Long range hunting calls for more than just a flat-shooting rifle. You need a scope that’s built to handle dialing, wind, and the changing light of dawn or dusk—plus the toughness to keep up in the backcountry. If you want consistent hits at 400, 600, or even 1,000 yards, a Leupold scope delivers the clarity, precision, and dependability you need. Here are the best Leupold scopes for long range hunting, with in-depth reviews, a buyer’s guide, and tips to help you pick the right optic for your next big adventure.
Quick Picks
- Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 CDS-ZL2 — Best Overall for Most Hunters
- Leupold VX-6HD 4-24×52 CDS-ZL2 — Best Premium Long Range
- Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 — Best for Extreme Range & Precision
Buyer’s Guide: What Makes a Great Long Range Leupold Scope?
Not all “long range” scopes are equal. Here’s what to look for in a Leupold when you need to reach out far and still make every shot count:
- Magnification Range: For most long range hunts, 3-15x is versatile, 4-24x or 5-25x gives you the edge for 600+ yards. Don’t overdo zoom if you’ll also hunt thick country—field of view matters too.
- CDS-ZL (Custom Dial System ZeroLock): This feature is a game changer for hunting. Range your target, dial your custom turret, and shoot dead-on with no guesswork.
- Objective Lens: 44mm, 50mm, or even 56mm for ultimate brightness. Larger glass means better low-light performance but also more weight.
- Glass Quality: Leupold’s HD lenses and Twilight Max HD Light Management system boost clarity and brightness—critical for reading wind, seeing animals at dusk, and picking out racks at a distance.
- Turrets & Adjustments: Look for precision, repeatable clicks, zero stop, and a smooth return to zero. Side focus for parallax correction helps at distance.
- Reticle Options: TMOA, TMR, Wind-Plex, and PR1-MOA are popular for dialing or holding wind. Pick what matches your shooting style.
- Durability: Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof, and backed by Leupold’s Gold Ring Lifetime Warranty.
- Weight & Size: Heavier scopes offer more features, but lighter models are easier to pack on mountain hunts.
Full Reviews — Best Leupold Long Range Hunting Scopes
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 CDS-ZL2
Who it’s for: Big game hunters who want a do-it-all scope for shots from 50 yards to 700+ yards—lightweight enough for the mountains, powerful enough for open country.
- Key Benefits:
- 3-15x zoom—ideal for every scenario from timber to long fields
- CDS-ZL2 dial for fast, custom-range adjustments
- 44mm lens for a bright, crisp sight picture
- Twilight Max HD system for better low-light glassing
- Side focus for parallax-free shots at any distance
- Pros:
- Lightweight and compact for the performance
- Easy to use—range, dial, and shoot
- Lifetime Leupold warranty
- Cons:
- Premium price—worth it for the features
- Basic model does not include illuminated reticle
- Final Verdict: For the majority of long range hunters, the VX-5HD 3-15×44 is the perfect blend of versatility, reliability, and low-light performance. Click below for deals and specs:
See Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 Price
Leupold VX-6HD 4-24×52 CDS-ZL2
Who it’s for: Hunters who want every possible advantage for shooting 700 yards and beyond, or dialing for steep shots in open country, with the best glass and features available.
- Key Benefits:
- 4-24x zoom—find your animal at distance and dial in tight
- 52mm objective for outstanding light at dawn and dusk
- CDS-ZL2 dial, zero lock, and illuminated reticle (select models)
- Push-button illumination and motion sensor (auto-off)
- Edge-to-edge clarity and superb tracking
- Pros:
- Ultimate long range capability
- Brightest, sharpest glass in the Leupold lineup
- Easy, reliable adjustments in any weather
- Cons:
- Heavier and bigger—best for long range rigs, not ultralight rifles
- Premium investment
- Final Verdict: If you hunt western terrain, target big country, or want to stretch your limits, the VX-6HD 4-24×52 is the ultimate Leupold for long range. See price and models here:
See Leupold VX-6HD 4-24×52 Price
Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56
Who it’s for: Precision hunters, long range shooters, and those who demand match-level features for tough field use—perfect for hunting, steel, and competition.
- Key Benefits:
- 5-25x zoom for true extreme range accuracy
- Massive 56mm objective for maximum light
- Large, tactile turrets and zero stop
- Advanced reticles (TMR, PR1-MOA, and more)
- Designed for elite precision and tracking
- Pros:
- Benchmark in reliability and repeatability
- Built for harsh field conditions
- Ideal for big game, varmints, or competition
- Cons:
- Heavy—made for serious long range rigs
- Higher price, but professional grade
- Final Verdict: If you want no compromise on performance, the Mark 5HD 5-25×56 is as good as it gets for long range hunting and precision. See models and prices here:
See Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 Price
Leupold VX-3HD 6.5-20×50 CDS
Who it’s for: Hunters who want more zoom, lighter weight, and Leupold clarity for long shots at a reasonable price.
- Key Benefits:
- 6.5-20x zoom—see small targets at real distance
- 50mm lens for great low-light viewing
- CDS dial for fast ballistic adjustments
- Still lightweight enough for mountain hunts
- Pros:
- Affordable for the zoom and features
- Trusted Leupold toughness and warranty
- Excellent for antelope, mule deer, or long shots on coyotes
- Cons:
- No side focus on basic models
- Not as many advanced features as HD series
- Final Verdict: The VX-3HD 6.5-20×50 is a long-range workhorse for hunters who want more power without the weight and price of pro-grade optics. See current offers:
See Leupold VX-3HD 6.5-20×50 Price
Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12×50
Who it’s for: Long range beginners and value seekers who want Leupold glass and a big lens for a budget-friendly price.
- Key Benefits:
- 4-12x zoom for shots out to 500 yards
- 50mm objective lens for good brightness
- Simple, durable, and easy to use
- Lightweight and easy to mount
- Pros:
- Great entry point to long range hunting
- Affordable and proven reliability
- Leupold’s lifetime warranty
- Cons:
- No CDS dial on standard model
- Not as much zoom as premium scopes
- Final Verdict: For hunters on a budget, the VX-Freedom 4-12×50 gets you started with Leupold quality and plenty of glass for low light. Check prices below:
See Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12×50 Price
Comparison Table
| Name | Magnification | Objective Lens | CDS Dial | Best Use | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VX-5HD 3-15×44 | 3-15x | 44mm | Yes | All-around, 700+ yards | Check Price |
| VX-6HD 4-24×52 | 4-24x | 52mm | Yes | Premium, 1000+ yards | Check Price |
| Mark 5HD 5-25×56 | 5-25x | 56mm | Yes | Extreme long range | Check Price |
| VX-3HD 6.5-20×50 | 6.5-20x | 50mm | Yes | Affordable long shots | Check Price |
| VX-Freedom 4-12×50 | 4-12x | 50mm | No (upgrade available) | Budget, entry-level | Check Price |
FAQ — Leupold Long Range Hunting Scopes
What magnification do I need for long range hunting?
For most hunting, 3-15x or 4-16x is plenty for shots out to 600 yards. For specialty hunts or target shooting at 1,000 yards, 18x, 24x, or even 25x is an advantage.
Is the CDS dial really worth it?
Absolutely. Leupold’s CDS system lets you range, dial your custom turret, and shoot center without holdover math. It’s fast, reliable, and built for hunters, not just competitors.
Does a bigger objective lens matter?
Bigger glass (50mm or 56mm) helps in low light, but adds weight. Pick based on your hunting style—go big for open country, lighter for mountains or long hikes.
What’s the difference between VX-5HD, VX-6HD, and Mark 5HD?
VX-5HD is the best “all-purpose” scope for most hunters. VX-6HD adds more zoom, features, and glass. Mark 5HD is built for extreme long range, precision, and competition, with the highest end turrets and reticles.
Are Leupold scopes really reliable for hunting?
Yes. Every Leupold scope listed is waterproof, fogproof, shockproof, and backed by a true lifetime warranty—even if you aren’t the original owner.
Conclusion & Call to Action
If you’re ready to upgrade your long range hunting game, any of these Leupold scopes will give you the confidence, clarity, and repeatability to make every shot count. Whether you’re hunting western mule deer, elk, pronghorn, or taking on tough shots at distance, there’s a perfect Leupold here for you. Click any link above to check the latest deals, reviews, and specs, and get ready for your best long range season yet!