Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40 CDS-ZL

• 3.5-10x magnification range: This classic hunting zoom span covers fast shots at shorter distances and still provides enough top-end magnification for careful placement across open ground.
• 40 mm objective with Elite Optical System: The scope balances light-gathering ability with a trim profile, giving a bright, high-contrast image at dawn and dusk without adding unnecessary bulk to the rifle.
• CDS-ZL elevation dial: Leupold’s Custom Dial System with ZeroLock makes elevation changes more controlled in the field and helps prevent an accidental turn away from the zero setting while moving through cover.
• Second focal plane Duplex reticle: The familiar Duplex layout stays visually consistent through the zoom range, making it quick to center on game and easy to use in changing light.
• Lightweight 1-inch maintube construction: At 382.71 g, this riflescope keeps a hunting rifle well balanced and easier to carry over long distances, while the compact 321.81 mm length leaves practical mounting space.

About the Leupold VX-3HD Series

The Leupold VX-3HD series was introduced in 2020 as part of the company’s established hunting riflescope range, building on the earlier VX-3 line with a stronger focus on low-light performance and practical field handling. In Leupold’s lineup, it sits as a versatile hunting optic family for shooters who want a clear step up in optical performance and dial functionality without moving into heavier long-range target scopes.

Across the range, VX-3HD models are offered in several magnification classes, objective sizes, and reticle configurations, including FireDot, Wind-Plex, and Boone & Crockett options, as well as selected side-focus versions. A defining feature of the family is the CDS ZeroLock elevation dial, paired with Leupold’s Elite Optical System for improved dawn-to-dusk transmission, glare control, and image clarity. The series also uses a practical 3:1 zoom ratio and an integrated throw lever concept, reflecting a design philosophy centered on fast magnification changes, low carried weight, and dependable use on hunting rifles in varied terrain.

About the Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40 CDS-ZL

The Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40 CDS-ZL is built around one of the most useful magnification ranges for general-purpose hunting. At 3.5x, it remains quick enough for woodland stalking, broken terrain, and shorter opportunities where a wide view helps with target acquisition. At 10x, it gives enough image scale for more deliberate shot placement across fields, clear-cuts, and hillside positions. The 40 mm objective keeps the scope slim and easy to mount while still supporting strong low-light performance for the first and last legal shooting light.

This model uses a second focal plane Duplex reticle, a practical choice for hunters who prefer an uncluttered sight picture and a reticle appearance that stays constant as magnification changes. The bold outer posts draw the eye quickly toward the center, which is especially useful against dark timber, brush, or mixed backgrounds. Because this version is non-illuminated, it keeps operation simple and avoids battery dependence.

The CDS-ZL turret system adds useful dialing capability without turning the scope into a bulky tactical optic. Its locking elevation turret helps protect the zero during transport and movement, while the available adjustment range of 55.00 MOA for elevation and windage gives flexibility for zeroing and trajectory correction. A 1-inch tube, nitrogen-filled construction, and waterproof, fogproof, shockproof build make it well suited to hard field use, and the modest 382.71 g weight helps preserve the balance of lightweight hunting rifles.

About Leupold

Leupold & Volpel was founded in 1907 in Portland, Oregon, by Fred Leupold and Adam Volpel. The company later introduced its first riflescope, the Plainsman, in 1947, establishing the product category that still defines much of the brand today. Leupold also introduced the Duplex reticle in 1962, a design that became widely adopted because it offered a fast, practical aiming picture for hunting rifles.

Today, Leupold & Stevens, Inc. is headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, where the company moved its manufacturing plant and headquarters in 1968. It remains family-owned and focuses on sport optics for hunting, shooting, and outdoor use. Its product range includes VX-series riflescopes, Mark-series tactical riflescopes, red dot sights, binoculars, spotting scopes, rangefinders, and thermal optics, giving the brand a strong reputation for building optics that prioritize field durability, manageable weight, and practical optical performance.

Main Features

• Magnification: 3.50 x - 10.00 x
• Objective lens diameter: 40.00 mm
• Field of view: 5.50 m/100m - 2.10 m/100m
• Eye relief: 4.40 mm - 3.60 mm
• Main tube diameter: 25.4 mm
• Reticle position: 2. focal plane - SFP
• Illumination: No
• Turret type: Tactical - Lockable
• Turret turns: MT - Multi Turn
• Turret rotation direction: CW
• Elevation adjustment range: 16.00 mrad / 55.00 MOA
• Windage adjustment range: 16.00 mrad / 55.00 MOA
• Length: 321.81 mm
• Weight: 382.71 g
• Housing: Nitrogen-filled
• Lens coating: Fully Multicoated
• Waterproof: Yes
• Fogproof: Yes
• Shockproof: Yes
• Color: Black
• Made in: USA

Warranty

Leupold provides this riflescope with a 10-year warranty.

In the Box

• General Riflescope Manual
• CDS Instruction Sheet
• Leupold Shooting System information
• Ballistic Aiming System information