The Leupold VX-1 3-9x40mm rifle scope is a perfect entry-level scope for beginners due to its price range and Leupold’s standard of excellence. While there are some cons to this riflescope, which can be expected due to its low price, the scope still has enough benefits to make it a winner if you’re not looking for a professional accessory. This review will give you a good idea of what you’re getting if you choose the VX-1 model.
General Information
The VX-1 is a 12.6-inch scope that weighs about 11 ounces and has a zoom rating between three and nine times normal magnification. The objective diameter is 40mm when looking through the scope, and you can choose either a matte or glossy black finish. This scope comes standard with a Duplex reticle, though you can also choose other reticles when buying the scope.
Reticle
This will discuss the default reticle used in the VX-1. The Duplex reticle was developed by Leupold and is mimicked in many other scopes due to its ability to help hunters quickly acquire targets. It features thick black lines around the outside that become small, precise lines near the center. This ensures that your eye naturally avoids any distraction outside of your intended target.
Waterproofing
A scope that’s filled with water is practically useless. The VX-1 comes standard with nitrogen treatment that is performed on every Leupold scope. The oxygen is removed from the scope and replaced with nitrogen, which ensures that water cannot seep into the body. More expensive scopes are also treated with argon and other gases that provide better waterproofing, but the VX-1 only uses nitrogen.
While this isn’t the best protection that Leupold can provide, it should be more than enough to keep water at bay.
Elevation Adjustment
This is the only problem with the scope. There is an elevation adjustment that allows you to better aim your gun at higher or lower elevations. For some, the adjustment is perfect and can easily hit targets from 100 yards away. For others, the adjustment is a little erratic and unreliable.
If you use the right type of ammunition and properly calibrate the adjustment, then it should be fine. Just make sure to test it out at a range before going in the field.
Eye Relief
The eye relief has been noted as exceptional in most Leupold riflescopes. You will find that it’s between 4.2 inches at minimum magnification and 3.7 inches at maximum magnification. This is better than most scopes, and it also makes the scope a great addition to magnum rifles.
Lens Coating
Glare is a hunter’s worst enemy. It can keep you from using optimal angles and areas, and it makes using a scope a pain and a hazard. Every Leupold scope, including the VX-1, is treated with Multicoat 4 protection. This is a special coating that removes glare and improves usable light. This will make it much easier for you to find targets, even as the sun goes down.
Warranty
Leupold offers a lifetime warranty on all of their scopes, even if you aren’t the original owner. If anything ever happens to the scope, such as it not maintaining perfect impact or the lens becoming foggy, then you can send it to Leupold and get a new scope for free. Leupold is very particular about maintaining their standard of excellence, and they are more than happy to replace broken or imperfect scopes.
Conclusion
The VX-1 is a perfect scope for beginners or anyone looking to see the Leupold difference without spending a fortune. While this model doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of their more expensive models, it’s still an efficient scope with many practical benefits. Click here to buy one on Amazon, or watch another review to see a second opinion of this great scope: