Today you will find the best Leupold scope under $500. Leupold is an award-winning optics brand that has been in the market for over a century now. With all these years in the market, Leupold has grown to be one of the most preferred brands by many hunters and shooters. They make excellent quality scopes that are practical, accurate and suitable for a host of activities.
Leupold scopes come under different price tags to meet the budget needs of different users across the globe. In this article, we have done our homework and compiled a list best Leupold scopes under $500 available on the market today. These scopes are easy on the wallet yet quality and reliable.
Let’s take a look.
1) Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
The VX-Freedom 4-12x40mm is a 1-inch tube scope that delivers excellent performance and dependability. It comes with a host of new and advanced features to guarantee that it gets the job done each time.
What makes the VX-Freedom 4-12×40 a force to be reckoned with is the outstanding long-range shooting prowess. With a reticle designed for the 6.5 Creedmoor, this scope will help you achieve your long-range shooting dreams. Surely, it’s the best Leupold scope under $500 for hunting.
Leupold built this rifle scope with hunters in mind. It offers excellent clarity from sunrise to sunset. The ultralight body optimizes mobility while dispersing recoil from high-caliber weapons for added durability. It also comes with a matte finish that helps you remain inconspicuous when hunting during broad daylight.
Another thing that makes the rifle stand out is the robust housing. Being crafted from 6061-T6 aircraft quality aluminum, it is tough enough to weather anything that comes its way. It is shockproof to take in any rough handling and you can use it to hunt under any weather as it is fully waterproof and fog-resistant.
The scope also offers a generous eye relief and has a side focus parallax adjustment knob for easy parallax correction. To top it all, all VX-Freedom 4-12x40mm scopes utilize a Twilight Light Management System which provides additional 10 minutes of shooting light in twilight settings.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- Waterproof and fog-resistant
- Variable 4-12x magnification
- Side focus parallax adjuster
- Matte finish
- 1-inch main tube
- Twilight Light Management System
Pros
- Great scope for the money
- Ample amount of eye relief
- Compact and lightweight design
- Good low light visibility
- Easy to use
Cons
- Could be better if the reticle was illuminated
2) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
When it comes to versatility, the VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is hard to beat. Hosting several impressive features, the scope delivers extraordinary performance.
Intuitive design makes the scope a front runner as the best Leupold scope under $ 500. It is built to be easy to set up and you can use it for hunting, competitive shooting, and recreational tactical shooting among other applications.
The duplex reticle is particularly resourceful in hunting as it’s easily visible even in poor lighting and permits quick acquisition of targets. Coupled with superior optics, variable power, and rugged construction, VX-Freedom 3-9×40 meets the needs of most hunters.
Featuring 3-9x variable magnification, the scope gives you the flexibility to take shots at close to long ranges. At low 3x, it provides a massive field of view that makes target location a breeze, and rapid target acquisition when you dial the zoom up to 9x. Further, the scope comes with a Custom Dial System for easy shooting.
The body of the scope is built from aluminum which offers outstanding durability, strength and rigidity without adding any unnecessary weight. To complement the robust housing, this scope has scratch-proof lenses for extra protection and it is also waterproof and fog-proof for use in any weather. Overall, it is a high-quality scope that is suitable for multiple endeavors.
Features
- Twilight Light Management System
- Versatile 3:1 zoom ratio
- Matte finish
- Second focal plane reticle
- Waterproof and fog-resistant
- 1-inch main tube
- Scratch-resistant lenses
Pros
- Robust and lightweight aluminum construction
- Generous eye relief
- Clear, quality glass
- An easy-to-use reticle
Cons
- Reticle not illuminated
3) Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope
Next up is the VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope. This scope comes with a rimfire-specific MOA reticle and a matte finish that keeps you hunting under direct sunlight while you stay inconspicuous.
Made around the advanced Leupold’s optical system, you are guaranteed outstanding optical clarity under any light settings. It offers true light transmission, reduced glare and light reflection for bright, sharp and vivid sight pictures that are rich in color accuracy. The true light transmission makes it stand out among other scopes in the price range.
All Leupold scopes are built to be used under any weather and the Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope is not an exception. It is 100% waterproof and fog proof so you can hunt and shoot confidently even when it is raining. It is also shockproof to ensure many years of reliable field performance and the exterior lenses are scratch-resistant for added protection.
Features
- Advanced optical system
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- Second focal reticle
- 2-7x variable magnification
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Matte finish
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight design
- Clear and quality glass
- Works great in diverse lighting conditions
- Great value for money
Cons
- Not zero resettable
- Doesn’t come with lens covers
4) Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope
Another best Leupold scope under $500 on this list is the VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope. This is a 1-inch tube scope that offers pinpoint accuracy when taking shots at both close and long ranges.
The scope offers unprecedented low-light performance. Featuring DiamondCoat 2 lens coatings and Xtended Twilight Lens System, it will help reveal every single detail of the targets you are shooting even in dismal environments. On top of that, it comes with blackened lens edges which deliver bright sight pictures.
Built from 6061-T6 aluminum, this riflescope offers incredible durability without being bulky. It is waterproof and fog-resistant for operability in all weather conditions and has a matte finish to reduce glare. Other noteworthy features of this rifle scope are a generous eye box, twin bias erector system, and durable lens cover.
Features
- 5-10x magnification range
- Xtended Twilight Lens System
- 1-inch main tube
- Twin bias erector system
- Blacked lens edges
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Aerospace-grade aluminum housing
- Black matte finish
Pros
- Generous eye relief
- Excellent low-light performance
- Large field of view
- Quality optics
Cons
- A few accessories included
- The design of the lens cover could be better
5) Leupold VX-Freedom 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope
The VX-Freedom 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope is the best Leupold scope under $500 for long-range shooting. Harboring an array of features only found in high-end scopes, the VX-Freedom 6-18×40 is the ultimate scope for testing the limits of your rifle. It offers superior accuracy at longer ranges and crisp clear views from dawn to dusk.
The wide 6-18x zoom power makes the scope ideal for hunting/shooting at intermediate to long ranges. Even with the ultra-wide zoom power, the scope offers quality views that are bright and clear. This is thanks to the 40mm aperture which also offers admirably low light performance while maintaining a low profile.
Leupold built this scope to withstand rugged and extreme outdoor conditions. The exterior lenses are scratch-resistant and with the waterproof and fog-proof construction, you can use the scope even in extreme weather. Also, the scope is tested to be resistant to extreme recoil, shock and impacts so you can get many years of use.
Unbeatable versatility makes the scope stand out as the best Leupold scope under $500. Exposed turrets allow the shooter to make flawless adjustments when taking long-range shots. The side focus makes the reticle clearer by eliminating parallax and quashing the perceived movements common when acquiring targets at varying distances.
Features
- 30mm body tube
- Second focal plane Tri-MOA reticle
- Aircraft-quality aluminum housing
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Matte finish
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- Ergonomic power selector
- Broad 6-18x magnification range
Pros
- Light and compact
- Extreme recoil tested
- Clear optics
- Great long-range accuracy
- Excellent fit and finish
Cons
- Fixed parallax
- Non-illuminated reticle
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Choosing the Best Leupold Scope under $500
Leupold scopes are diverse to cater to the needs of different hunters and shooters. Regardless of the intended application, the scope you chose should provide a practical optical solution to meet your needs and shooting requirements.
Moreso, the scope should be compatible with your rifle and bring the most out of the cartridge you are using. To search for the best Leupold scope for your needs consider the following factors:
Magnification
Magnification is the first thing you should take into account when shopping for the best Leupold scope under $500. Be activity-specific and determine how far you purpose to shoot. This will help you find a scope with the right magnification power.
Glass Clarity
If precision is what you are after, get a scope that offers crisp glass clarity. The images the scope generates should be consistent, clear and bright at every magnification power. This will help you determine where to place the shot more accurately.
In addition to glass clarity, consider the quality of lens coatings the scope has. Quality lens coatings will reduce glare, optimize light transmission and also protect the glass from scratches, dirt, oil stains and more.
Durability
The best Leupold scope under $500 should be durable enough to weather anything Mother Nature throws at it. Get a rifle scope built for anything and everything and benefit from relentless performance for many years.
It should also be sturdy enough to hold zero even when you are using a heavy recoiling rifle. Additionally, it will be an added advantage if you get a unit that is shockproof and impact resistant.
Weatherproof
If you plan to use the scope majorly for hunting, ensure that it is built to be operable in different environments. A good scope will have a high IP rating so you can use it under water and dust. It should also be fog proof so it is operable under rain and cloudy weather.
Weatherproofing is achieved through dry gas purging and having the O-rings of the main tube fully sealed. This helps to lock out moisture and keep the internal components working flawlessly for many years.
Weight
You should also consider how heavy the scope weighs. For both hunting and shooting, having a well-balanced scope will help you achieve the most out of your expedition. A light scope is easy to carry around, simple to set up and more accurate.
Reticle
The other important thing you should put into consideration is the reticle. Different Leupold scopes come with different reticle designs which are ideal for different applications.
For short-range shooting and in applications where quick engagement is key, a simple reticle design is most appropriate. You should also get a scope with a simple reticle pattern if you are a beginner.
On the other hand, scopes with complex reticles such as Mil-Dot and BDC are best for long-range shooting and hunting.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is another important factor that you shouldn’t overlook. A scope that offers generous eye relief will let you observe targets comfortably with or without eyeglasses. It will also help you shoot with the confidence that your eye will remain safe even with high-recoiling rifles.
Read: Best 243 Leupold Scopes
Leupold scopes vs Vortex Scope: Is Leupold Better than Vortex?
Scopes from both Leupold and Vortex brands are created uniquely to meet the unique needs of users across the globe. While both brands have excellent reputations, Leupold has a higher advantage in terms of built quality and low light performance.
On the other hand, Vortex has the advantage of having scopes that are more budget-friendly. In the long run, the brand you choose to go will with come down to personal preference and needs.
Read: Best Vortex Scopes for Deer Hunting
What Reticle is Best for Hunting?
The duplex reticle. Scopes with a duplex reticle are perfect for all-around hunting in any environment.
This reticle is not only accurate but also simple to use. It is designed to not obstruct the reticle and also stand out when you are hunting in low-light settings.
Is a Bigger Objective Lens Better?
A bigger objective lens does a better job at ensuring more light gets inside the scope. If you are shooting at long ranges, you will find this helpful.
A large objective lens also optimizes performance when hunting in low light conditions of dusk and dawn.
What Scope is Better 3×9 or 4×12?
This depends on what your purpose is to use the scope for and how far you will be shooting.
A 3-9x scope is pretty much known as the all-around scope. You can use it to hunt and shoot at various ranges and in different environments. It offers the best balance of a large field of view and optical power.
On the other hand, you will find a 4×12 scope more helpful when taking shots at extended ranges. More magnification will bring the distant targets close for accurate shooting.
Read: Best Handgun Scopes
Which Leupold Scope is Best for Deer Hunting?
Leupold has multiple scopes that are ideal for deer hunting and it is hard to say that there is a scope that fits all deer hunters.
However, the Leupold VX-5HD has grown to become the go-to Leupold scope for most deer hunters. It offers the ultimate flexibility, practicality and reliability as well.
What’s So Special About Leupold?
The special thing about Leupold is it offers high-quality and ruggedized scopes that offer exceptional low-light performance.
Leupold optics are so practical, reliable and efficient that they have grown to become the most preferred and used by hunters, shooters and even the military.
Final Shot
The best Leupold scopes under $500 will majorly depend on your preference and the activity you purpose to use them for.
All the scopes listed above offer numerous high-end features to help ensure that you turn your trip into a success once you go out to hunt or shoot.
Regardless of the scope, you end up purchasing, we do hope that this buying guide has helped point you in the right direction.