Those of you who follow us on social media know we’ve been using the new Leupold Mark 5 HD 5-25x56mm riflescope. I have it mounted on my DMR 18″ 6.5mm Creedmoor with KG Made Rogue 30 suppressor. At the time of writing this I’ve had the scope for 2 + months and have shot about ~200 rounds through the rifle with it. Before the scope arrived I ordered a set of Badger Ordnance extra high 35mm rings. The Mark 5 has a 35mm main tube so you won’t be able to re-use your 34mm rings, or mount. This isn’t a huge issue because many reputable manufacturers including Leupold make high quality 35mm rings and mounts.

The Mark 5 HD 5-25x56mm appealed to me initially because of the features it included. The rifle scope is first focal plane with TMR reticle (open center). The elevation and windage knobs have 0.1 MRAD clicks with a very easy to use zero stop on the elevation knob. The windage knob features a protective cap and “0” line located above center meant to make it easier to view without breaking cheek weld. I’m so used to the traditional location that I find it a little odd but the reality is I use the windage knob to zero the scope, put the cap on it and use the reticle to hold wind. The scope I have is non-illuminated which saves some money (illuminated reticle is available).

When I got the scope in hand I was happy with the weight at 30 oz. and length at 15.67″. The Mark 5 HD is on the light & short end of the spectrum for a scope of this magnification range. I found the clicks to be tactile and easy to identify. I like the zero stop/lock features which has a button you press to dial elevation into the turret. This also serves as a revolution indicator. On the second rev the button will become flush with the turret, and on the third rev a pin will protrude from the top of the turret helping you keep track of where you’re at. I have found the glass to be very good and comparable with the Vortex Razor II HD/AMG line. I’ve only spent a little bit of time in the late evening viewing through the scope but was impressed with the image it produced just after sunset. The eye relief is generous as you would expect and the eye box is surprisingly forgiving.

I was told the Mark 5 HD line represents a new direction for Leupold and was heavily influenced by feedback from military users and competitive shooters. I think this is apparent by the addition of the CCH reticle, removable extension on the magnification ring and location of the windage zero line. Although I have to get used to its placement, it shows they are incorporating new ideas into their products and thinking outside of the box. The Mark 5 HD is not the only new product from Leopold we’ve taken notice of. The positive experience we’ve had also prompted us to go with the VX-3i LRP 6.5-20x50mm for Dane’s ultralight 6.5 PRC hunting rifle. The VX-3i LRP impressed us with its features and 22 oz weight! We’re also considering other Leupold products like binoculars and spotting scopes for our 2018 scouting/hunting season.

My uses for the scope are recreational long range shooting, local matches and big game hunting. The Leupold Mark 5 HD is more than capable of filling all these roles and the Lifetime Guarantee gives you piece of mind if something unfortunate happens, or you experience a failure. I have not noticed any indication that the scope is not tracking properly or maintaining zero. Leupold is a storied United States optics manufacturer and I have been well aware of their existence since I was a kid. My grandfather uses Leuplold scopes, my father uses Leupold scopes and I’m happy to say I’m using one again too.