2024 Editor’s Choice Award Winning Leupold Mark 4HD 2.5-10×42

Leupold Mark 4HD 2.5-10×42

A top-tier optic with a mid-tier price

Leupold set out to design a more affordable line of scopes with the same high level of optical quality and performance of the Mark 5HD line, and the result is the new 2024 On Target Editors’ Choice Award-winning Mark 4HD, a top-tier optic with a mid-tier price.

Mark 4HD scopes are offered in a wide variety of configurations, ranging from a 1-4.5×24 LPVO to a 8-32×56 model. The model we tested, the Mark 4HD 2.5-10×42, is a first focal plane design. Some Mark 4HD models have parallax adjustment, push-button illumination, and electronic reticle leveling. Our test scope had none of these extras, as it was clearly designed to be a simple, rugged, and lightweight scope. It also has an MSRP of just $999.99, which is $1,000 less than a comparable Mark 5HD and about $600 less than the most expensive Mark 4HD models.

Mark 4HD scopes are available with either MOA or mil turrets and reticles, and a zero-stop function on the elevation dial makes it quick and easy to spin back to your zero after dialing in compensation. All variations come with a removable throw lever attached to the magnification dial. Leupold has long been known for producing some of the clearest glass ever fitted to a riflescope, and the Mark 4HD line carries this torch well.

Unlike the older Mark 4 line, which used mil-dot reticles, our Mark 4HD test scope TMR reticle has hash marks for more precise aiming. The stadia provide plenty of aim points for holdover and holdoff shooting if you have to make a shot quickly or don’t want to dial corrections. Mark 4HD scopes are available with either MOA or mil turrets and reticles. Clicks are crisp, with no mushiness, and provide tactile and audible feedback. The power selector ring turns smoothly, and has a removable throw lever. A zero-stop function makes it easy to spin back to zero after dialing in compensation.

Tested on a custom Aero Precision chambered in 223 Wylde, the Mark 4HD exhibited crystal-clear glass, generous eye relief, easy-to-use adjustments, repeatable precision, and reliable durability. Pair all of this with a that-didn’t-hurt-too-much price tag, and the Mark 4HD is a win-win in all categories.

“HD” means high definition, and it’s an apt description of Leupold’s glass and lens coatings. To my eye, light transmission, color rendition, and edge-to-edge clarity were excellent, and on par with an outstanding Leupold VX-5HD scope I compared it to. The scope has ample eye relief of 3.6 inches at low magnification and 3.9 inches at high magnification.

It takes more than an accurate rifle to achieve great results. It takes a good optic, with precise and repeatable adjustments, that produces a clear and sharp view. The Mark 4HD delivers on all counts. Like all Leupold scopes, it is waterproof, fogproof, and backed by a lifetime guarantee. For more information, contact Leupold; Tel.: (800) 538-7653; Web: www.leupold.comMike Dickerson