With the wide availability of first focal plane tactical-style rifle scopes distracting our attention lately, many hunters have mounted target scopes on their deer and elk rifles, only to regret the over-large reticle at higher magnifications, the heavy build, and exposed turrets that can get knocked off plumb during a vigorous hunt.
They’d prefer a lightweight scope with capped or locking turrets and a simple reticle that can be used for quick holdover shots but with just enough elevation and windage references to be useful for longish precision shots.
With its redesigned VX-6HD Gen 2 rifle scope, Leupold has provided an appealing combination of excellent glass and coatings, precise controls, configurations for just about any hunting scenario, and the light weight and durability required for just about every big-game hunt. The new line has the added capability of serving as a worthy competition target scope.
Leupold achieved this balance by investing heavily in the internal workings of the VX-6HD, overbuilding the erector system — that’s the cams, springs, and small lenses housed inside the main tube that move the reticle — and ensuring that turret adjustments are just as precise and repeatable at 1,000 yards as they are at 100 yards.
In short, the guts of the VX-6HD Gen 2 are on par with the battle-proven erector system of Leupold’s celebrated Mark 5HD, which has become one of the winningest scopes in precision rifle competitions. Mark 5HD scopes, built around a first focal plane reticle in either MOA or MIL references, have a loyal following among long-range shooters because their turret adjustments are precise, repeatable, and move with authoritatively tactile clicks.
Designers of the VX-6HD line wanted to upgrade the family with a similarly overbuilt erector system, but retain the lighter weight, slim lines, and second focal plane reticle system of the hunting-forward VX-6HD.
It’s achieved that, but added some tasty attributes, including a tool-less locking removable turret that can be customized to the ballistics of a hunter’s specific load, two free Custom Dial System dials, and an integrated throw lever on the power-changing ring to make magnification adjustments fast and precise.
Other attributes that longtime fans of the VX-6HD line will recognize and appreciate are six-times zoom ratio, push-button illumination, a variety of Leupold’s signature reticles, and precise side focus. All Gen 2 versions of the VX-6HD feature Leupold’s Professional-Grade Optical System that maximizes light transmission and delivers unmatched glare reduction.
Inside The VX-6HD Gen 2
Most hunters will never experience the full capabilities of the VX6-HD Gen 2 internals, but for those who need to dial a distant aiming solution and who rely on very specific dope from a ballistic app or environmental sensor like a Kestrel, the new VX-6HD will guide bullets with repeatable precision. And it will do it in a relatively light 30mm tube that is designed for low-profile mounting.
Adding to the value of the VX-6HD Gen 2 is the tool-less SpeedSet Dial Technology that allows users to make fast turret changes in the field. Leupold is offering two push-to-turn CDS (Custom Dial System) elevation dials with its VX-6HD Gen 2 scope. The idea is that users can order dials for two different calibers and bullet weights, or for two different elevation-and-temperature scenarios, or for two different rifles altogether, adding to the scope’s versatility and encouraging users to invest in Leupold’s fast and precise CDS system.
The result is an excellent all-around hunting scope that has enough precision-shooting talents to thrive in long-range target competitions. It gives Leupold customers the equal and opposite choice that shooters have faced with the Mark 5HD: Do I buy a target scope that I can also use for hunting? With the new Gen 2 VX-6HD, the question is turned: Do I buy a hunting scope that I can also use for target competition?
In both cases, the obvious answer is: Yes.
The VX-6HD Gen 2 is available in 1-6×24, 2-12×42, 3-18×44, 3-18×50, 3-18×56, and 4-24×52. Reticles include the Firedot Duplex, illuminated TMOA, Boone & Crockett, and Twilight Hunter. Prices range from $1,999 to $2,699. All are designed, machined, and assembled in the U.S. and guaranteed for life.