Leupold VX-6 Scope Review
Leupold scopes have been a part of my life as long as I can remember. Either they were on the rifles my Dad had when I was kid, or they were “in the works” to be on those rifles! The “Golden Ring” was, and is, a symbol of trust, quality, and American Pride (Made in the USA). In the years since I have used a variety of Leupold scopes from the budget VX1 and Rifleman, to the top of the line VX6 scopes.
While the VX6 is not for everyone, the high quality optical clarity it brings is an experience in itself. As a contact lens wearer, and with eyes that are no longer 20; light, compact scopes were just not cutting it for me. I shot a Dall Ram at 350 yards with using a Leupold VXIII 2.5-8x36mm scope. It was one of the longest kills I have made, and 350 yards at 8x left me wanting more. While this scope is a mountain rifle classic, its time for me had passed.
A friend of mine pointed me to a screaming deal on a Leupold VX-6 2-12×42 (30mm) CDS scope. I paired this with set of 30mm Burris Signature Zee Rings with the Posi Inserts for a rock solid set up. This scope sits on top a Remington 700 KS Custom Mountain Rifle in .338 WM. Its a tack driver of a rifle, shooting 225gr hand loaded Accubonds; a versatile bullet for just about all Alaska can throw my way. This combo resulted in a nice Caribou Bull on one of those misty cold Alaskan tundra mornings.
When the opportunity arose for me to test Cooper’s Model 92 Backcountry I knew a rifle of that quality demanded a high quality scope. I am big fan of hunting forums, and anyone who spends much time on these forums recognizes that CameraLand NY is a dedicated sponsor; and advertises on numerous forums. I have used CameraLand NY for several optic purchases over the years and reached out to them regarding various options.
My demo Model 92 is in .300 WM and its intended use is backpack, remote hunts, in high places. As such I wanted a durable scope that gave me optical clarity out to 500 yards. Despite a few close moments of almost purchases, I ended up choosing the Leupold VX-6 3-18x44mm (30mm) Side Focus CDS scope. I mounted it with a set of Leupold Rings, the only 30mm rings. Surprisingly, my first scope had a damaged reticle, the first out of the box problem I have ever experienced in any Leupold product. However, Leupold was over the top in sending me a replacement, and the rifle was quickly back in action.
Cooper M92 / VX-6 headed on an adventure
Lets take a moment and look at what makes up the VX-6. Leupold’s VX-6 combines Leupold’s legendary ruggedness, provides stunning clear optics, and features a huge 6x zoom ratio, a must have for me if I wanted to enhance my visibility. Another key feature I was looking for was a way to enhance my low light field conditions. The VX-6 incorporates Leupold’s Xtended Twilight Lens System; a simple way of describing a complex system of index matched lenses, computer technology, and proprietary coatings; to deliver a industry leading scope that brings out the details of low-light scenes in greater definition and luminance.
Leupold’s coating includes a technology they call DiamondCoat 2. It compliments the Xtended Twilight System and is an ion-assist lens coating. This allows for the highest light transmission and the greatest level of abrasion resistance Leupold has ever offered. The original DiamondCoat exceeds military standards for hardness and durability, and DiamondCoat 2 offers enhanced durability. DiamondCoat 2 has the additional advantage of assisting in light transmission. All of this results in tough lenses; enhanced for greater brightness, clarity and contrast.
Other features I enjoy are the smooth zoom, and generous eye box. This allows me to mount the scope in a position that is ideal for rugged terrain and still have a great view through the scope. While both of my VX-6 scopes feature CDS (Leupold’s Custom Dial System), I have not utilized this feature enough to be able to comment on it. Due to concerns (based on forum research) with the VX-6s tracking ability I have not utilized the Dial System. I had hoped to utilize this feature as I continued by load development fine tuning of this rifle. I plan to reach out to Leupold and separate fact from fiction as I ponder this.
To summarize: it’s tough, it’s bright, it’s clear, and it’s made in the USA, Even better? It features a lifetime warranty.
For all your optic needs, call up the fine folks at CameralandNY, let them know you appreciate their support of your favorite forum (odds are they do support it) and see what kind of deal they can make you.
Since this article was published Leupold has revamped their lineup with the new VX-5HD and VX-6HD models. This review is for the original Leupold VX6. Leupold moved to the new models as part of their normal product enhancements. Internet rumors of issues with the VX-6 are rampant. However, I reached out to a few sources in the optic industry and directly to Leupold. While acknowledging that problems do occasionally come up (as they do with any product with a human touch), the rumors seem to be churning much harder than reality. Leupold guarantees the product. If your worried that your scope is not tracking properly, or something else is off, give them a call. They stand behind their products and will do what it takes to ensure everything is working as it should. In the meantime, I’d track down a few of these VX-6s. Great scope for the money! #LeupoldCore
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