I am looking for input from the group about the Leupold VX-Freedom rifle scope series. I had been using primarily Vortex optics on my rifles, but for an 18" AR build, I went with the Leupold Freedom Series in 4-12. I’ve had no complaints for the given application, that is shooting from a bench with good light. I am getting ready for my next hunting rifle purchase and will, of course, need an optic. Note, the intended use is dedicated hunting, not long range precision shooting.
Leupold’s advertising says, “Built around Leupold’s Advanced Optical System, the VX-Freedom delivers tried and true light transmission, best in class glare reduction in harsh light, and the resolution and clarity that recreational sportsmen and sportswomen demand.” Of course, they would say that. It’s marketing.
As are most Leupold optics, the Freedom series is fairly competitive on weight. It is second focal plane, limited by a 3:1 zoom ratio, and you certainly don’t get the bells and whistles you do with higher end optics. So I am curious if any of you have had experience with the Freedom series in the field? Is it a good value hunting scope? Do you know of any better competitive options in the price point ($400)? Is it better to just bite the bullet and get a higher end optic?
I have that scope and it’s decent, but I’ve had consistent problems with the large rear eyepiece being loose.
The scope I would prefer for this application would be the element optics 2-16x50. It’s extremely good glass, has a great reticle, and a perfect zoom range for hunting. It’s also second focal plane since it seems that’s what you’re looking for.
Jim, thanks for the reply. I appreciate your input. I think I may not have been clear in my post, as I was actually thinking second focal plane might be a negative. All of my current scopes are a few years old and second focal plane, as back then I didn’t really understand the difference, but I did understand dollars. Then I saw your video on the subject a while ago and for this rifle I am considering first focal plane. I still like a good value, but more and more I am coming to appreciate in scopes (and guns), there is truth in the saying, “You get what you pay for.” I’ll definitely check out the element optics, but any current recommendations on a first focal plan scope?
For a true hunting scope at normal hunting ranges a second focal plain is not a negative. Especially if you will be hunting in low light or dark timber. I also think you get what you pay for in most instances. If you’re older like me then you might find as I did a first focal plane scope is almost useless at the lower power ranges because of loss of near vision. I have two first focal plane scopes, both Nightforce. If you really want one I would recommend trying the Nightforce SHV 4x14. It’s excellent quality and also won’t break the bank. If you decide to stay with the second focal plane you might give the Night force NX8 CF2D. It allows you to range estimate on two different powers instead of on max power only. 16 x and 32x on this model. You use the hash marks on the top for 32 and bottom for 16. This will most likely be my next scope. Watched a you tube video on this one and the performance was awesome. Hope this helps.
Jim gave the Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16x44 high marks in his review of scopes under $500. This is a FFP scope. I put it on my Bergara in .308, and I have no complaints. It’s an excellent scope. I would say it has more value at longer range however–like if you are often hunting in the plains or out west (plus it is heavier than most Leupolds). I also have the VX Freedom in 4-12x40 and it’s been adequate for hunting in the woods where most shots aren’t that far away. And I enjoy the fact that it weighs like 12 or 13 oz. or whatever vs. 22 or 23. Overall, I prefer a lightweight SFP for hunting here in the midwest, but if I want longer range shots I would probably go with the FFP, which has marks on the reticle for windage and elevation hold-overs, which do not change with zoom.
I agree with Ken7STW about SFP for hunting. For my hunting (deer at 300 or less) I prefer SPF because you don’t have to zoom to max power to see the reticle. I just make a dope chart for my reticle at min and max magnification so I know where to hold so I can make a fast shot if I need to.
I have a VX-Freedom 3-9x40 CDS on my muzzleloader. I love it! It’s a great lightweight hunting scope, especially for only $300. Plus the custom dial is great. Just range your animal, turn the dial and pull the trigger. I would not hesitate to put one of these on a hunting rifle. I have a VX-5HD on my deer rifle.
I only have one FFP scope. It’s a Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50 on my 22lr bolt gun. I got mine for $250 used on GunBroker. I think the VX-Freedom has better glass than the DB Tactical and for under $400 I would take the better glass over FFP.
Element Optics look decent. I don’t have any experience with them. Their Helix 4-16x44 looks like it might fit your needs. I’d buy one if I find a good deal.
I cannot talk to the Freedom series. I have recently spent a small fortune on a VX6-3-18 50mm.
I own many Vortex scopes. Mainly Viper series 4-16 x44 and x 50. I hunt blacktails in Oregon. Usually overcast and can be rainy. These deer come out with only a few minutes before end of legal shooting hours.
Several times I could not pull the trigger because I could not see shot placement on the deer at 100 yds distance. I could see in binos but not in Vortex scopes. I do not know if light transmission is a well published spec but it is important to me - hence the $2000 Leupold vs a $650 Vortex.
Optics Planet is doing 15% off scopes and it ends today but they run sales frequently if you aren’t in a huge rush to buy. They sell Element Optics and they have a promotion that provides a set of rings free as well. Doug from Cameraland NY also sells a wide variety of scopes and gives discounts as well if you call to ask him about a discount too.
I have two Weatherby Vanguard 7mm-08 rifles. One has an Element Optics scope, the other has a Leupold VX3. I like the Element Optics scope more than the VX3 and love it compared to my dad’s VX Freedom.