#SundayGunday: Leupold VX-5HD Gen 2

by
posted on September 20, 2026
** 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. **

This #SundayGunday, with rifle seasons coming up across the country, we’re going to talk about an awesome rifle optic from Leupold: the VX-5HD Gen 2.

The latest in Leupold’s 5X magnification line of hunt-focused second focal plane (SFP) scopes, the Leupold VX-5HD Gen 2 takes all the best parts of its predecessor and, somehow, improves on them. The lineup currently spans six difference magnification levels and objective lens sizes—from a 1-5x24mm LPVO to a 4-20x52mm long-range monster. But we think the 3-15x44mm is about the best do-all big-game optic of the bunch. It has enough low-end magnification to make it agile at closer ranges, enough top-end to stretch across a canyon, and an objective lens that allows for a decently sized exit pupil. In short, it’s bright, clear, and exactly what a hunter needs.

Leupold on rifle

All the optics in the new VX-5HD line are built with Leupold’s Professional-Grade Optical System, complete with HD glass and exceptional lens coatings for best-in-class light transmission and glare reduction that is pretty hard to beat. The scope is waterproof and fogproof, and the exterior lenses are scratch resistant and shed water. Tubes are either 30mm or 34mm, depending on magnification level.

What sets the scope apart is Leupold’s new SpeedSet dial system which makes zeroing your scope a tool-less endeavor—simply lift the locking throw lever on the elevation dial and the cap slides right off. No Allen wrenches required.

Even better, it’s compatible with Leupold’s Custom Dial System (CDS). Simply send in your specs to Leupold, and they will provide you with a custom turret that exactly matches the markings on the cap to your rifle’s exact ballistics. All you need to do is range, dial and shoot.

CDS Dial System

And if you’re someone who constantly hunts in different environments, you can get a CDS dial to match each one, or simply return to the original Speed Set Dial. Simply swap the dials, confirm zero, and you’re ready to hunt.

And similar to its predecessors, the new SpeedSet dial incorporates a zero stop for peace of mind when bumping through rough terrain or dialing quickly back to zero.

A number of SFP reticles are available in the VX-5HD—some illuminated, some not, including favorites like the WindPlex, Firedot Duplex and Twilight Hunter. Illuminated models, which run off a CR2032 battery and feature a motion sensor to conserves battery life by shutting down illumination after five minutes of inactivity, and switching it back on the instant you move your rifle.

If you’re looking for a new optic this season, be it for your deer rifle, bear rifle or elk rifle, you should check out the new VX-5HD line from Leupold. It’s got everything you need, at a price that leaves room for ammo.

Herman Shooting VX-5HD Gen 2

For more information, visit Leupold.com. And while you're here, click the link in the upper lefthand corner to become an NRA member, and support the organization that fights for your right to keep and bear arms.

Latest

Free Recipe Collection
Free Recipe Collection

Free Recipe Collection Celebrates Hi Mountain Seasonings’ 35th Anniversary

Hi Mountain Seasonings is celebrating its 35th anniversary with a new collection of wild game recipes designed to help hunters make the most of their harvest.

President Trump Defends Hunters and Thanks the NRA

In a historic day at the White House on September 17, President Donald Trump (R) signed an executive order to protect and enhance hunters’ part in the North American Wildlife Conservation Model.

Says Me: Life is Short. Buy the Gun.

Fifty years from now the nostalgic scenes our heirs will conjure will be photos of us carrying guns supremely upgraded from the likes of Murray and his lot. Call it hunting, evolved.

37 States Now Approve FireStick for Muzzleloading Seasons

Connecticut and Indiana have joined the growing number of states recognizing Federal Premium FireStick technology for use during their 2026 muzzleloader seasons. Two others —Arizona and California—recently approved the product in their hunting regulations.

Ammo Trends: Things are Getting Smaller … Again

Is bigger always better? Or does precision triumph over all? The ammo world will likely never agree. Nonetheless, Philip Massaro takes a look at the latest downsizing trend. 

Bagging Birds: How to Hit More Doves

No one wants to be the butt of jokes from friends on the dove field. Read our tips to be the hot shooter on the field this season.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.