Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x 56mm FFP H59 Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.80″ – 3.60″ Eye Relief, 4.20 – 20.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 5-25x Adjustable Magnification, 15.67″ Length Review

First Thoughts on the Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x 56mm FFP H59 Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.80″ – 3.60″ Eye Relief, 4.20 – 20.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 5-25x Adjustable Magnification, 15.67″ Length

The Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x 56mm FFP H59 Reticle Rifle Scope is a serious piece of glass aimed at serious shooters. Manufactured by Leupold, a name synonymous with quality optics, this scope boasts a feature set tailored for long-range precision and tactical applications, particularly given its advanced H59 reticle. I was immediately drawn to its potential for enhancing my long-range shooting capabilities.

For years, I struggled with scopes that added unnecessary weight to my rifles, making them cumbersome for extended use in the field. My specific need was for a scope that provided exceptional clarity and a wide magnification range without sacrificing portability. The Mark 5HD’s reputation for being lighter than its competitors was a major selling point.

Unboxing the Mark 5HD revealed a scope that felt incredibly robust despite its relatively light weight. The finish was flawless, and the adjustments felt precise and tactile. It gave off an immediate impression of quality craftsmanship.

I considered the Vortex Razor HD Gen III and the Nightforce ATACR before ultimately settling on the Leupold. While both competitors offered excellent glass, the Leupold’s lighter weight and reputation for superior edge-to-edge clarity gave it the edge. I was excited to see if the Mark 5HD lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x 56mm FFP H59 Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.80″ – 3.60″ Eye Relief, 4.20 – 20.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 5-25x Adjustable Magnification, 15.67″ Length to the Test

First Use Experience

I mounted the Leupold Mark 5HD on my custom-built .308 precision rifle and headed to my local range, which offers distances out to 1000 yards. The first thing I noticed was how easy it was to get behind the scope. The generous eye relief made finding a comfortable cheek weld a breeze.

The range day included variable weather conditions, from bright sunlight to overcast skies with intermittent rain. The Mark 5HD excelled in all conditions, providing a clear and crisp image even in challenging lighting. I did not encounter any issues or surprises after first use, I was immediately impressed by the clarity of the glass and the precision of the adjustments.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Leupold Mark 5HD has proven to be an incredibly reliable optic. Despite being subjected to the recoil of a .308 and regular transportation in a rifle case, it has held zero flawlessly. There have been no signs of wear and tear on the finish or any degradation in optical performance.

Maintaining the scope is incredibly simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a lens cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. The Mark 5HD significantly outperforms my previous scope, offering better clarity, a more usable reticle, and a more robust build. It’s a significant upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x 56mm FFP H59 Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.80″ – 3.60″ Eye Relief, 4.20 – 20.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 4.20 – 20.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 5-25x Adjustable Magnification, 15.67″ Length

Specifications

The Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x 56mm FFP H59 Reticle Rifle Scope features a 5-25x adjustable magnification range, making it versatile for both close- and long-range shooting. Its 56mm objective lens maximizes light transmission, providing a bright and clear image even in low-light conditions. The scope’s 15.67″ length and approximately 30 oz weight strike a good balance between size and portability.

The Mark 5HD boasts a 35mm maintube, allowing for a wide range of elevation and windage adjustments (34.9 MIL elevation, 17.5 MIL windage). The H59 reticle, situated in the First Focal Plane (FFP), provides accurate holdovers at any magnification. Eye relief varies from 3.80″ at low magnification to 3.60″ at high magnification, while the field of view ranges from 20.50 ft at 100 yds (5x) to 4.20 ft at 100 yds (25x). These specifications are vital for long-range shooting, providing the necessary precision and clarity for accurate shot placement.

Performance & Functionality

The Leupold Mark 5HD excels in its primary function: enabling accurate long-range shooting. The image clarity is exceptional, with minimal distortion even at maximum magnification. The M5C3 ZeroLock adjustments are precise and repeatable, allowing for quick and easy corrections in the field.

The H59 reticle is a major asset, providing a wealth of information without cluttering the sight picture. The illumination control is intuitive and offers a wide range of brightness settings. The scope’s only weakness is its price point, which may be prohibitive for some shooters. However, it delivers exceptional performance that justifies the cost for serious long-range enthusiasts.

Design & Ergonomics

The Mark 5HD’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The build quality is outstanding, with a robust aluminum housing that can withstand the rigors of field use. The scope feels well-balanced and comfortable to handle, even with gloves on.

The ergonomic design includes a throw lever for rapid magnification changes and a European-style fast-focus eyepiece. These features enhance usability and reduce the learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Leupold Mark 5HD is built to last. The 6061-T6 Aircraft Quality Aluminum construction and Leupold’s legendary durability make it a reliable optic for years to come. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses and external surfaces.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Leupold Mark 5HD comes standard with flip-open lens covers, protecting the lenses from dust and scratches. While the scope itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, it’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as scope mounts, sunshades, and anti-reflection devices. The 35mm tube is a common size, ensuring compatibility with most high-quality scope rings and mounts from brands like Spuhr and Badger Ordnance.

Pros and Cons of Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x 56mm FFP H59 Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.80″ – 3.60″ Eye Relief, 4.20 – 20.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 5-25x Adjustable Magnification, 15.67″ Length

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Who Should Buy Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x 56mm FFP H59 Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.80″ – 3.60″ Eye Relief, 4.20 – 20.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 5-25x Adjustable Magnification, 15.67″ Length?

The Leupold Mark 5HD is perfect for serious long-range shooters, competitive marksmen, and hunters who demand the best possible performance from their optics. It is also well-suited for law enforcement and military personnel who require a reliable and accurate scope for tactical applications. This scope is the top-tier choice for those who value precision and reliability.

Those who are new to long-range shooting or who are on a tight budget may find the Mark 5HD to be overkill. Shooters primarily focused on short-range applications would likely find a lower-magnification scope more suitable. A high-quality scope mount is a must-have accessory to ensure proper alignment and secure attachment to the rifle.

Conclusion on Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x 56mm FFP H59 Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.80″ – 3.60″ Eye Relief, 4.20 – 20.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 5-25x Adjustable Magnification, 15.67″ Length

The Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x 56mm FFP H59 Reticle Rifle Scope is an exceptional optic that delivers outstanding performance in a lightweight and durable package. While the price may be a barrier for some, the exceptional optical clarity, precise adjustments, and advanced reticle make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. The Mark 5HD is definitely worth it for the clarity and precision.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Leupold Mark 5HD to anyone seeking a top-tier long-range scope. If you’re serious about long-range shooting, the Mark 5HD will not disappoint, so invest in your success and experience the difference.

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