Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope: Unlocking Precision and Clarity in the Field

Are you a dedicated hunter seeking a reliable, high-performance rifle scope that won't let you down when it matters most? Perhaps you're a target shooter looking for a versatile optic capable of precise adjustments and exceptional clarity across a variety of distances. If you're wondering, "What is the best all-around rifle scope for hunting and mid-range shooting?" or "How can I improve my shot placement in varying conditions?", the Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm with a Duplex reticle is engineered to answer these questions with superior performance and unwavering dependability.

This premium optic, the Leupold VX-3HD CDS-ZL Matte Black 3.5-10x40mm 1" Tube Duplex Reticle (MPN: 180617), represents the pinnacle of American-made optical excellence. It’s designed for those who demand legendary performance in an incredibly tough, yet lightweight package. Whether you're tracking game through dense timber, engaging targets at the shooting range, or preparing for that crucial shot during deer season, the VX-3HD offers the clarity, durability, and precision you need to succeed.

Engineered for Excellence: Core Features and Benefits

The Leupold VX-3HD series is built on decades of optical innovation, focusing on delivering a rugged, lightweight, and incredibly clear sight picture. Let's delve into the specific features that make this 3.5-10x40mm model a top choice for serious shooters:

Custom Dial System (CDS-ZL): Mastering Elevation with Ease

One of the standout features of this Leupold VX-3HD is its Custom Dial System ZeroLock (CDS-ZL). For many shooters, accurately adjusting for bullet drop at different ranges can be a complex and time-consuming process involving ballistic calculators and multiple clicks. The CDS-ZL system revolutionizes this.

• Simplified Ballistics: The CDS-ZL allows Leupold to create a custom elevation dial precisely matched to your specific rifle and ammunition ballistics. Instead of counting clicks, you simply range your target, dial the turret to that yardage, and hold dead on. This dramatically reduces the margin for error and speeds up target acquisition.
• ZeroLock Feature: The "ZL" in CDS-ZL signifies the ZeroLock dial. This patented feature ensures your dial returns to a perfect zero every time and locks it in place, preventing accidental adjustments in the field. This is critical for maintaining confidence in your zero, especially when navigating challenging terrain or quickly transitioning between shooting positions. No more worrying about bumping your turret off zero when moving through brush or transporting your rifle.
• Repeatable Precision: The tactile and audible clicks of the CDS-ZL turret provide immediate feedback, ensuring precise and repeatable adjustments. This system empowers shooters to take ethical, accurate shots at varying distances without complex holdovers, making it ideal for dynamic hunting scenarios where every second counts.

Unparalleled Clarity: Edge-to-Edge Image Quality

The clarity and brightness of a scope's optics are paramount, especially during low-light conditions like dawn or dusk when game is most active. The Leupold VX-3HD excels here, boasting a suite of advanced optical systems:

• Elite Optical System: This system delivers the light transmission, glare reduction, and resolution that serious hunters and shooters demand. It ensures a bright, crisp, and clear image across the entire magnification range. Whether you're peering into shadowed canyons or across sun-drenched fields, the view remains sharp and vibrant.
• Scratch-Resistant Lenses: Leupold understands that optics used in the field face harsh conditions. The exterior lenses are treated with Guard-Ion lens coatings, an ion-assist lens coating that is incredibly scratch-resistant. This protective layer not only repels dirt, water, and fingerprints but also ensures that your view remains unobstructed and pristine, extending the lifespan and performance of your scope. This means less time cleaning and more time focusing on your shot.
• 40mm Objective Lens: The 40mm objective lens strikes an excellent balance, providing ample light-gathering capabilities for bright images, even in dim conditions, while maintaining a relatively compact and lightweight profile. This size is ideal for versatility, fitting well on a wide range of rifles without being overly bulky.

The Classic Duplex Reticle: Simplicity Meets Effectiveness

The VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm features the time-tested Duplex reticle, a favorite among hunters and shooters for its clean, uncluttered design and rapid target acquisition capabilities.

• Fast Acquisition: The thick outer posts quickly draw your eye to the center, while the fine crosshairs allow for precise aim on smaller targets. This design is exceptionally intuitive, making it easy to use even under pressure.
• Versatile Performance: While simple, the Duplex reticle is highly effective across the 3.5-10x magnification range. It performs admirably for close-range snap shots at 3.5x and provides sufficient precision for mid-range engagements at 10x. It's an excellent choice for hunting applications where speed and clarity are prioritized.
• Second Focal Plane (SFP) Design: As a Second Focal Plane reticle, the Duplex's size remains constant regardless of the magnification setting. This means that while the apparent size of the target changes with zoom, the reticle itself always appears the same size in your view, offering consistent aiming points.

Robust Construction for Unyielding Performance

Durability is a hallmark of Leupold scopes, and the VX-3HD is no exception. It’s built to withstand the harshest environments and maintain its integrity shot after shot.

• Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Housing: The scope is constructed from aerospace-grade 6061-T6 aluminum, ensuring incredible strength without excessive weight. This material provides exceptional resistance to impact, recoil, and environmental stresses.
• Waterproof and Fogproof: Leupold’s proprietary gas blend and sealing methods guarantee 100% waterproof and fogproof performance. This means the internal optics remain crystal clear and free from moisture, even in torrential rain, heavy snow, or rapid temperature changes. You can trust your scope to perform flawlessly, no matter the weather.
• Punisher Approved: Every Leupold scope undergoes rigorous testing, including the "Punisher" test – a machine that simulates 5,000 impacts, each with 3x the force of a .308 rifle's recoil. This extreme testing ensures that the VX-3HD will hold zero and perform reliably under the most demanding conditions in the real world.
• Lockable Eyepiece: The lockable eyepiece provides an additional layer of security, ensuring your diopter setting for reticle focus remains consistent. Once set for your eye, simply lock it down, and you won't accidentally shift it during handling.

Ergonomics and User Experience

Beyond the optical and mechanical prowess, the Leupold VX-3HD is designed with the user in mind, enhancing the overall shooting experience.

• Reversible Throw Lever: The included reversible throw lever attaches to the magnification ring, allowing for quick, effortless adjustments to your power setting. This is particularly useful when you need to rapidly transition from a wide field of view to a magnified shot, or vice versa. Being reversible, it can be positioned to suit left- or right-handed shooters.
• 1-Inch Main Tube: The 1-inch main tube is a classic standard that offers wide compatibility with a vast array of mounting rings and bases. This popular diameter contributes to the scope's overall lightweight design and provides a sleek profile on your rifle.
• Generous Eye Relief: Leupold scopes are renowned for their generous eye relief, and the VX-3HD is no different. This crucial feature provides a comfortable viewing experience and, more importantly, keeps your brow safe from recoil, especially when using high-powered rifles.

Who is the Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm For?

This scope is an ideal choice for a diverse range of shooters and hunters due to its versatile magnification range and robust feature set:

• The Big Game Hunter: If you're pursuing deer, elk, or other large game in varied terrain, the 3.5-10x magnification is perfect. The low end provides a wide field of view for quick target acquisition in dense cover, while the 10x top end offers ample magnification for precise shots at typical hunting distances. The CDS-ZL system is a game-changer for ethical shot placement in the field.
• The Varmint Hunter: For varmints like coyotes or prairie dogs at moderate ranges, the clarity and precision of the VX-3HD allow for accurate pest control.
• The All-Around Rifleman: If you own a single rifle that you use for hunting, target practice, and general shooting, this scope provides exceptional versatility without compromise. Its durable construction means it can handle regular use.
• Shooters Prioritizing Simplicity and Reliability: For those who appreciate a clean reticle, straightforward adjustments, and a scope that simply works every time, the Duplex reticle and the robust Leupold build are perfect.
• Those Seeking a Lightweight Setup: At just 13.50 ounces, this scope won't add unnecessary bulk to your rifle, making it easy to carry on long hunts or in situations where weight is a critical factor.

Real-World Scenarios Where the VX-3HD Excels:

• Deer Hunting in Mixed Terrain: Imagine spotting a buck at 250 yards. With the CDS-ZL, you quickly dial 2.5 on your custom turret, aim dead-on, and make a clean shot. Later, a coyote pops up at 75 yards, and the 3.5x magnification with the fast Duplex reticle allows for an immediate, accurate response.
• Training and Practice at the Range: Setting up targets at 100, 200, and 300 yards. The CDS-ZL allows you to seamlessly transition between distances by simply dialing the appropriate yardage, rather than calculating holdovers or complex click adjustments. This builds confidence and consistency.
• Backpacking and Mountain Hunting: The lightweight and durable design means you can trek for miles without your gear weighing you down, all while knowing your optics are rugged enough to endure the journey.
• Adverse Weather Conditions: Hunting in a sudden downpour or freezing fog? The waterproof and fogproof performance ensures your sight picture remains clear, giving you an advantage when others might pack up.

Why Choose Leupold? A Legacy of Trust and Performance

When investing in a rifle scope, the brand behind the product matters. Leupold, an American company with a long-standing heritage of optical innovation, stands as a beacon of quality and reliability in the optics industry.

• American Made Excellence: Leupold designs, machines, and assembles its optics in Beaverton, Oregon, U.S.A. This commitment to domestic manufacturing ensures stringent quality control and supports American jobs.
• Lifetime Guarantee: Leupold offers a legendary Lifetime Guarantee. If your Leupold product ever fails to perform, they will repair or replace it free of charge, whether you're the original owner or not. This unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction speaks volumes about their confidence in their products.
• Proven Performance: Leupold optics are trusted by professional guides, competitive shooters, military personnel, and countless hunters worldwide. Their products consistently perform in the most demanding environments, a testament to their superior engineering and construction.

The Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm is more than just a rifle scope; it's a precision instrument designed to enhance your shooting capabilities and withstand the rigors of the outdoors. Its blend of advanced optical systems, the innovative CDS-ZL, and battle-proven durability makes it an invaluable asset for anyone serious about their shooting or hunting pursuits. Available from trusted retailers like DEGuns, this scope is ready to elevate your performance in the field or at the range.

Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Scope Specifications

The following table provides a detailed overview of the Leupold VX-3HD (MPN: 180617), summarizing its key attributes and performance metrics.

Feature	Specification	Detail/Benefit
Model Series	Leupold VX-3HD	Renowned for ruggedness, clarity, and innovation
Magnification	3.5-10x Variable	Versatile for close to mid-range shooting scenarios
Objective Lens	40mm	Excellent light gathering for varied conditions
Tube Diameter	1"	Classic, lightweight mounting compatibility
Reticle	Duplex	Simple, fast, and effective for target acquisition
Focal Plane	Second (SFP)	Reticle size remains constant across zoom range
Elevation Adjustment	55 MOA Click	Ample adjustment for diverse shooting distances
Windage Adjustment	55 MOA Click	Precise, repeatable horizontal adjustments
Adjustment Size	.25 MOA Per Click	Fine-tuned precision for accurate zeroing
Parallax Setting	Fixed at 150 yards	Optimized for most common hunting distances
Field of View	29-11 ft @ 100 yds	Wide view at low power, precise at high power
Exit Pupil	4.40 - 3.60mm	Bright image even in challenging light conditions
Weight	13.50 oz	Lightweight for easy carry and handling
Length	12.70"	Compact design for various rifle platforms
Material	Aircraft-Grade Aluminum	Unmatched durability and resilience
Finish	Matte Black	Non-reflective, tactical, and rugged aesthetic
Firearm Type	Rifle	Designed specifically for rifle applications
Special Features	CDS-ZL (Custom Dial System ZeroLock), Scratch-Resistant Lenses, Lockable Eyepiece, Reversible Throw Lever	Enhance precision, durability, and user experience
Brand	Leupold	Trusted American optics manufacturer
UPC	030317028350	Universal Product Code
MPN	180617	Manufacturer Part Number
SKU	131096	Stock Keeping Unit at DEGuns