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

Olsen Shooting Model 89 Takedown
Olsen Shooting Model 89 Takedown

#SundayGunday: Big Horn Armory Model 89 Take Down

There’s no denying lever-action rifles have a hold on American shooters. They have a storied history with modern application, and simply put, they are just cool. On this episode of American Hunter’s Sunday Gunday, we’re taking a closer look at a lever action rifle that adds to that appeal a big-bore 500 Smith and Wesson chambering, and the ability to be taken down into two parts for easy transport: The Model 89 500 S&W Take Down from Big Horn Armory.

Time to Apply for Pennsylvania Elk

This year, the window to apply for Pennsylvania's elk season starts on May 1 and goes to July 12.

Free Chance to Win One of 200 Suppressors

Silencer Central has launched Silencer Central’s 100 Days of Silence, a daily giveaway that will award 200 suppressors over 100 consecutive days. The campaign, which is the largest suppressor giveaway ever staged in the United States, began April 17 and runs through July 25, 2026.

Member's Hunt: Patience is Tough When You Shoot a Big Buck

My phone still in my hands, I texted my teenage son, who was hunting along the field not far away. Trying not to move any part of my body but my thumbs, I sent the message, “Got a buck down, but he’s still alive. Help!” Tucker texted back, “What do you want me to do?” I replied: “Come kill the bastard before he kills me!” Intrigued? Read on.

First Look: 2026 Spypoint Trail Camera Lineup

Spypoint's 2026 trail camera line-up features three new models designed to deliver on flexibility and control.

Hardware Review: Christensen Arms Evoke .375 H&H

A .375 H&H Magnum for less than $1,000 is a win for hunters on any continent, especially when it comes packed with features and has the sub-MOA accuracy potential of the American-made Evoke from Christensen Arms.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.