First Look: Leupold VX-Freedom Optics for 2019

Leupold Optics is known for producing some of the most-trusted high-end riflescopes on the market, like the company's Golden Bullseye-winning Mark 5HD lineup seen here. However, many of these top-of-the-line optics are out of the budget for today's blue-collar shooters, so the company continues to expand its affordable VX-Freedom lineup with new models that are built right to get the job done without any of the high-dollar extras. Five new models hit the VX-Freedom lineup in mid-2019, including some special-edition models for the 2019 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits.

“The VX-Freedom line has been designed from the ground up to deliver the versatility and performance that hunters and shooters have come to expect from Leupold,” said Vici Peters, product line manager for Leupold & Stevens, Inc. “The addition of illuminated reticles and greater magnification range to the line provides our consumers with even more options when selecting a riflescope for their favorite activity—all at a tremendous value.”

Adding to the 16 VX-Freedom models introduced in 2018, these five new options bring enhanced capabilities to today's budget-minded shooters. Two of the new optics are equipped with the company's popular FireDot illuminated reticles. A 3-9x40mm optic is equipped with a FireDot Duplex reticle, while another AR-specific 3-9x40mm riflescope comes equipped with a FireDot Tri-Mil reticle, as well as a .223 Rem. ballistic dial and MIL turrets.

Magnification also expanded in the VX-Freedom lineup, with two new riflescopes with higher magnification options than earlier models. Consumers can now choose between a 4-12x40mm or a 6-18x40mm optic, allowing them to push their platforms out farther than ever before. Both of these high-magnification options are constructed with 30mm main-body tubes, a Tri-MOA reticle and the company's Custom Dial System. Parallax adjustment is also available.

Finally, Leupold jumped on the hot 350 Legend train with an all-new 3-9x40mm riflescope equipped with a ballistic turret with custom dial marks that correspond to the ballistic trajectory of a 150-grain 350 Legend bullet with a muzzle velocity of 2,325 fps. The 350 Legend-specific optic is also equipped with a Duplex reticle and a 1-inch main-body tube.

In celebration of these new additions to the Leupold VX-Freedom optics lineup, the company commissioned a special "Stars & Stripes" run of its VX-Freedom AR 3-9x40mm riflescope complete with a Tactical Milling Reticle and MIL adjustments. These limited-edition optics also feature a custom Cerakote finish inspired by the stars and strips on the American flag. Additionally, the windage-adjustment cap has been emblazoned with the National Rifle Association logo.

“Leupold has always been an ardent supporter of the Second Amendment and the rights it guarantees our team members and consumers alike,” said Bruce Pettet, president and chief executive officer for Leupold & Stevens, Inc. “The limited edition ‘Stars and Stripes’ VX-Freedom is a chance for us to pay tribute both to our nation, and the hard work of the National Rifle Association—all with an optic that has been designed, machined, and assembled right here in the United States.”

Only 150 scopes in this limited run are available, and they're for sale starting April 25, 2019. Consumers interested in purchasing one can do so at the Leupold & Stevens booth at the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Indianapolis, IN, or by calling the Leupold Custom Shop at 1-888-629-4811. Each custom optic will sell at an MSRP of $349.99.