My first impression of Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle
For over a decade, I’ve been guiding customers through the complex world of optics, helping them select the perfect tool for their specific needs. The Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle immediately caught my attention with its promise of clarity, precision, and ruggedness. Leupold has always been a name synonymous with quality, but this scope seemed to be pushing the boundaries of what’s expected in its price range.
I needed a scope that could handle the demands of both long-range target shooting and the occasional hunting trip in varied terrain. My old optic was failing to hold zero consistently. So, I wanted something I could trust for those critical shots.
The unboxing experience was impressive; the scope felt substantial and well-made, exhibiting Leupold’s renowned craftsmanship. The matte black finish looked sleek and professional, while the tactile clicks of the turrets inspired confidence. Compared to similar offerings from Vortex and Nightforce that I’ve handled, the Mark 4HD’s balance of features and manageable weight stood out. I was genuinely excited to mount it and see what it could do.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range. I was eager to see how the Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle performed at various distances. The weather was clear, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for sighting in and testing the scope’s capabilities.
The PR1-MIL reticle was intuitive and easy to use for ranging and holdovers. The image was crystal clear, edge-to-edge, even at maximum magnification. After zeroing at 100 yards, I quickly moved to targets at 300, 500, and finally 800 yards, achieving consistent groupings. The side focus adjustment made dialing out parallax a breeze, ensuring a sharp image at any distance. There were no unexpected surprises, just smooth and accurate performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle has proven to be a reliable workhorse. It’s accompanied me on two hunting trips, enduring everything from light rain to dusty trails.
The scope has held zero perfectly, even after being bumped and jostled during backcountry hikes. The finish shows minimal signs of wear, a testament to its durable construction. Cleaning has been simple. Just a quick wipe-down with a lens cloth keeps everything pristine. Compared to my previous optic, the Mark 4HD offers significantly improved clarity, a more versatile reticle, and far superior durability, completely exceeding my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle
Specifications
- Magnification: 4.5-18x. This provides a versatile zoom range, suitable for both close-quarters and long-range engagements.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 52mm. A larger objective lens gathers more light, resulting in a brighter and clearer image, especially in low-light conditions.
- Field of View: 23.10 – 5.20 ft @ 100 yds. This describes the width of the area you can see through the scope at 100 yards, varying with magnification.
- Eye Relief: 3.60″ – 3.90″. This is the distance your eye needs to be from the scope to see the full image, crucial for comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil firearms.
- Tube Diameter: 34mm. A larger tube diameter allows for a wider range of internal adjustments for elevation and windage, enhancing long-range accuracy.
- Length: 14.60″. The overall length should be considered when choosing an optic, to balance functionality with weight and ease of handling.
- Weight: 27 oz. This is a critical spec as it affects the overall balance of the rifle and the shooter’s fatigue over extended use.
- Reticle: Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL. Illuminated reticles improve visibility in low light, while FFP (First Focal Plane) means the reticle’s size changes with magnification, enabling accurate ranging and holdovers at any zoom level.
- Side Focus: This allows for easy parallax adjustment, resulting in a sharper image at varying distances, critical for precision shooting.
These specifications combine to offer a high-performance optic for a range of shooting disciplines. The generous objective lens and illuminated reticle enhance low-light performance. While the robust 34mm tube provides ample adjustment range for long-range accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle excels in its core function: delivering accurate and repeatable shots. The M5C3 turrets provide precise and audible clicks, allowing for confident adjustments in the field.
The PR1-MIL reticle is intuitive, allowing for quick and accurate ranging and holdovers. The scope’s clarity is exceptional. Edge-to-edge sharpness provides a clear and detailed sight picture. The only minor weakness I’ve found is that the illumination, while effective, could be slightly brighter for daytime use in very bright conditions. Overall, the scope exceeds expectations for accuracy and usability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mark 4HD boasts a rugged and streamlined design. The matte black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, minimizing glare and reflections. The weight of 27 ounces is reasonable for a scope of this size and feature set, striking a good balance between durability and maneuverability.
The turrets are well-positioned and easy to grip, even with gloved hands. The side focus knob is smooth and precise. There’s virtually no learning curve. The design is intuitive and user-friendly from the start.
Durability & Maintenance
The Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle is built to last. The rugged construction and high-quality materials inspire confidence in its long-term durability.
Maintenance is straightforward; the lens coatings resist smudging and are easy to clean with a standard lens cloth. I anticipate this scope will provide years of reliable service with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle does not come with a vast array of accessories, focusing instead on core performance. It includes Leupold’s standard scope cover. The 34mm tube diameter makes it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket rings and mounts from various manufacturers like American Defense and Spuhr.
The PR1-MIL reticle is a good all-around choice, but those seeking greater customization might explore other reticle options within the Mark 4HD line. Lens caps and sunshades are readily available and can further enhance the scope’s performance in specific environments.
Pros and Cons of Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle
Pros
- Exceptional Clarity and Edge-to-Edge Sharpness: This provides a clear and detailed sight picture, improving accuracy.
- Precise and Audible Turrets: This provides confident adjustments in the field.
- Durable and Rugged Construction: Withstands harsh conditions and ensures long-term reliability.
- Intuitive PR1-MIL Reticle: This allows for quick and accurate ranging and holdovers.
- Versatile Magnification Range: This is suitable for both close-quarters and long-range engagements.
Cons
- Illumination Could Be Brighter: In very bright daytime conditions, the reticle illumination could be more powerful.
- Relatively Limited Accessories Included: The scope focuses on core performance, with few included extras.
Who Should Buy Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle?
The Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle is perfect for serious hunters seeking a reliable and accurate optic for a variety of game and terrains. It’s also great for competitive shooters who value precision and repeatability. Long-range enthusiasts and tactical shooters will appreciate the features and ruggedness this scope offers.
This scope may not be the best choice for casual plinkers or those on a very tight budget. Those needing extreme low-light performance for dedicated nighttime hunting might consider options with larger objective lenses or specialized reticles. A must-have accessory is a high-quality set of scope rings to ensure a secure and stable mounting platform.
Conclusion on Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle
The Leupold 183624 Mark 4HD Matte Black 4.5-18x52mm, 34mm Tube, Illuminated FFP PR1-MIL Reticle is a top-tier optic that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and value. The price is justified by the quality of the glass, the precision of the turrets, and the overall ruggedness of the design.
I wholeheartedly recommend this scope to anyone seeking a reliable and accurate optic for serious hunting, competition, or tactical applications. If you’re ready to take your shooting to the next level, invest in the Leupold Mark 4HD. You won’t be disappointed.