My first impression of Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial
The Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial promises rapid elevation adjustments for competitive shooters, a claim that immediately piqued my interest. I’ve spent years tweaking turrets, often wishing for a more intuitive and faster system, particularly during timed stages. Leupold, a name synonymous with quality optics, entering the speed dialing arena felt like a significant step.
I was looking for a dialing system that would allow me to make precise adjustments quickly and without having to break my shooting position. The standard MOA/MIL turrets often feel too small and require too much mental math under pressure. I needed something bigger, bolder, and built for speed.
Upon unboxing, the Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial immediately struck me as a purpose-built piece of equipment. Its aggressive knurling suggested a solid grip, even with gloved hands. The enlarged numbers on the first row were a welcome sight, offering better visibility than the standard turrets I’m used to.
Compared to standard capped turrets or even target turrets from other manufacturers like Vortex or Nightforce, the Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial seemed to prioritize speed and ease of use above all else. While some might prefer the sleek, low-profile design of standard turrets, the aggressive, oversized nature of the Speed Dial made it clear that this was a tool designed for one thing: winning. I chose this dial over others specifically for its promise of increased speed in making elevation adjustments during competition.
Initially, I was excited but also cautiously optimistic. Could the Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial truly live up to its promise of faster adjustments? The design was promising, but the true test would be on the range, under the clock.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial at a local PRS-style match. The range offered a variety of targets from 300 to 800 yards, presenting a perfect opportunity to evaluate its performance. Conditions were typical for a Southern California summer day: sunny, with a slight breeze.
Using the Speed Dial proved to be surprisingly intuitive. The enlarged numbers and aggressive knurling made it easy to grip and adjust, even with sweaty hands. The zero lock and zero stop features provided a tactile and visual reference, ensuring I didn’t accidentally dial past my zero. The adjustment clicks were positive and audible, providing assurance of accurate movement.
One initial issue I encountered was the size of the dial. It is quite large, and I had to adjust my cheek weld slightly to avoid inadvertently bumping it during recoil.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of wear and tear, and the dial continues to function smoothly and reliably. The adjustments remain precise, and the zero lock/stop still provides a solid return to zero.
Cleaning and maintaining the Speed Dial is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a clean cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dust or debris. I periodically apply a small amount of gun oil to the moving parts to ensure smooth operation.
Compared to my previous experiences with standard MOA turrets, the Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial has been a significant improvement. The speed and ease of adjustment have noticeably improved my stage times, and the confidence provided by the positive clicks and zero lock/stop has reduced my stress during competitions. It has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial
Specifications
- The Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial is designed for rapid elevation adjustments on Leupold Mark 5HD riflescopes. Its enlarged first row of numbers allows for quick identification.
- It features aggressive knurling for enhanced grip, even when wearing gloves or in adverse conditions. The dial has both a zero lock to prevent accidental movement and a zero stop for a positive return to zero.
- The price of the Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial is $53.99. This price point makes it an affordable upgrade for competitive shooters.
These specifications are crucial for competitive shooting. The enlarged numbers and knurling enhance speed and precision, while the zero lock and stop provide confidence in maintaining zero.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial excels at its intended purpose: providing rapid and reliable elevation adjustments. Its ease of use and tactile feedback allow shooters to make corrections quickly and accurately. The dial operates smoothly, and the positive clicks provide confidence in each adjustment.
The primary strength of the Speed Dial is its speed and ease of use. The main weakness is its size; it is larger than standard turrets.
It has definitely met and exceeded expectations. The Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial delivers on its promise of faster and more intuitive elevation adjustments.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial is constructed from high-quality materials, offering a robust and durable feel. The aggressive knurling provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The oversized numbers are easy to read at a glance.
The design is intuitive, but the overall size may require some adjustment to cheek weld, particularly for shooters accustomed to smaller turrets.
Durability & Maintenance
The Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial appears to be built to last. The materials and construction are robust. Regular maintenance is minimal, involving only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial is primarily an upgrade to existing Leupold Mark 5HD scopes. It does not come with additional accessories.
It is designed to be compatible with all Leupold Mark 5HD riflescopes that accept interchangeable turrets.
Pros and Cons of Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial
Pros
- Enlarged numbers for rapid identification and adjustment.
- Aggressive knurling provides exceptional grip in all conditions.
- Zero lock and zero stop ensure reliable return to zero and prevent accidental adjustments.
- Positive and audible clicks provide confidence in each adjustment.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Oversized design may require adjusting cheek weld.
- Limited compatibility; only works with Leupold Mark 5HD scopes.
Who Should Buy Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial?
Perfect for competitive shooters, especially those participating in PRS or similar disciplines, who need rapid and reliable elevation adjustments. This is also ideal for any shooter who values speed and ease of use in their dialing system.
Those who prefer a low-profile design or those who do not own a Leupold Mark 5HD scope should skip this product.
Must-have modifications would include a scope level to ensure proper cant, and potentially a larger scope ring to allow for a comfortable cheek weld.
Conclusion on Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial
The Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial is a well-designed and effective upgrade for Leupold Mark 5HD riflescopes. It delivers on its promise of faster and more intuitive elevation adjustments, providing a significant advantage for competitive shooters.
The price of $53.99 is more than justified by the improved performance and ease of use. It’s a small investment that can yield big results on the range.
I would highly recommend the Leupold Mark 5 Competition Speed Dial to any serious competitive shooter or anyone looking to improve the speed and precision of their elevation adjustments. Upgrade your Mark 5HD today and experience the difference!