to the mounting instructions if there is any movement.
  • Make sure your rifle’s action is properly bedded in the stock, and that all receiver screws are tight and have been tightened, as an ill-fitting stock can alter the point of impact.
  • Make sure to test-fire a rifle from a solid bench with sandbags supporting the forearm and buttstock when checking the point of impact in relation to windage and elevation adjustments.
  • Use factory-loaded ammunition with the same bullet type, weight, and, if possible, lot number. If one brand or bullet weight does not perform well, try a different brand or bullet weight.
  • Make sure the barrel and chamber are both clean. The accuracy of a firearm can be harmed by excessive factory grease or copper fouling.

How To Change A Leupold Battery

It is necessary to replace the battery if the reticle fails to illuminate or appears dim even on the highest illumination setting. A CR2032 lithium coin-cell battery is used in Leupold’s third-generation Illuminated Reticle scopes.

  • Twist the cover counterclockwise to change the battery.
  • Remove the old battery from the dial’s/center button’s position.
  • Place the new battery with the positive (+) side facing up.
  • Replace the illumination dial’s battery cover and tighten it clockwise until it is secure.

FAQs

What magnification is needed for AR-15?

The most common hunting magnification is 3-9x. Targets up to 100 yards can be hit with 3x magnification, while 600-yard targets can be hit with 9x magnification.

Can you hunt with an AR?

Yes. Because of their dependability, weight, maneuverability, reduced recoil, and ease of optics installation, they are ideal for hunting.

What does AR stand for?

The AR in the “AR-15” rifle stands for ArmaLite rifle. It was given that name after the 1950s company that created it.

Conclusion

The design of the AR 15 screams awesome ergonomics. When Eugene Stoner, the AR-15’s designer, put his first rifle together, he knew exactly what he was doing. The right optic, such as the ones we’ve looked at, will provide a much-desired edge.

So pick one of these Leupold scopes that best suits your needs and let it enhance your hunting abilities. Hopefully, our reviews made it easier for you to sort through the options and find something that meets your requirements.

Related: 5 Best LPVO Scopes for AR15