Leupold VX-3 3.5-10x40mm CDS Rifle Scope Review

Features:

Leupold pushed everything to the limit when designing the VX®-3 rifle scope. It features drastically improved optical performance, mechanical function, and durability. With the Custom Dial System (CDS) the VX-3 can be precisely matched to your rifle's ballistics. The VX-3 features Xtended Twilight Lens System™, DiamondCoat 2™ lens coatings, blackened lens edges, tactile power indicator, cryogenically treated, ¼-MOA click windage and elevation adjustments with resettable pointer dials, lockable extreme fast-focus eyepiece, and is completely waterproof. Includes scope cover and one CDS dial by mail.

Specifications:

Reticle: Duplex
Length: 12.6 inches
Tube Diameter: 1 inch
Actual Magnification: 3.3 - 9.7
FOV @ 100 yds: 29.8 - 11.0 feet
Eye Relief: 4.4 - 3.6 inches
Weight: 12.6 oz. (357 g)
Warranty: Full Lifetime

Initial Thoughts (04/05/11):

The Leupold VX-3 CDS rifle scope comes in a sturdy gold and black box indicative of the fine craftsmanship Leupold is known for. Right out of the box, I noticed how crystal clear the optics are on this scope peering through my backyard on an overcast day. If all goes well, a deer will soon be in the crosshairs. I really like the power selector on the VX-3. It is easy to use and operates smoothly. My old VX-II was smooth as well, but the VX-3 is easier to use. The eyepiece focus is easy to adjust and lock in place, but I found it perfect right out of the box. Mounting and bore sighting were also very straight forward. I had two CDS dials made for different loads I plan to use with my rifle. They were easy to order and came within a few weeks. They quickly install with three hex screws.

Initial Field Test (08/06/11):

My first use of the Leupold VX-3 scope was on a camping trip near Mount Hood, Oregon. We found a safe spot in the woods to sight in my Tikka T3 Lite Stainless rifle. I found the scope very comfortable to look through. It was a warm sunny day and the image through the VX-3 was crisp and clear. Adjustments to windage and elevation were effortless. The direction is clearly marked on the dials making it a no brainier. After a box of ammo I was able shoot sub 1" groups and nailed a milk jug about 80 yards away. I look forward to using the Leupold VX-3 on the range and eventually deer hunting this fall.

Extended Field Testing:

Coming soon...

Final Thoughts:

Coming soon...

Available from amazon.com.