First Look: Leupold Muzzleloader-Ready 1x Freedom Red Dot Sight (RDS)

by
posted on January 15, 2025
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
LEDE Muzzleloader Freedom RDS

Leupold & Stevens, Inc. has announced the launch of its true 1x, muzzleloader-ready Freedom Red Dot Sight (RDS).

An evolution of Leupold’s award-winning Freedom RDS, the Freedom RDS Muzzleloader is purpose-built to outperform in states where muzzleloaders are limited to an optic with a 1x zoom for big-game hunts. With 1x magnification, push-button illumination, and a Custom Dial System (CDS)-compatible turret, the Freedom RDS Muzzleloader the ultimate choice for hunters facing optics restrictions on their next western hunt.

“Muzzleloader regulations have changed in several western states over the past few years,” said John Snodgrass, product line manager for Leupold & Stevens, Inc. “Utah banned magnified scopes for muzzleloader hunts. Washington made optics legal on muzzleloaders for the first time–provided they are 1x. The Freedom RDS Muzzleloader is the solution for states with magnification restrictions. It delivers true 1x optical performance, provides a clear and precise aiming point with its dot reticle, and is compatible with our CDS system, which makes it simple to adjust your elevation dial for distance.”

Leupold’s CDS system allows shooters to compensate for bullet drop and make ultra-quick elevation adjustments on the fly. Leupold will customize each Freedom RDS Muzzleloader’s elevation dial to match any load, muzzle velocity and environmental conditions. Each Freedom RDS Muzzleloader ships with a standard ¼-MOA adjustment dial, and one free CDS dial order is included with purchase. Free dials can be redeemed on Leupold.com.

The Freedom RDS Muzzleloader features a 1-MOA dot reticle that is supported by Leupold’s Motion Sensor Technology (MST), This battery-saving technology puts the sight into standby mode after five minutes of inactivity, conserving power. When motion is detected, MST instantly reactivates the sight, ensuring it's ready for action. On the RDS’s medium setting, the sight gets up to 1,000 hours of battery life. A manual mode allows the sight to shut off when not in use. With eight illumination settings, the dot remains clearly visible in both low-light conditions and bright midday sun.

The scratch-resistant lenses feature Leupold’s Professional-Grade Red Dot Optical System, promising to deliver superior light transmission for challenging conditions, glare reduction for a clear image in harsh sunlight, and high clarity and resolution. The Freedom RDS Muzzleloader features 80-MOA of adjustment in both elevation and windage. It measures under 5.5 inches and weighs less than 7 ounces. The ultra-lightweight construction disperses recoil energy, making it the toughest red-dot in its class.

Waterproof, fogproof, and guaranteed to perform for life, the Freedom RDS Muzzleloader is backed by Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee. For more information on Leupold products, visit leupold.comMSRP: $399.99

Latest

Herman Shooting Fullfield 3 12X42
Herman Shooting Fullfield 3 12X42

#SundayGunday: Burris Fullfield 3-12x42

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re checking out the Burris Fullfield 3-12x42mm. While the Fullfield line encompasses a whole range of magnifications and objective lens sizes, this one appeals as an excellent balance of features for hunters facing almost any scenario in the field. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

Restoring Hunting Rights: How a DOI Proposal Could Benefit Alaska’s Hunters

The U.S. Department of the Interior’s (DOI) has proposed restoring state-aligned hunting regulations in Alaska’s national preserves marks a significant shift toward reducing federal overreach and empowering local hunters.

AI, Robots and the Future of Conservation

Is the future filled with AI robots using facial recognition to check your hunting license? Will a cloud of “smart” drones launch on opening day? And why can’t hunters buy one of those robotic mules designed for the Marine Corps to haul big game out of a wilderness? If you've ever wondered about any of the above, check out this latest piece from our own Guy Sagi.

Turkey Tactics: Scout Now for Spring Gobblers

Want to find success this spring? Get on the ground now and start scouting for those springtime Toms.

First Look: Ameristep Wide Bottom Blind

Ameristep has launched a new, oversized hunting blind for 2026, featuring all-over Mossy Oak Bottomland camouflage. The Frontline Wide-Bottom Extreme accommodates up to three hunters along with all their gear.

Henry National Forest Foundation Rifle Series

Henry Repeating Arms has launched a new series of commemorative rifles to benefit the National Forest Foundation (NFF), the nonprofit partner of the United States Forest Service (USFS).

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.