As a 21 year-old man with little to no hunting background, getting started in the world of riflescopes can be quite intimidating, and with all the big names in optics, it’s easy to get lost in the shelves worth of product in big box stores.



This year with the new VX-Freedom Riflescope line, Leupold has decided to take the guessing out of the game and provide people like me with a simple solution that will not only exceed my expectations, but set the standard once again for what to expect from a low-cost riflescope.

From a glance, it’s easy to see why so many hunters trust and stand by Leupold for all of their optics needs. It’s a 5th generation family-owned company that’s been operating since 1907, and manufacturing riflescopes since 1947 right here in the United States of America. It’s a company, that unlike other manufacturers, has a warranty that will actually last a lifetime, because they will still be around to maintain that warranty, and every single riflescope they make goes through the same rigorous testing procedure to ensure its durability. When you buy Leupold and you see that gold ring, you know it’s made with purpose and made to last a lifetime.

The new line of VX-Freedom Riflescopes offers short-to-long range options for any kind of hunting, at an affordable price for the entry level hunter. The test model we are working with is the VX-Freedom 3-9x40 CDS, which is equipped with the Leupold CDS or Custom Dial System. This system makes it possible for the entry level riflescope to have a custom turret with your specific ballistics to your rifle, something usually only found in riflescopes worth thousands of dollars.

Made of a durable and lightweight 6061-T6 aircraft quality aluminum, the VX-Freedom is built to be a workhorse riflescope that you can depend on, season after season.

The main tube is one inch, so it will work with many legacy rings and be more compatible with more rifles, so you never have to compromise to enjoy quality. The VX-Freedom 3-9x40 CDS is also waterproof and fogproof so that you can take it with you in the field in any conditions, without worry of inclement weather or unexpected accidents.

One of my favorite features of this riflescope is the ¼ MOA finger click, which allows for click adjustments for windage and elevation. Not only is this finger click absolutely accurate and reliable, but the repeatability and dependability that this brings to a riflescope of this class is unbeatable.

The obvious elephant in the room is the price for this piece of hardware, and Leupold has made that the easiest part of buying this product. With such a low price point, Leupold has made it possible for anyone from the average Joe, up to the seasonal backcountry expert, to find a riflescope that fits their every need while keeping their wallet happy.

Leupold has really hit a home run with the VX-Freedom line and they’ve made it easier than ever for an unsure hunter like me, who simply wants to find the best piece of glass at a price I can afford, to find the right scope for me.