Leupold Introduces Freedom Red Dot Sight

by
posted on January 17, 2019
** 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. **
leupoldvx-freedomrds_lead.jpg

Leupold & Stevens, Inc. has announced the introduction of its new Freedom RDS, an innovative red-dot sight designed for the hunter seeking rugged reliability and elite performance at a budget-friendly price.

The Freedom RDS will be available in two models: One features capped precision ¼-MOA click adjustments, the other a precision exposed BDC elevation turret that ships with measurements out to 500 yards for standard 55-grain .223 Rem. ammunition. The RDS is easily installed with an included mount that sits at the optimal sight height for use on AR-style rifles. It can also be removed and mounted using any 34mm rings.

“Consumers have been asking for an American-made, value-priced red dot for as long as we’ve been in the marketplace,” said Tim Lesser, vice president of product development for Leupold & Stevens, Inc. “The Freedom RDS delivers on that task and more, bringing with it innovative features like the custom BDC elevation turret, allowing end-users to easily dial up for longer shots.”

Both models of the Freedom RDS feature a 1 MOA dot reticle that’s supported by Leupold’s battery-saving Motion Sensor Technology (MST), which puts the sight into standby mode after five minutes of inactivity. When the MST detects motion, it instantly activates the sight and is ready for use. A manual mode allows the sight to be shut off when not in use.

The scratch-resistant lenses feature Leupold’s Twilight Red Dot System, which delivers standard color consistency and premium lens clarity. The RDS is 100 percent fogproof and waterproof, and features 80-MOA of adjustment in both elevation and windage. Its 34mm maintube design measures under 5.5 inches and weighs less than 7 ounces. Its lightweight design helps increase its rugged reliability.

“The RDS features lightweight construction that disperses recoil energy and creates unrivaled durability,” said John Snodgrass, product line manager for Leupold & Stevens, Inc. “It’s been tested and verified on our Punisher, and it absolutely lives up to Leupold’s legendary standards for ruggedness. It won’t fail you, at the range or in the field.”

The Freedom RDS is scheduled to become available in spring 2019. The shelf price of the standard MOA adjustment model is expected to be under $300, and under $400 for the BDC mode. Both models are designed, machined and assembled in the United States, and are backed by Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee.

For more information on the new VX-Freedom RDS, visit leupold.com.

Latest

LEDEW H2026 06 Knowhow D2576359
LEDEW H2026 06 Knowhow D2576359

Know How: First Guns for Junior Shooters

Curious what gun to start out a junior shooter on? Bryce Towsley is a man with experience. Read on for some tips on what to get the young hunter in your life.

New for 2026: Kent Cartridge Southern Reserve Dove

Kent Cartridge introduces Southern Reserve Dove, a purpose-built load designed for fast shooting and performance in the dove fields.

#SundayGunday: Springfield Armory SA-35 4"

Springfield's SA-35 4” maintains the “wood and steel” vibes of yesteryear, with a blued finish on the gun’s carbon steel, and checkered walnut grips. Curious about this updated version of a true classic? Check out this exclusive edition of #SundayGunday.

Will Grizzly Bear Management be Returned to the States?

When the grizzly bear in the Lower 48 was given Endangered Species Act (ESA) protection as a threatened species in 1975, it was supposed to be a temporary protection that would be lifted once populations met or exceeded specific goals. Now more than a half century later and with grizzly populations that have spread and met or far surpassed the goals set in 1975.

New for 2026: Leupold LCO Pro F2 Red-Dot

Leupold & Stevens, Inc. has launched its LCO Pro F2 red-dot sight, combining optical clarity, reliability and purpose-built features in a full-sized red dot.

Member's Best 2026

I am heartened by this year’s entries. In addition to fabulous photographs, almost all of you delivered exceptional narratives of your hunts. We used your very words wherever possible because it’s an honor to see you all rise to such an occasion as sharing a special moment with your fellow hunters. You now know a little bit about what drives an outdoor writer. —J. Scott Olmsted, Editor in Chief

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.