Last updated on August 8th, 2026
The Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 is a popular long-range and tactical riflescope. This review covers the exact sample I used, including glass, controls, the Tremor3 reticle and performance to 700 metres.
Availability: EuroOptic Mark 5HD listings | ScopeList | Amazon.
Leupold Mark 5HD Background
Leupold has a long history in the US, eventually becoming an optics company in 1947 after originally starting out as a surveying company. From there Leupold has become one of the most recognised optics manufacturers in the world. The high-quality, made in the USA reputation of Leupold added to our excitement for checking out the MK5.
Mark 5HD Range and 5-25×56 Test Sample
The current Mark 5HD family includes 2-10×30, 3.6-18×44, 5-25×56 and 7-35×56 models. The scope tested here was a friend’s 5-25×56 with a Tremor3 reticle. I used it at varying magnifications on targets to 700 metres and also checked it as the light faded.
Construction and 35mm Main Tube
A tactical optic at this price point has to be built tough and thankfully the Leupold Mark 5HD doesn’t disappoint. The 35mm maintube is solid and gives the shooter confidence in the durability of the scope. The size of the maintube needs to be considered when purchasing rings for the optic, as it takes 35mm rings.
Glass and Low-Light Performance
Glass was the part I most wanted to assess. I ran the scope through its magnification range on targets to 700 metres and found the image clear across the field in that test. I did not see distracting edge blur, and the image retained useful detail as the light dropped.
As the sun was setting a true test of the glass was how it performed in low light. This is a feature we like to test as it truly shows how much light an optic can capture when it needs it the most. The Mark 5HD once again didn’t disappoint in its ability to remain bright. Leupold marketed this generation with its Twilight Max HD optical system. Current Mark 5HD material uses the name Professional-Grade Optical System, so buyers comparing new and used examples may see both terms.
From a hunting perspective, low light transmission is an important feature as some game animals only come lower off the mountains at dawn and dusk. This provides situations that highlight the importance of the amount of light an optic can capture.
Magnification Range and Controls
The first feature that stands out is the removable throw lever. Throw levers are a great feature to assist in quickly changing magnification. The magnification ring on the Mark 5 HD moves consistently and has a good level of resistance.
The 5-25×56 offers a great range of magnification for reaching out to long ranges and is the perfect level of magnification for our shooting needs. The optic does come in a lower-level magnification of 3.6-18×44 to suit shooters taking shots at shorter distances and those wanting a lighter weight optic.
The larger 7-35×56 magnification is truly a beast when you will be reaching out to some extremely long ranges. The higher magnification does come with some trade-offs because the weight of the optic increases.
Tremor3 Reticle and Current Options
Leupold offers the Mark 5HD in several MIL and MOA reticles, with the exact options depending on model and illumination configuration. We were using the Tremor 3 reticle which has a history of being used by multiple Precision Rifle Series champions in the US as well as a variety of military units. The Tremor 3 reticle is packed with features including time of flight wind dots, range bars and moving target holds. When considering reticle choice, remember that a less ‘busy’ reticle can be easier to identify game if the optic is being used for hunting purposes.
M5C3 Turrets and Zeroing
At this price point, the turrets are where the Mark 5HD starts gaining an advantage over some competitors. The optic offers familiar zeroing where you remove screws, move the turret to the new zero and tighten up the screws. Leupold included a feature on the elevation turret that sets it apart from the competition. There is a risk when using an optic with exposed turrets that the turret’s position could change when being carried on the shoulder. Leupold have added a button on the elevation turret that when pressed it lets the elevation setting change. The button is easy to use and is a useful feature for a rifle that gets heavy field use.
The windage turret on the Mark 5HD is covered under a threaded cap. The use of hold overs for wind is likely the reason for the windage turret being capped, as many precision rifle shooters and long-range hunters will opt for a hold over rather than click adjustments. The option however is still there for turret windage adjustments.
The zero mark for windage is also not in a traditional place, the zero is located offset above the normal spot on an optic. This gives the user an easier way to see the zero location for windage when behind the scope. The parallax adjustment is marked for 75, 100, 200, 400, 600, 800 yards to infinity.
Weight and Rifle Balance
The Leupold Mark 5HD in 5-25×56 weighs in at 30oz/850g. The relatively low weight of the optic shines through as a strength. In comparison seen below, the Mark 5HD is substantially lighter. Of course, weight isn’t a relevant factor for all shooters, however it is something to consider in combination with the weight of the rifle.
| Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 | 30oz/850g |
| Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 | 37.6oz/1066g |
| Vortex Razor Gen II 4.5-27×56 | 48.5oz/1374g |
The 3.6-18×44 weighs 26 oz/737g and the larger 7-35×56 is 33oz/935g
Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 Specifications
| Finish | Matte |
|---|---|
| Adjustable Objective | No |
| Elevation Adjustment Type | M5C3 |
| Locking Dial | Yes |
| Revolution Indicator | Yes |
| Rezero Type | Set Screw |
| Windage Adjustment Type | Capped |
| Custom Dial System (CDS) | No |
| Custom Dial Compatible | Yes |
| BDC Dial Included | No |
| Reticle Type | First Focal Plane |
| Reticle | FFP Tremor 3 |
| Magnification Type | Variable |
| Illuminated | No |
| Nightvision Compatible Illumination | No |
| Daylight Bright Illumination | No |
| Motion Sensor Technology (MST) | No |
| Electronic Reticle Level | No |
| Guard-ion Lens Coating | No |
| Weight (oz) | 30 |
| Elevation Adjustment Value per Click | 0.1Mil |
| Elevation Adjustment Range (MOA) | 120 |
| Elevation Adjustment Range (MIL) | 35 |
| Elevation Adjustment Range (cm @ 100m) | 349 |
| Elevation Adjustment Per Revolution | 10.5 MIL |
| Elevation Dial Travel Limit | 30MIL |
| Windage Adjustment Value per Click | 0.1Mil |
| Windage Adjustment Range (MOA) | 60 |
| Windage Adjustment Range (MIL) | 17 |
| Windage Adjustment Range (cm @ 100m) | 175 |
| Windage Adjustment Per Revolution | 10 MIL |
| Magnification Max | 25 |
| Magnification Min | 5 |
| Objective Lens Diameter (mm) | 56 |
| Linear FOV Low Mag (ft@100yds) | 20.4 |
| Linear FOV High Mag (ft@100yds) | 4.2 |
| Angular FOV Low Mag (Degrees) | 3.9 |
| Angular FOV High Mag (Degrees) | .8 |
| Eye Relief Low Mag (in) | 3.6 |
| Eye Relief High Mag (in) | 3.8 |
| Minimum Parallax-Free Distance (yd) | 50 |
Current model and specification checks use Leupold’s Mark 5HD product family page. Field observations remain from the 5-25×56 sample described above.
Field Verdict
The optic shines with a quality lightweight design coupled with features built for the field. The optic is a great choice for shooters looking for a long-range scope that is reliable and built for field use. For long range hunting, the weight and simple reticle options make the Mark 5HD difficult to pass up.
Strengths
- Well Made
- Durable
- Fantastic Quality Glass
- High Light Transmission
Trade-offs
- Pricey, however you can save hundreds off discounted showroom models at EuroOptic.
Leupold Mark 5HD Buyer Fit Table
The Mark 5HD 5-25×56 is a serious precision optic. It belongs on a rifle where tracking, reticle choice, usable elevation and weight all make sense for long-range work.
| Use | Fit | Decision point |
|---|---|---|
| PRS or long-range range rifle | Strong fit | Reticle choice, M5C3 controls and 35mm ring setup. |
| Hunting rifle | Compare carefully | Weight and objective size may be too much. |
| Budget build | Compare value | The optic may cost more than the rifle. |
Compare it with the best rifle scopes, scope rings and precision rifle guide.
FAQ
Is the Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 worth it?
Yes, particularly for a shooter who values a 30oz scope, the locking M5C3 elevation control, capped windage and strong low-light performance. The main checks are whether the available reticle suits your use, whether you already have 35mm rings, and whether those advantages justify the premium price.
PRECISIONRIFLE