Are you looking for the best scope for 243 Winchester? You are in the right place. Today’s post unveils the best 243 Leupold scopes to help you find a perfect optic for your hunting needs. The .243 Winchester Magnum is a medium recoil cartridge and has a huge fan base among small and medium game hunters.
Initially, it was used for varmint hunting but it has been refined to widen its hunting applications. It’s now used in hunting coyotes, wild hogs, mule deer, and other animals. In all these applications, pairing your hunting rifle with a quality scope goes a long way in enhancing the performance and effective range of this cartridge.
If you find yourself confused about what to pick for your hunting rifle, this is the guide for you. We have scavenged the market and made a top selection of the best 243 Leupold scopes. The scopes highlighted here will be excellent partners for your hunting rifle.
8 Best Leupold Scopes for 243 Winchester
Not all Leupold scopes are a good match for the .243. For that reason, you need to be careful before buying a scope. Below are the best .243 scopes:
1) Leupold Mark 3HD 4-12x40mm Riflescope
Leupold is a household name in the optics industry. The brand is always setting quality standards. If you want a scope for your .243 that will deliver no matter what, the unbeatable accuracy and rock-solid performance of the Leupold Mark 3HD 4-12x40mm Riflescope will captivate you.
As one of the best 243 Leupold scopes, Mark 3HD 4-12 rifle scope comes with an advanced optical system that delivers brilliant light transmission, reduces glare and increases resolution for performance in all lighting conditions.
It has the FireDot illuminated reticle that comes with seven settings. You can choose the setting that suits you best and acquire your target quickly, even in poor lighting situations.
Additionally, it has lightweight yet durable aluminum construction. You don’t have to worry about using it in challenging conditions, as it will remain unbowed even after being subjected to rough environments. The reliability is further supported by the waterproofing and fog proofing capabilities.
Vibrations and shocks from rifle recoil will not affect the internal components of this scope as it is shock-resistant. The triple features connote that scope is an ideal option for use in rugged conditions and bad weather.
The other notable facet that makes Mark 3HD 4-12×40 rifle scope one of the best 243 Leupold scopes is the easy-grip power selector that permits effortless power changes. To help extend the life of the battery, the scope has a motion sensor mechanism that only switches the reticle when it detects motion.
Surely, you can rely on the Mark 3 HD 4-12×40 riflescope for a thrilling outdoor adventure. Join other shooters and hunters having a blast with this scope by adding it to your hunting arsenal. Built to withstand any climatic conditions, this is an ideal scope to take your shooting experience a notch higher.
Features
- 40mm objective lens
- Variable 4-12x magnification
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Black matte finish
- Elite Optical System
- 3:1 zoom ratio
- Ergonomic power selector
- Numerous reticle choices
- FireDot Illumination
- Motion Sensor Technology
- It runs on a CR2032 battery
2) Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12x50mm Riflescope
Are you looking for a scope that will help dominate in the mid-range distance of 200 to 500 yards? Look no further than the VX-Freedom 4-12×50 riflescope. The scope packs a plethora of features that hunters and shooters desire in a rifle scope.
Top of the list is a state-of-the-art optical system that offers superior light transmission. No matter the time of day, the scope delivers bright and crisp images making it a perfect companion for dawn-to-dusk hunting escapades.
The lenses are fully multi-coated to enhance the resolution and color fidelity. This is very resourceful when hunting in thick timber or in the mountains where you need to isolate the prey from other objects before taking a shot.
The other notable feature of this scope is the Custom Dial System that allows you to customize your turrets to match your ballistics and the environmental conditions which helps eliminate guesswork giving you an unfair advantage while in the field. The scope also has a traditional eyepiece lock ring. Its primary function is to enable you to lock in a focus setting that is best for your eye.
To meet military standards for scratch resistance, a hardened surface coating is added to the lenses for added protection. You can rest assured that your lenses will stay clear for life.
Magnification can be changed without any hassle using the easy-to-grip power selector. If you intend to shoot for a long time, you don’t have to worry about the battery running out. Motion Sensor Technology prolongs the battery life.
Regarding durable construction, the scope isn’t left behind. It is made of 6061-T6 aluminum which is robust and will give you long-lasting use. It is waterproof and fogproof.
This implies that it will get the job done even in bad weather. Being shockproof as well, it resists impact and recoil. A 30mm main tube increases adjustment for longer shots.
Unbeatable versatility is another attribute that makes VX-Freedom 4-12x 50 one of the best 243 Leupold scopes. The wide 4-12x magnification range makes it suitable for diverse shooting scenarios. Whether you take your hunt to the mountains or the plains, with this scope you will be able to bring down the targets boldly.
Features
- MOA adjustment system
- Black matte finish
- 3:1 zoom ratio
- Fast-focus locking eyepiece
- Lenses are scratch-resistant
- Advanced Optical System
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- FireDot Illumination
- Ergonomic power selector
- Lightweight structure
- Made of high-quality materials
- Motion Sensor Technology
- 30mm main tube
3) Leupold VX-6HD 4-24x52mm Riflescope
This is one of the best 243 Leupold scopes for long-range shooting. If you are eager to stretch the limits of your rifle, the Leupold VX-6HD 4-24x52mm Riflescope will help you cover longer distances boldly. This rifle scope is built for anything, its wide magnification range confers unbeatable versatility making it an all-around .243 scope.
When it comes to light-gathering capability, this riflescope transmits light amicably resulting in bright and sharp images. Having the flexibility to conquer in every hunting situation even when the surrounding light isn’t favorable is the ultimate goal for any hunter.
True to that statement, this scope delivers exceptional performance from dawn to dusk. The illuminated reticle helps maintain sharp focus in a dismal light. For outstanding long-range performance, the scope has a large objective lens to provide a large field of view when you crank up to maximum power.
Windage and elevation adjustments are important in long-range shooting and the scope is fitted with easy-grip turrets that make the necessary adjustments flawlessly. Zero Lock windage adjustment deters unintended changes while always guaranteeing an accurate return to zero.
The scope has a unique combination of features and durability that makes it endure any challenge thrown at it. It is entirely waterproof and fog proof for reliable performance in any kind of weather. Because you have no idea what the weather may be like when out in the field, you can have confidence that it will perform well even in harsh weather.
Features
- Matte finish
- Variable 4-24x magnification
- Professional-Grade Optical System
- It runs on a CR2032 battery
- 52mm objective lens
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- ZeroLock windage adjustment
- 34mm main tube
- Prolonged battery life
- Guard-Ion coating
- Motion Sensor Technology
- 6:1 zoom ratio for unrivaled reliability
4) Leupold VX-Freedom CDS 3-9x50mm Riflescope
Combining simplicity and accuracy, the Leupold VX-Freedom CDS 3-9×50 has earned the utmost respect from varmint and big game hunters. The riflescope brings to the table an outstanding optical performance and unparalleled ruggedness that make every hunt one of a kind.
Versatility makes it score high as one of the best 243 Leupold scopes. The 3-9X magnification range is adequate nailing nearby targets and covering far distances with prowess. This great compromise will handle nearly any task you throw at it.
It is equipped with a Custom Dial System that offers a customizable ballistics solution. When it comes to optics, the scope features a top-notch optical system that ensures maximum light transmission resulting in bright and crystal-clear images.
Buying this scope means you get a top-tier with an unbeatable precision scope at a fraction of the cost. A hardened surface coating is added to the lenses to keep them clear for life.
Like other 243 Leupold scopes, VX-Freedom 3-9×50 has triple features of waterproof, fogproof and shockproof capabilities. Regardless of the weather conditions, the scope will not disappoint.
Features
- A military-grade scratch-resistant lens coating
- Advanced Optical System for optimal light transmission
- Twilight Light Management System
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Made of highly durable aircraft-grade aluminum
- 3:1 zoom ratio
- Variable 3-9x magnification is ideal for most hunting activities
- 50mm objective lens
- Black matte finish
5) Leupold Mark 3HD 6-18x50mm Riflescope
You can never go wrong with the Leupold Mark 3HD 6-18x50mm Riflescope. It comes equipped with Elite Optical System that delivers brilliant light transmission, clarity and resolution while at the same time reducing glare. The Mark HD also has an exposed elevation turret that allows fast adjustments giving you a competitive tactical edge.
For reliability, Mark 3HD 6-18×50 is built with quality materials. The tube is purged with dry gases and its O-rings are completely sealed to prevent internal fogging.
The tube is extremely tough and will shake off any rifle recoil maintaining the integrity of the internal components for many years of service. Like with other 243 Leupold scopes, durability is synonymous with this rifle scope.
Features
- 30mm main tube
- Made of highly durable aluminum
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof performance
- Easy to make magnification adjustments
- Ultra-lightweight construction
- Motion Sensor Technology prolongs battery life
- Black matte finish
- Second Focal Plane reticle
- Elite Optical System
- 3:1 zoom ratio
- Lenses are scratch-resistant
- Side Focus adjustment for parallax removal
6) Leupold VX-Freedom 6-18x40mm Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom 6-18x40mm Riflescope is designed with the Twilight Light Management System that enhances light transmission resulting in clear views even in poor lighting conditions. The scope has a tough construction that will endure rough terrain and conditions and remain brand new for many years.
Unbeatable reliability makes it score highly as one of the best 243 Leupold scopes. The tube housing is purged with dry gases and completely sealed to lock out moisture for fog-proof performance.
Waterproofing capabilities ensure dependable performance in several climatic conditions. This means that even when weather conditions become unfriendly, you don’t have to worry about the scope letting you down. It will remain unbowed and get the job done.
Versatility is another stronghold of this riflescope. If you would like to stretch the limits of your rifle, this scope will be perfect for the job. The wide 6-18x magnification range is perfect for shooting in different situations. The wide 40mm objective lens provides a wide field of view so that you can see your target even at higher powers.
Thanks to the ergonomic power selector, you can make magnification changes without any hassle. It is made with premium quality lenses that are standard of those used by the military. The scratch-resistant coating will keep the lenses clear for life and the hydrophobic layer protects them from oil, dirt, and other debris.
Features
- Ergonomic power selector
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- Twilight Light Management system
- 44mm objective lens
- 3-18x magnification range
- Made of robust aluminum
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Black matte finish
- It runs on a CR2032 battery
7) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56mm Riflescope
Next up is the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56mm Riflescope. The scope will do it all regardless of where you are shooting at. Whether it is the mountains, the plains, or range days, the scope will get the job done.
One feature that you will love is the state-of-the-art optical system that delivers superior light transmission for unmatched clarity and performance in low light conditions.
Its 3-15x magnification gives you the flexibility you need to shoot at different ranges. The massive 56mm objective lens is very resourceful in dawn and dusk hunting as it amplifies the amount of light passing through the tube for brighter and sharp images. Besides, the reticle is illuminated for utmost precision in low light conditions.
For flawless performance in any terrain and all weather conditions, the scope is engineered with military-grade standards. The tube is crafted from high-quality aluminum for strength and rigidity.
The sealing methods and internal gas purging lock out moisture for weatherproof performance. Rest assured that this scope will withstand vibrations and shocks when paired with powerful ammo.
As one of the best 243 Leupold scopes, VX 5HD 3-15×56 is rich in features that enhance performance. The fast-focus eyepiece facilitates speedy and effortless focusing of the reticle.
A side focus knob helps to remove parallax to improve your focus, especially when aiming at distant targets. Turrets for windage and elevation can be locked to prevent accidental dials so you hold on zero after sighting in the scope.
Features
- Side Focus for parallax removal
- An ultra-lightweight design ideal for hunting expeditions
- 5:1 zoom ratio helps you cover several ranges boldly
- 56mm objective lens optimizes light transmission
- A wide 3-15x magnification for unrivaled versatility
- Fast focus eyepiece allows seamless focusing of the reticle
- CDS Custom Dial System for a tailored shooting solution
- Guard-Ion Lens costing to keep lenses clear for the life
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Made if high-quality aluminum
8) Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x50mm Riflescope
We saved the best for the last. VX-6HD 3-18×50 is one do-it-all riflescope that delivers the horsepower to dominate in all shooting scenarios. Whether your hunt is in the thick woods or the open plains, this riflescope delivers enough power to conquer all scenarios.
At the heart of this scope’s extraordinary performance is an advanced optical system. This system transmits light maximumly delivering bright and crisp images in all lighting conditions.
The large objective lens comes in handy by increasing the light gathering capability of the scope. This is very helpful in dawn and dusk hunting when surrounding light is unfavorable.
The scope also has an illuminated reticle for quick target acquisition in poor lighting. The illuminated reticle has several brightness settings to match different conditions.
Another key inclusion in the electronic reticle level is that warns the shooter when the scope isn’t level. This comes in handy when taking long-range shots and makes the mounting process very easy.
The tube housing the optics is of extraordinary strength. It is crafted from aluminum making it rigid and durable. For rugged performance, the tube is purged with dry gasses and fully sealed to lock out moisture.
The scope undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it withstands any punishment geared towards it. Shocks and vibrations will not affect this scope an inch.
A plethora of performance-enhancing features makes VX-6HD 3-18×50 one of the best 243 Leupold scopes. A reversible throw lever facilitates quick magnification changes, lockage windage and elevation dials help improve your accuracy when taking distant shots and a side focus corrects for parallax for sharp focus.
Features
- 6:1 zoom ratio accommodates several shooting scenarios
- Twilight Max Light Management System
- Variable 3-18x magnification
- 50mm objective lens
- Made of aircraft-grade aluminum
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof performance
- Long eye relief and generous eye box
- The lenses have a Guard-ion lens coating that sheds water and dirt
- Motion Sensor Technology
- Enables fast magnification changes
- Side focus parallax adjustment
- ZeroLock windage adjustment prevents accidental adjustments.
- Guard-ion coating on the lenses
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Choosing the Best 243 Leupold Scopes
Magnification
Take a look at the scope’s magnification range that you intend to buy. It should help you see the view target. For example, a scope with a 4x magnification range brings the target four times closer than the usual image. So, if your target is a deer that is 50 meters away, you can see it at 12.5 meters closer when looking through a scope.
Before buying a Leupold scope for your .243, first, determine the place you are hunting and the target intended. A scope with low magnification is ideal for a close-range target. A scope with a 1x to 4x magnification would be perfect. If you are shooting at long-range, get a scope with at least 3-9x magnification.
Objective Lens
The objective lens quality is crucial for providing light transmission to the scope. Most objective lenses have 30mm to 50mm of glass that lets you get clear views of the target.
A lens with multiple coatings or anti-reflective glass reduces glare and delivers high-quality images. It permits you to view your target and hit it accurately. Lenses with multiple coatings are essential for the best hunting experience.
Construction
A scope’s construction tells you whether it will last long or not. You have to check out the materials used for the scope’s body or its main tube. The most common materials used for durable scopes are aluminum or aircraft-grade aluminum. The materials have proven to last long in the shooting grounds.
What is more, the scope needs to be waterproof and fogproof. It should nonetheless be shockproof. It is pertinent to consider the construction of the scope you plan to buy to ensure it will last long. This is even when used frequently and in harsh conditions.
Focal Plane and Reticle
The main choices of the reticle to choose from are illuminated and non-illuminated reticles. If you love shooting and hunting during the day, the non-illuminated reticle is your best choice.
On the other hand, the illuminated reticle is perfect if you hunt and shoot at night. You will have a clearer look at your targets in low light conditions with it.
Where the focal plane is located is also an important consideration. If placed on the first focal plane, you will have a reticle size that gets bigger once you zoom in on the magnification. The reticle doesn’t change with a second focal plane, even when magnification power changes.
Read: Best Vortex AR-15 Scopes
What Magnification Do You Need?
A scope with the appropriate magnification is essential to hit the target accurately. A scope with correct locking will help you shoot targets at short range if you don’t require any challenging yardage.
For long-range distances, which is about 350 yards and above, a magnification of 9x and above is the ideal choice. It can help you view your target with accuracy and precision.
At medium range, between 100 yards to 350 yards, you are more comfortable when using the .243 riflescope. A scope with a 5x-9x magnification will suffice. At close-range distances below 150 yards, you have to go for a scope with a 1x to 4x magnification range. It is adequate to hit your target accurately.
Read: Best Rangefinder for Western Hunting
Best 243 Leupold Scopes FAQs
Q: What Makes a Good Scope for a .243 shooting at 300 Yards?
Shooting at 300 yards is further than what is suitable for beginners. However, there are times when longer shots are necessary. Typically, it would help if you went for multi-coted lenses, a magnification of at least 4x and an objective lens of about 32mm.
These are some specifications to look out for to have a clear image. Also, keep in mind that shooting at long distances needs more clarity and higher power. Therefore, pay attention to the quality of the scope for .243.
Q: Is .243 Good for Deer?
The .243 is light, small and suitable for novice deer hunters. Big game hunters in the western states also use this rifle round when hunting mule deer and bears. It is also one of all rifle rounds at ranges below 200 yards.
Q: What Does MOA Stand for in Optics?
The dot in red dot optics is measured in MOA, which connotes minutes of angle. This is a unit for the angular measurement of a circle. It refers to the size of the dot and how much it covers a particular distance. A smaller red dot covers less of the target than a larger one.
Conclusion
One of the brands dedicated to manufacturing scopes for .243 is Leupold. 243 Leupold scopes are made of incredible glass and don’t disappoint when it comes to getting the job done. With a plethora of Leupold scopes out there, choosing the best scope for 243 is easier said than done.
Each scope varies in terms of reticle, magnification, length, objective lens diameter, lenses and many other features. Frankly speaking for a new buyer, all this information will be overwhelming.
From this guide, we hope you will find a Leupold scope that is perfect for your .243 Win hunting rifle. All of them are excellent choices and are the best on the market today. They have it all in terms of optics, quality, and a great price. Unleash the full potential of your rifle with a quality Leupold scope today.