First Impressions of Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial
The world of competitive shooting demands precision, speed, and unwavering reliability. The Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial aims to deliver just that, promising faster and more intuitive elevation adjustments when every fraction of a second counts. This aftermarket dial upgrade for the Leupold Mark 5HD series of scopes is specifically designed for competitive shooters and those who need rapid elevation changes in dynamic shooting scenarios.
What drew me to the Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial was the need for faster target engagement in 3-Gun competitions. I was tired of fumbling with my scope’s elevation turret under pressure, often losing precious seconds that could cost me a stage. I needed a system that was both easy to read and quick to adjust, allowing for rapid transitions between targets at varying distances.
Upon unboxing, the Competition Speed Dial immediately struck me as a well-engineered piece of equipment. The enlarged font on the first row of numbers is instantly noticeable, and the aggressive knurling on the dial’s edge inspires confidence. The matte black finish seamlessly integrates with the existing aesthetics of the Mark 5HD scope, and the overall construction feels robust and durable.
Compared to standard elevation turrets or even other aftermarket options with smaller markings, the Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial offered a clear advantage in terms of visibility and tactile feel. I chose this product for its reputation for quality and precision, characteristics synonymous with the Leupold name, and the promise of faster, more reliable adjustments. I was excited to see if it could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial was at a local 3-Gun match. I zeroed my rifle the day before and familiarized myself with the dial’s adjustments. The stage required engaging targets from 100 to 500 yards, demanding quick elevation changes.
Even with adrenaline pumping, the enlarged numbers on the dial made it remarkably easy to identify the correct elevation settings. The aggressive knurling provided a secure grip, even with sweaty hands, and the dial turned smoothly and precisely. The ZeroLock feature proved invaluable, preventing accidental dial movement as I moved between shooting positions.
Initially, I did have to spend some time re-learning my holds since the larger numbers take up more real estate. However, the tradeoff was well worth it for the increased speed and clarity.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use in various competitions and practice sessions, the Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. There are no signs of wear or tear, and the dial still turns with the same smooth, precise feel as when it was new. The matte black finish has held up well, resisting scratches and maintaining its low-profile appearance.
Maintaining the Speed Dial is virtually effortless. I simply wipe it down with a clean cloth after each shooting session to remove any dust or debris. Compared to other scope accessories I’ve used, the Competition Speed Dial requires minimal maintenance. It has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Leupold.
- Color: Black.
- Finish: Matte.
- Gun Make: Universal.
- Gun Model: Universal.
- Condition: New.
The Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial provides two revolutions of elevation adjustment. The push-button ZeroLock feature prevents accidental dial movement, and the Zero Stop system creates a solid backstop when returning the dial to zero.
These specifications are critical for competitive shooters because they ensure quick, accurate, and repeatable adjustments under pressure. The ZeroLock prevents costly errors, while the Zero Stop allows for confident return to zero after making significant elevation changes. The two revolutions of adjustment provide ample range for engaging targets at varying distances.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial excels in its primary function: providing fast and reliable elevation adjustments. The enlarged numbers are exceptionally easy to read, even in challenging lighting conditions, and the aggressive knurling ensures a positive grip.
The ZeroLock and Zero Stop features work flawlessly, providing added security and preventing accidental errors. The only area for slight improvement might be the tactile feedback of the clicks; a slightly more pronounced “click” could further enhance the user experience.
Overall, the Competition Speed Dial meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial boasts a simple yet effective design. The matte black finish seamlessly blends with the Mark 5HD scope, and the dial’s size and shape are ergonomically optimized for easy manipulation.
The build quality is excellent, reflecting Leupold’s commitment to durability and precision. Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and minimal mechanical knowledge. The Competition Speed Dial is user-friendly and intuitive, requiring little to no learning curve for experienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure it can withstand the rigors of competitive shooting and outdoor use.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dust and debris. The Competition Speed Dial is a long-term investment that will provide years of reliable performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial is a standalone accessory designed to replace the standard elevation turret on Mark 5HD scopes. It does not require any additional accessories for installation or operation.
While the Speed Dial itself is not customizable, it enhances the overall functionality of the Mark 5HD scope, allowing users to optimize their rifle for competitive shooting. This upgrade can be paired with other accessories like scope levels, anti-cant devices, and custom ballistics turrets to further enhance accuracy and performance.
Pros and Cons of Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial
Pros
- Enlarged Numbers: Drastically improves readability and speeds up target engagement.
- Aggressive Knurling: Provides a secure grip even in adverse conditions.
- ZeroLock System: Prevents accidental dial movement, ensuring consistent accuracy.
- Zero Stop System: Allows for a confident return to zero after making significant elevation changes.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward installation process with minimal tools required.
Cons
- Price: While not exorbitant, it is an investment.
- Slightly increased dial size: Could interfere with some scope mounting setups depending on ring height and rifle configuration.
Who Should Buy Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial?
The Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial is perfect for competitive shooters, tactical shooters, and anyone who needs to make rapid and accurate elevation adjustments in dynamic shooting scenarios. It is particularly beneficial for those with less-than-perfect eyesight or who struggle with fine motor skills under pressure.
Those who primarily engage targets at fixed distances or who prioritize a streamlined, minimalist setup might not find the Competition Speed Dial necessary. This product caters to those who value speed, precision, and ease of use above all else.
A must-have accessory to pair with the Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial is a high-quality rangefinder. Accurate distance measurements are crucial for maximizing the benefits of the Speed Dial and ensuring precise target engagement.
Conclusion on Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial
The Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial is a well-designed and highly effective upgrade for Mark 5HD scopes. Its enlarged numbers, aggressive knurling, and robust features make it an invaluable asset for competitive shooters and those who demand speed and precision.
While the price point might be a barrier for some, the performance benefits justify the investment. The Competition Speed Dial significantly improves target engagement speed and reduces the risk of accidental errors, ultimately enhancing accuracy and confidence on the range.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Leupold Mark 5HD Competition Speed Dial to anyone looking to optimize their Mark 5HD scope for competitive shooting or tactical applications. Upgrade your setup today and experience the difference that speed and precision can make.