Today’s post highlights the best low light Leupold scopes. Sometimes, the best hunting happens right at dawn when light is beginning to disappear. When hunting in low lighting conditions great visibility is necessary.
Leupold scopes aren’t just the best low-light riflescope but come equipped with several features that enhance your shooting performance any time of day.
Distinguishing apart an excellent low light scope from an average one can be hard, especially for first-time buyers. Fortunately, you got us. We conducted thorough research and came up with a selection of the best low light Leupold scopes.
Before looking at our top picks, let’s highlight the core attributes of a low-light riflescope.
What Makes a Great Low Light Scope?
Dusk and dawn hunting expeditions require a riflescope with exceptional low-light performance. Low light scopes are not the same as other rifle scopes because they are engineered to optimize light-gathering ability to compensate for the dismal prevailing light.
One integral part of a low light scope is an illuminated reticle. The illumination offers the shooter a better accuracy so you will be one step ahead when hunting in low light.
The other important feature is a large objective lens. This helps increase the amount of light through the scope for brighter images. Scopes with an objective lens diameter of 40 to 56 mm offer the best compromise when it comes to light transmission and weight.
Quality lens coatings also help enhance light transmission. Riflescopes that have fully multi-coated optics are excellent candidates for low light scopes.
Quality construction is another essential attribute of a good low-light riflescope. The tube housing the optics should be made of high-quality materials that can put up with elements in the field and deliver reliable performance for many years.
The tubes should be purged with dry gases and completely sealed to deliver waterproof performance. Additionally, the scope should have a rigid construction to withstand shocks and vibrations from recoiling rifles.
5 Best Low Light Leupold Scopes
For a predator hunter, a good glass makes a huge difference. These low light Leupold scopes are built with magic hours hunting in mind. If you are seriously considering investing in a reliable low-light scope, this is the guide for you. Our top 5 eights will be a good place to start. Without further ado let’s dive in!
1) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Not only is the VX-Freedom 3-9×40 one of the best low light Leupold scopes but a highly dependable scope for those looking for an optic to make the most of the low-light conditions witnessed at dawn and dusk. This riflescope is built to deliver versatility and relentless performance.
This riflescope integrates an illuminated FireDot Tri-MOA reticle that provides an exact point of aim when focusing targets in low-light environments. The illumination is ideal even for target shooters as tracking of targets because it facilitates effortless tracking and acquisition of targets with greater speed.
The other notable feature that enhances performance when light is at its lowest in the advanced optical system. The riflescope uses lenses made of high-quality glass and is fully multi-coated to maximize light transmission.
The best-in-class glare reduction filters the light by transmitting the visible spectrum of white light for higher contrast and resolution in bright light. This helps deliver exceptional performance any time of the day.
Quality construction is the other notable feature that solidifies this scope’s name as one of the best low light Leupold scopes. Rugged construction is inherent in the Leupold brand and the VX-Freedom features an ergonomic design made of lightweight aluminum that offers unrivaled durability.
The tube is purged with gases and fully sealed to deliver weatherproof performance. The exterior of the lenses has hardened scratch-resistant coatings that keep them clear for life.
What we Like
- CDS compatible to allow turret customization to match your ammo
- Phenomenal performance
- A lockable eyepiece lets you lock in a focus setting for your eye
- 3:1 zoom ratio enhances the flexibility
- Aluminum housing for strength and durability
- Lens protected by a hardened exterior surface
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
What we Don’t Like
- Reticle lacks illumination
- Fixed parallax
- Mushy clicks
2) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Rifle Scope
The VX-5HD 3-15×44 is engineered to deliver exceptional results in any situation. A wide magnification range is the cornerstone of this rifle scope. Whether you hunt in thick timber or in the open plains where higher power is essential, this scope is highly adaptable to different situations. The versatility to conquer all coupled to Firedot illumination creates a practical solution for low light environments.
This riflescope scores highly among the best low light Leupold scopes. It integrates an advanced optical system for maximum light transmission in the toughest lighting conditions.
The optics feature glare reduction that only allows the visible spectrum of light to pass through resulting in bright images any time of day. The unbeatable color contrast and resolution give the shooter an unfair advantage in the field.
The scope is designed to deliver rock-solid performance for many years. The aircraft-grade aluminum housing is rigid for durability. To ensure reliable performance, the tube is fully sealed and purged with gasses to keep internal of the scope moisture-free. The rugged design also protects the internal components from shocks and vibrations.
When engaging targets at varying ranges, parallax may interfere with your focus. For seamless parallax removal, there is a side focus dedicated to that job.
Another notable inclusion is a custom dial that can be customized to match your ballistic and environmental conditions helping deliver sharp focus for utmost precision when you take a shot.
The turrets have a zero-lock dial that prevents accidental dials after zeroing in your rifle. Without a doubt, the VX-5HD brings to the table all the features any shooter will need to conquer in the field and is one of the best low light Leupold scopes.
What we Like
- Wide magnification range for covering different distances
- Standard optical system delivers unmatched light transmission
- Reticle illumination for faster target acquisition in low-light conditions
- Guard-ion coating protects lenses from dirt and water
- A side focus for effortless parallax correction
- Customizable elevation dial with zero-lock system
- Shockproof, waterproof and fogproof
What we Don’t Like
- Higher price but the features are worth it.
3) Leupold Mark 5HD 4-20x52mm Rifle Scope
Are you looking for a riflescope with enough horsepower to take down targets at long distances in challenging lighting situations? Look no further than the Mark 5HD 4-20×52 riflescope.
This riflescope is engineered to deliver the needed precision when taking long-range shots. Besides, being a champion of long-range shots, the riflescope handles close-range and intermittent distances with oomph.
As one of the best low light Leupold scopes, Mark 5HD 4-20×52 incorporates a state-of-the-art optical system that does an excellent job in gathering light. The outcome is bright and sharp images regardless of the prevailing lighting.
For outstanding performance in bright light, the optical system integrates a glare reduction system for clarity, resolution and color contrast.
When taking long-range shots, windage and elevation adjustments are necessary. The riflescope has reliable and repeatable adjustments to enhance long-range performance.
The turrets are easily accessible by hand and effortless to fine-tune with both audible and tactile clicks. You will be impressed by how well this riflescope tracks and return to zero after sighting in the target. This scope also holds zero well so you stay on focus when covering varying distances.
Another noteworthy characteristic of the riflescope is the custom dial system. With this system, you are in absolute control as a custom elevation adjustment dial is made to match your rifle, ballistics and hunting conditions.
This is a cool feature as it eliminates the guesswork in your shooting. The scope is available in different reticles but hunters looking for a low-light performer should settle for the illuminated FireDot duplex reticle.
Lastly, the riflescope has a robust construction that supports reliable performance and enhances the versatility of the scope. The glass used on the lenses is of exceptional quality and is protected by a hydrophobic coating that keeps it clear for life.
The riflescope is fully waterproof and fogproof thanks to argon purging and advanced O-ring sealing methods that lock out moisture. All things considered, Mark 5HD 4-20×52 is one of the best low light Leupold scopes for long-range shooting and it comes shielded by a lifetime warranty.
What we Like
- Versatile magnification range to deal with different shooting situations
- A side focus for parallax correction
- The avant-garde optical system optimizes light transmission
- Illuminated FireDot duplex reticle to outperform low lighting conditions
- A spot-on CDS compatible for tailored ballistic and rifle performance
- Easy-dial adjustment turrets
- Guard-ion lens coating to protect lenses from dirt and water
- Zero stop system inhibits accidental dials after zeroing the scope
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
What we Don’t Like
- No drawbacks
4) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56mm Rifle Scope
This is a top-tier riflescope for hunters keen on conquering the field. Whether it is hunting in thick woods or shooting distant targets in the open field, the riflescope has the power to handle all shooting scenarios.
The VX-5HD 3-15×56 has a large objective lens that enhances light transmission for outstanding low-light performance. Furthermore, reticle illumination expedites the acquisition of targets in low lighting situations.
Relentless versatility best describes this riflescope. The wide magnification range delivers the flexibility needed for different shooting situations. This scope hosts a multitude of incredible features that work harmoniously to deliver reliable performance in any weather.
An up-to-the-minute optical system help complement the large objective lens by maximizing light transmission for bright and crisp images even in poor lighting.
Like other best low light Leupold scopes, the VX-5HD 3-15×56 rifle scope has quality construction. It has a five-star rating when it comes to ruggedness and rigidity. This means the scope will deliver reliable performance in any weather. Dry gas purging and advanced O-ring sealing methods keep moisture out to prevent internal fogging.
To boost your confidence in taking long-range shots, the riflescope has two CDS turrets with a zero-lock system to prevent accidental dials after zeroing in your rifle.
These adjustment dials can be customized to match your exact ballistics and weather conditions for pinpoint accuracy. For unmatched low-light performance, the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×56 riflescope is the ideal companion for your rifle.
What we Like
- Illuminated reticle for speedy acquisition of targets in low light
- Guard-ion lens protection
- Variable power increases versatility
- Parallax removed through a side focus
- Adjustment turrets make flawless, repeatable and audible clicks
- Elevation dial is CDS compatible for a more tailored solution
- Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof
- SFP reticle ideal for low lighting hunting applications
- A motion sensor technology extends battery life by deactivating reticle illumination
- Best-in-class optics for increased light transmission
- Lightweight and rugged construction
What we Don’t Like
- The windage and elevation knobs can be refined
- Costly
5) Leupold VX-6HD 2-12x42mm Rifle Scope
This is an excellent hunting scope and features HD lenses for sharpened clarity and an illuminated reticle for outstanding performance in the most challenging conditions.
As one of the best low light Leupold scopes, the VX-6HD 2-12×42 riflescope will revolutionize your dawn and dusk hunting. The scope delivers the best results when used in close and medium-range distances. You can rely on this riflescope for an epic adventure.
The riflescope harbors impressive features to support a rock-solid performance. First up is a modern optical system that doesn’t compromise when it comes to light transmission.
Regardless of the surrounding light, the lenses allow ample light to penetrate through the tube resulting in bright and vivid images. Glare reduction maintains clarity when focusing on bright daylight.
Another facet that solidifies this scope’s name among the best low light Leupold scopes is tough construction. The riflescope is designed to deliver in all weather situations.
The tube housing the optics is purged with internal gasses and fully sealed to prevent internal fogging for reliable performance over a wide range of temperatures. The ruggedness also protects the internal components from shock and vibrations for flawless performance for many years.
Fluent and accurate adjustments are another hallmark of this riflescope. This is achieved through the turrets that make accurate and repeatable adjustments. The CDS-ZL2 system used in these turrets helps the shooter to stay focused by preventing accidental dials after zeroing in the scope.
A key addition that sets apart the VX-6HD 2-12×42 riflescope from other medium-range scopes is the reversible throw lever. This feature facilitates quick power changes which come in handy when hunting moving targets.
What we Like
- The state-of-the-art optical system optimizes light transmission
- CDS compatible for a tailored shooting solution
- Turrets allow tactile and audible clicks when focusing on targets
- An illuminated reticle expedites target acquisition in low-light situations
- Lenses are protected by a hydrophobic coating for crisp images
- An electronic reticle level that flashes when the scope isn’t level promotes long-range accuracy
- Comes with lens covers for protection against debris and other elements
- A reversible throw level allows speedy magnification changes
- Waterproof, shockproof and fogproof.
What we Don’t Like
- Lacks a side focus knob for parallax adjustment
- Expensive
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Choosing the Best Low Light Leupold Scopes
When the sun rises or sets, hunters struggle to differentiate prey from other objects. Making out the details in the magical hunting hours makes the whole difference.
What you need to tell apart objects in this light is a riflescope engineered to support low light performance. Several factors will help you tell distinguish between a low light scope from an average one. Let’s have a look:
Magnification
Power is at the heart of a low-light scope. You will need enough magnification to bring those far targets closer to distinguish between wheat and chaff. Besides, in low light, the effective shooting range is greatly diminished and so a powerful rifle scope will help cover the distance and nail the longer shots.
Leupold understands the needs of different shooters and makes riflescopes with enough power to deal with any shooting scenarios. Whether you are looking for a scope to hunt in the thick wood, in the mountains, or shooting in open fields, there is a rifle scope to meet your needs and requirements.
Most low-light shootings happen between 50 yards to 300 yards. This falls under the medium-range shooting distance. The magnification power of 3-12x will be more than enough to cover this range. In low light, the effective shooting range is greatly decreased and so there is no need of getting very powerful scopes.
Reticle Illumination
An illuminated reticle is a must-have for hunting in low-light situations. Reticle illumination not only enhances your aim when shooting in low light but also accelerates target acquisition.
In the dark, it’s difficult to see the reticle and illuminating it offers a contrast between the reticle and the target. This is very important as it lets the shooter place the reticle where they want on the target.
Quality Glass & Objective Lens Size
Unwavering light transmission is essential for brilliant low light performance. Two aspects that a low light scope should have are quality glass and a decent objective bell.
A high-quality glass transmits light optimally resulting in bright images. The best low light Leupold scopes feature a superior glass for exceptional low light performance. An excellent glass should also have a quality coating to reduce glare and increase light transmission.
When hunting/shooting in low light, bigger is better. This is because a larger objective lens will transmit more light compared to smaller counterparts. Anything larger than 40mm is considered good in gathering optimal light.
However, don’t exceed 56mm as it will weigh down on your rifle and affect accuracy. Also, you will need higher mounting rings and the added weight can be cumbersome when hunting in the mountains.
Quality Construction
In dawn and dusk hunting, harsh weather conditions are inevitable. For this reason, you will need a rifle scope engineered to withstand weather elements like rain and fog. Waterproofing is achieved through dry gas purging and having the O-rings fully sealed.
The Leupold brand is synonymous with weatherproof optics so you can rest assured that the best low light Leupold scopes are completely waterproof and fog-proof. The scope should also be built of quality materials to ensure strength and durability.
Pricing & Warranty
Low light scopes have different price tags. You will find both cheap models and expensive models. To find the best deal set a budget and work within that range.
Expensive doesn’t translate to better results as the features inexpensive may be above your skill level and you end up with a glass that is under-utilized. The best low light Leupold scopes come at different prices so you are assured to find a scope that fits your budget.
Most scopes have a lifetime warranty instilling confidence that your investment is top quality and well protected. Leupold has a reputation for excellent customer service making their optics a favorite among hunters and shooters.
To alleviate issues concerning warranties and customer service, we advise buyers to be brand-specific. Vortex Optics, Burris, Bushnell, Trijicon, NightForce Optics and Sig Sauer are other notable brands that have their optics backed by warranties.
Read: Best Rangefinder for Western Hunting
Conclusion
Hunting doesn’t always happen in perfect lighting conditions. Nocturnal animals tend to be more active in dismal lighting conditions. For ethical predation during these times, one needs a riflescope dedicated to performing well in low light.
The best low light scope should deliver clear images when the light in the surroundings starts to disappear. Moreso, have an illuminated reticle for accuracy when a shot is taken.
The best low light Leupold scopes highlighted above will help you hunt confidently at dawn or dusk. Which scope will you be taking with you to your next expedition?