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Leupold Optics

Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40 CDS-ZL Duplex

Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.

Leupold Vx-3hd

4.5-14x magnification and 40mm objective

Ultralight, Low-profile

Design for a compact rifle

Wind-plex Reticle

Supports precise windage holds

Zl Elevation

Turret is set up for

1-inch Tube

Construction

$599.99
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SKU: leupold-vx-3hd-4-5-14x40-cds-zl-duplex

Overview

Built for hunters who want a compact optic that still covers a useful magnification range, this scope is suited to everything from close-in shots to longer opportunities when conditions call for more reach. The Wind-plex reticle supports deliberate windage holds, while the CDS-ZL elevation turret is designed for MOA adjustments across varying distances. With a 1-inch tube and a 13 oz. listed weight, it keeps the profile restrained for rifles where balance and carry comfort matter. It is a practical choice for hunters who value straightforward dialing and a clean sight picture without unnecessary bulk.

Why Hunters Choose the Leupold Optics

Ultralight, Low-profile

Scope design suits streamlined hunting

4.5-14x Magnification

Covers quick close shots and

Wind-plex Reticle

Supports precise windage holds

Cds-zl Elevation

Turret allows MOA adjustments for

13-ounce Weight

Keeps added bulk to a

Key Features

  • Leupold VX-3HD scope with 4.5-14x magnification and 40mm objective lens.
  • Ultralight, low-profile design for a compact rifle setup.
  • Wind-plex reticle supports precise windage holds.
  • ZL elevation turret is set up for MOA adjustments at range.
  • 1-inch tube construction.
  • Weighs 13 oz. with 75 MOA elevation adjustment range.

Best Used For

  • Hunters wanting a low-profile scope for rifles carried all day in the field
  • Users who need 4.5-14x magnification for both close and longer shots
  • Hunters making MOA elevation adjustments with the CDS-ZL turret system
  • Shooters who want precise windage holds using the Wind-plex reticle

Specifications

Elevation Adjustment Range Moa75
Long DescriptionIf you&';re looking for an ultralight, low profile scope that delivers Leupold&';s legendary performance the vx3-HD is on our short list. The 3x magnification range allows for short quick shots, or allows you to reach out and make the longer shots when needed. The Wind-plex reticle allows for precise windage holds, and the ZL elevation turret keeps you set to make MOA adjustments for any range. Features: Weight: 13 oz. Elevation Adjustment Range (MOA): 75 Magnification: 4.5-14x 1 inch Tube
Magnification4.5-14x
Objective Lens Diameter40
ReticleDuplex
Short DescriptionIf you&';re looking for an ultralight, low profile sco...
Tube Size1 inch
Turret TypeCDS-ZL
Weight13 oz.
Windage HoldsWind-plex reticle

Pros

  • Ultralight, low-profile scope design suits streamlined hunting rifle setups.
  • 4.5-14x magnification covers quick close shots and longer-range opportunities.
  • Wind-plex reticle supports precise windage holds.
  • CDS-ZL elevation turret allows MOA adjustments for varying distances.
  • 13-ounce weight keeps added bulk to a minimum.
  • 1-inch tube offers a compact profile for field use.

Considerations & Trade-offs

  • The 4.5-14x magnification range is versatile, but it is still a 3x zoom scope rather than a wider-range optic for hunters who want more flexibility across very different distances.
  • The 1-inch tube keeps the profile compact, but it also means the scope is built around a more traditional tube size rather than a larger-diameter setup.
  • The Wind-plex reticle supports windage holds, but it is a simpler reticle style than more feature-heavy options for shooters who prefer additional aiming references.
  • The CDS-ZL elevation turret is designed for MOA adjustments, so it suits hunters who are comfortable dialing rather than those looking for a set-and-forget setup.

Suggested Comparisons

  • Variable-power hunting scopes
  • Fixed-power hunting scopes
  • Compact rifle scopes
  • Long-range rifle scopes

Suggested Accessories

  • Rifle scope rings
  • Scope cover
  • Lens cleaning kit
  • Rifle sling

Frequently Asked Questions

What magnification range does the Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40 CDS-ZL Duplex offer?

It has a 4.5-14x magnification range, giving you flexibility for closer shots and longer shots when needed.

Does this scope include a turret for elevation adjustments?

Yes. The description says it uses a ZL elevation turret, and the listed elevation adjustment range is 75 MOA.

What reticle is included with this scope?

The long description lists a Wind-plex reticle for windage holds. The product title also includes Duplex, so the provided data references both Wind-plex and Duplex, but does not explain the difference.

How heavy is the VX-3HD 4.5-14x40 CDS-ZL Duplex?

The listed weight is 13 oz.

What tube size does this scope use?

It uses a 1 inch tube.