Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade Review

My first impression of Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade

As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless scope accessories come and go, many promising the world and delivering little. The Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade is designed to shield the objective lens from glare and rain, fitting select Leupold VX-series scopes with 42mm objectives. This simple accessory can drastically improve visibility and reduce eye strain in harsh lighting conditions.

I decided to pick up the Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade after a particularly frustrating elk hunting trip in the Montana backcountry. The setting sun glaring off the snow made target acquisition nearly impossible, costing me valuable time and a clean shot. I needed a reliable solution to combat glare, and I knew that Leupold had a solid reputation for quality.

Upon receiving the sunshade, my initial impression was positive. The aluminum construction felt sturdy, and the matte black finish matched my VX-5HD perfectly. Its lightweight design was a welcome surprise; I didn’t want to add unnecessary bulk to my already heavy rifle setup. This seemed a more robust option than the flimsy, universal sunshades I’d seen at local shops.

Compared to the generic alternatives and even some higher-end sunshades with questionable mounting systems, the Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade stood out for its specific fit and ease of installation. Some friends have had success with universal shades from brands like Tenebraex, but the tailored fit of the Leupold seemed more secure and reliable for rough field use. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if it performed as well as it looked.

Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade at my local shooting range, a dusty and often sun-drenched environment. The bright sunlight reflecting off the targets had always been a nuisance, but with the sunshade installed, the difference was immediately noticeable. Glare was significantly reduced, and the target image appeared clearer and sharper.

During a particularly wet afternoon, the sunshade proved its worth by shielding the objective lens from raindrops. This prevented water spots from distorting my view, a problem I had frequently encountered before. Its ease of use was also a plus; it threaded smoothly onto my scope without any fuss, and required no tools for installation. The Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade made me think that I should have bought this a long time ago.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade has held up exceptionally well. It’s been exposed to rain, dust, and the occasional accidental bump in the field, yet it shows no signs of wear and tear. The matte black finish has resisted scratches, and the threads remain tight and secure.

Cleaning and maintenance are incredibly simple; a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth is all it takes to remove dust and grime. Compared to previous experiences with cheaply made accessories that quickly degraded, the Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade

Specifications

• The Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade is designed to fit Leupold VX-5HD, VX-6, and VX-6HD riflescopes with 42mm objective lenses. This specific fit is crucial for optimal performance and secure attachment.
• It has a 3″ length, providing ample shade without adding excessive bulk. This length strikes a balance between functionality and portability.
• Constructed from aluminum, the sunshade offers a lightweight yet durable design. The aluminum construction ensures resistance to corrosion and impact.
• The finish is matte black, matching the aesthetic of Leupold VX-series scopes. This provides a seamless and professional look.
• The sunshade is threaded, allowing for easy attachment and detachment. The threading is precise and ensures a secure fit.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the sunshade’s performance and usability. The specific fit ensures optimal shading and prevents light leakage. The lightweight design minimizes added weight to the rifle, and the durable construction guarantees longevity.

Performance & Functionality

The Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade excels at reducing glare and protecting the objective lens from rain and dust. This results in a clearer, sharper image, especially in bright sunlight or inclement weather. The sunshade enhances target acquisition and reduces eye strain, improving overall shooting performance.

Its main strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. There are no complicated mechanisms or adjustments, just a straightforward design that works. The only area for potential improvement might be a slightly longer length for even greater shading in extremely harsh conditions, although this could compromise portability.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with high-grade aluminum and a smooth matte black finish. The sunshade feels solid and well-made without being overly heavy, adding minimal weight to the overall rifle setup. Its unobtrusive design blends seamlessly with the Leupold scope, maintaining a streamlined appearance.

It is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no tools for installation or removal. The threaded design makes it easy to attach and detach as needed, and the sunshade doesn’t interfere with any scope adjustments or functions.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its aluminum construction and robust design, the Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade is built to last. It can withstand the rigors of field use without showing signs of wear and tear. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe with a clean cloth to remove dust and debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade can be threaded together with additional shades to create a custom length. This allows users to tailor the amount of shading to their specific needs and environmental conditions. This modularity provides flexibility and adaptability in various shooting scenarios. While there are no other specific accessories designed solely for this sunshade, it is compatible with lens covers and other standard scope accessories.

Pros and Cons of Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade?

The Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade is perfect for hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone who uses a Leupold VX-5HD, VX-6, or VX-6HD riflescope with a 42mm objective lens. It is particularly beneficial for those who frequently shoot in bright sunlight, snowy conditions, or wet environments. If you value clear visibility and optimal shooting performance, this is a must-have accessory.

Those who do not own a compatible Leupold scope should skip this product. Additionally, if you primarily shoot indoors or in low-light conditions, the benefits of a sunshade may not justify the cost.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality lens cleaning kit to ensure the objective lens remains clean and clear for optimal performance.

Conclusion on Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade

The Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade is a simple yet highly effective accessory that significantly enhances the performance of compatible Leupold riflescopes. Its durable construction, ease of use, and glare-reducing capabilities make it a valuable addition to any shooter’s setup. The price of $51.49 is justified by the improved visibility, lens protection, and overall shooting experience it provides.

I would personally recommend the Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade to anyone who wants to maximize the performance of their compatible Leupold scope. Don’t let glare and rain compromise your shots – invest in a Leupold Pro Gear 42mm Sunshade and experience the difference for yourself.

Check Best Price HERE