By Joel Mccartan, NightVisionGears.com
As an avid hunter and someone who lives and breathes gear, I’ve always kept a close eye on Leupold. Their optics are legendary, and the VX-5HD has long been a favorite among serious hunters. But let me tell you — the new Leupold VX-5HD Gen2 is a serious game changer.
If you’re on the hunt (pun intended) for a rifle scope that balances top-tier performance, innovative customization, and rugged reliability without jumping all the way to the $2,500 range, you’re going to want to give this one a hard look.
What’s New with the Gen2?
Leupold didn’t just tweak the VX-5HD for Gen2 — they reimagined it with real hunters in mind. You’re looking at:
- Tool-less Custom Dial System (CDS-SZL2) — tailor your turret to your load and conditions
- More internal elevation/windage travel — 85 MOA compared to the previous 75
- Competition-grade turrets — smooth, audible, and dead-accurate
- Better coatings — for glare reduction and scratch resistance
This is the kind of gear upgrade that doesn’t just feel like a new version — it feels like a new class of scope.
My Hands-On Experience
I’ve been testing the 3-15x44mm VX-5HD Gen2 on two very different platforms:
- Remington .22 Rimfire – For closer-range plinking and accuracy tests
- Browning 6.8 Western – For big game and long-range dialing
Here’s where the custom turret shines. I had Leupold make a CDS-SZL2 turret dialed to a .22 rimfire load with a 25-yard zero. I also got one for my 6.8 Western with a 200-yard zero.
The results?
- With the .22: it was about 5″ off at 100 yards, and 17″ off at 200 (rimfire data is harder to nail exactly)
- With the 6.8: steel hits out to 700 yards. Dead on.
That’s the difference when you give the turret good ballistic input. And the best part? Swapping dials is tool-free and effortless.
Choose the Right Model for You
The VX-5HD Gen2 lineup comes in six configurations:
- 1-5×24
- 2-10×42
- 3-15×44 (my pick)
- 3-15×50
- 3-15×56
- 4-20×52 (34mm tube)
Each one is built on a 30mm tube (except the 4-20×52), and all come with second-plane reticles that are simple, sharp, and practical:
- Duplex
- Illuminated FireDot Duplex
- TMOA
- Wind-Plex
- Illuminated FireDot Twilight Hunter
- HTMR
Prices range from $1,399 to $1,999, depending on the configuration and features.
Why It Matters for Real-World Hunting
Let’s face it — most of us aren’t on the PRS circuit. We’re hunting in unpredictable conditions: fast shots, varying wind, steep angles. That’s where this scope’s strengths shine:
- Bright, edge-to-edge clarity
- Smooth zoom and focus
- Lightweight (only 19.9 oz)
- Rugged build — fogproof, waterproof, shockproof
Plus, with Leupold’s lifetime guarantee, this could be the last scope you buy for years.
What I’d Pair It With (Must-Have Gear for the Hunt)
While you’re upgrading, here are my field-tested essentials:
- Vortex Precision Matched Rings – Rock solid mounting
- These Vortex Precision Matched Rings position the center of the riflescope tube at a height of 0.97 inches (24.64 mm) from the base. Will only work with Picatinny spec mounts—will not work with Weaver mounts.
- Our Precision Matched Rings are kept in pairs throughout the manufacturing process — ensuring perfection from one set to another.
- Leupold Alumina Flip Covers – Protect your investment
- Compatible with 36mm scope eyepieces by Leupold
- Designed for VX-5HD, VX-6, VX-6HD and Mark 5HD riflescopes
- Hornady Ballistic App – Perfect for dialing custom turret
- Night Vision Clip-On (if hunting at night) – Pairs seamlessly with VX scopes
Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. The Leupold VX-5HD Gen2 isn’t just a new model—it’s a new standard. Whether you’re hunting big game out West, stalking whitetail in dense timber, or just want the best all-around optic in your safe, this scope hits the sweet spot between elite performance and practical affordability.
The custom turrets, high-end glass, and thoughtful upgrades make it one of the most versatile hunting scopes on the market in 2025.
“This is what I’d recommend to any hunter who wants one do-it-all scope they can trust when it matters.” – Joel Mccartan
See the best prices on VX-5HD Gen2 scopes here :
- Model #175834 – VX-5HD 3-15×56 Riflescope with an Illuminated FireDot 4 Reticle, CDS-ZL2 and a Matte finish
- The CDS-ZL2 (ZeroLock 2) provides two revolutions of elevation adjustment while eliminating accidental dial movement with the push-button ZeroLock system. It also features Leupold’s award-winning Custom Dial System (CDS), which allows shooters to order a laser-marked bullet-drop dial to match their exact ballistics and conditions.
Need help choosing the right scope for your rifle and hunting style? Drop me a message on NightVisionGears.com or hit us up on social.
Happy Hunting!