Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service 1-4.5x 24mm FireDot Bull-Ring Reticle Rifle Scope Review

My first impression of Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service 1-4.5x 24mm FireDot Bull-Ring Reticle Rifle Scope

The world of competitive shooting demands equipment that delivers unwavering performance. The Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service 1-4.5x 24mm FireDot Bull-Ring Reticle Rifle Scope promises just that: a blend of speed, precision, and rugged reliability tailored for service rifle competitions. This optic boasts a versatile magnification range, a daylight-bright illuminated reticle, and Leupold’s legendary glass quality, making it a contender for serious shooters. Is it just marketing hype, or a true game-changer?

My aging eyes needed help on the competition range. Years of service and the relentless march of time meant my old optic wasn’t cutting it anymore. I needed something with forgiving eye relief, a clear reticle that stood out against any target, and the optical clarity to resolve distant targets in challenging lighting conditions. I considered the Trijicon ACOG and the Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E, but ultimately, the Leupold appealed to my desire for a lightweight, American-made optic specifically designed for service rifle competitions.

The Leupold arrived in typical Leupold fashion: understated yet secure packaging. Lifting it from the box, I was immediately struck by its compact size and remarkably light weight. The matte black finish was flawless, and the turrets clicked with a satisfying, precise feel. The build quality was impressive; it felt like a tool, not a toy. Initial impressions were overwhelmingly positive. This scope exuded a sense of purpose and quality, suggesting that it’s more than capable of handling the rigors of competitive shooting.

Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service 1-4.5x 24mm FireDot Bull-Ring Reticle Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service Rifle was at a local service rifle match. The weather was overcast and drizzly, presenting a real test for the optic’s light transmission capabilities. Mounting the scope was straightforward on my AR-15 platform, and zeroing was quick and easy thanks to the precise and repeatable adjustments. The FireDot Bull-Ring Reticle immediately impressed. Its daylight-bright illumination made it easy to acquire targets quickly, even against dark backgrounds.

The variable power range proved invaluable during different stages of the match. The 1x setting was perfect for close-quarters engagements and rapid transitions between targets. Cranking it up to 4.5x provided ample magnification for engaging targets at longer distances. The edge-to-edge clarity was noticeable, and the forgiving eye relief allowed me to maintain a consistent sight picture even when shooting from awkward positions. The only initial concern was the reticle size at 1x; it felt slightly larger than I was used to for very close-range work.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service Rifle has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. It has accompanied me through numerous matches and training sessions, enduring everything from scorching summer days to damp autumn afternoons. The finish has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear or scratches despite being banged around in rifle cases and used in various shooting positions. The turrets have maintained their precise adjustments, and the illumination system continues to function flawlessly.

Cleaning the scope is a breeze thanks to the Guard-Ion lens coating. Dust, dirt, and water bead right off, making maintenance quick and easy. Compared to my previous optic, the Leupold offers significantly better clarity and a much more forgiving eye box, resulting in faster target acquisition and improved accuracy. It has become an indispensable part of my competition setup, consistently delivering the performance I need to stay competitive.

Breaking Down the Features of Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service 1-4.5x 24mm FireDot Bull-Ring Reticle Rifle Scope

Specifications

The Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service 1-4.5x 24mm FireDot Bull-Ring Reticle Rifle Scope is built for the competitive shooter. It offers a magnification range of 1-4.5x, making it ideal for close- to mid-range engagements. The objective lens diameter is 24mm. The field of view spans from 26.20 feet to 123.20 feet at 100 yards.

The eye relief is a comfortable 3.70″ – 3.82″. The tube diameter is 30mm, providing ample room for adjustment. The scope is relatively compact, measuring 10.76″ in length and weighing only 13.40 oz. It features an illuminated FireDot Bull-Ring Reticle zeroed at 150 yards. These specifications combine to create a lightweight and versatile optic optimized for speed and accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service Rifle excels in its intended role. The FireDot Bull-Ring Reticle is intuitive and easy to use, even in bright sunlight. The glass clarity is exceptional thanks to the Twilight Max HD Light Management System, providing a bright and clear sight picture even in low-light conditions. The magnification range is well-suited for the dynamic nature of service rifle competitions, allowing for rapid transitions between close- and mid-range targets.

The scope’s strengths lie in its clarity, speed, and user-friendly design. One area for potential improvement would be a slightly finer reticle option for those who prefer a more precise aiming point at longer distances. Overall, the Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service Rifle meets and exceeds expectations for a dedicated competition optic.

Design & Ergonomics

The Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service Rifle boasts a streamlined and functional design. The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and precise machining. The scope feels solid and well-balanced, contributing to a comfortable shooting experience.

The ergonomics are well-thought-out. The turrets are easy to grip and adjust, even with gloved hands. The fast focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing. The scope is relatively lightweight, reducing fatigue during long matches. There is a minimal learning curve associated with this optic; it is intuitive and easy to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service Rifle is built to withstand the rigors of competitive shooting. The robust construction and high-quality materials suggest it will last for many years with proper care. The scope is waterproof and fogproof, ensuring reliable performance in adverse weather conditions.

Maintaining the Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service Rifle is simple. The Guard-Ion lens coating makes it easy to clean the lenses with a microfiber cloth. Occasional lubrication of the turrets will help to maintain their smooth operation. Overall, this scope is designed for low-maintenance operation, allowing you to focus on shooting.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service Rifle does not come with a plethora of accessories. The scope includes a basic lens cover, but most shooters will likely invest in higher-quality aftermarket options. The 30mm tube diameter provides compatibility with a wide range of mounting solutions.

While the reticle is not interchangeable, the FireDot Bull-Ring Reticle is well-suited for its intended purpose. There are no other readily available customization options for this specific model. The CDS-ZL2 elevation turret allows for custom ballistics dials, a feature that will appeal to shooters who frequently engage targets at known distances.

Pros and Cons of Leupold Competition VX-4.5HD Service 1-4.5x 24mm FireDot Bull-Ring Reticle Rifle Scope