RiflescopeLeupold OpticsSold by Altitude Outdoors

Leupold Optics

Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-15x40 Side Focus CDS-ZL Wind-Plex

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

Leupold Vx-3hd

4.5-15x magnification for close and

Side Focus

Design for easier range adjustment

Wind-plex Reticle

Supports precise windage holds

Cds-zl Elevation

Turret allows MOA adjustments for

Ultralight, Low-profile

Scope profile

$749.99
View on Altitude Outdoors

You'll be taken to Altitude Outdoors to complete your purchase.

Hunter's Outpost earns a commission from affiliate links at no extra cost to you.

SKU: leupold-vx-3hd-4-5-15x40-side-focus-cds-zl2-wind-plex

Overview

Built for hunters who want a compact optic that still covers both close and extended shots, this scope pairs a versatile magnification range with side focus for dialing in distance. The Wind-Plex reticle is suited to practical wind holds, while the CDS-ZL elevation turret is designed for MOA adjustments across changing ranges. At 16 ounces, it keeps the setup relatively light and low profile without adding unnecessary bulk. It’s a straightforward choice for rifles that need one optic to handle varied field conditions and shot distances.

Why Hunters Choose the Leupold Optics

4.5-15x Magnification

Range supports both close shots

Side Focus

Helps refine image focus for

Wind-plex Reticle

Clear windage hold references

Cds-zl Elevation

Turret allows MOA adjustments for

16 Oz.

Weight keeps the scope relatively

Key Features

  • Leupold VX-3HD scope with 4.5-15x magnification for close and longer shots.
  • Side focus design for easier range adjustment.
  • Wind-Plex reticle supports precise windage holds.
  • CDS-ZL elevation turret allows MOA adjustments for range changes.
  • Ultralight, low-profile scope profile.
  • 16 oz. weight with 75 MOA elevation adjustment range.

Best Used For

  • Hunters wanting a low-profile scope for quick shots in close cover and longer shots at distance
  • Shooters who prefer side focus for adjusting parallax at varied hunting ranges
  • Users needing precise windage holds with the Wind-Plex reticle in changing conditions
  • Hunters who want MOA elevation adjustments for dialing ranges without a bulky optic

Specifications

Elevation Adjustment Range Moa75
Magnification4.5-14x
Objective Lens Diameter40 mm
ReticleWind-Plex
Side FocusYes
TurretCDS-ZL
Weight16 oz

Pros

  • 4.5-15x magnification range supports both close shots and longer-distance opportunities.
  • Side focus helps refine image focus for more precise aiming.
  • Wind-Plex reticle provides clear windage hold references.
  • CDS-ZL elevation turret allows MOA adjustments for different ranges.
  • 16 oz. weight keeps the scope relatively light for field carry.

Considerations & Trade-offs

  • The 4.5-15x magnification range is versatile, but it is not a true low-power optic for very close work.
  • The Wind-Plex reticle is built for windage holds, which may suit some hunting styles better than a simpler aiming point.
  • The CDS-ZL elevation turret is designed for MOA adjustments, so it adds dialing capability that may be more than some hunters want on a straightforward field rifle.
  • At 16 oz., it is relatively light for its class, but buyers prioritizing the absolute lightest setup may still want to compare total rifle weight once mounted.

Suggested Comparisons

  • Variable-power rifle scopes
  • Side-focus hunting scopes
  • Lightweight low-profile optics
  • MOA-adjustable scopes

Suggested Accessories

  • Rifle scope rings
  • Scope base
  • Lens cleaning kit
  • Flip-up scope caps

Frequently Asked Questions

What magnification range does this scope offer for hunting use?

The VX-3HD is listed with 4.5-15x magnification in the title, and the long description describes it as having a 3x magnification range for both short, quick shots and longer shots when needed.

Does this scope have side focus?

Yes. Side Focus is listed in the product title and in the features section of the long description.

What reticle does this model use?

This model uses the Wind-Plex reticle, which the description says is intended for precise windage holds.

What does the CDS-ZL turret system provide?

The product title identifies the CDS-ZL system, and the long description says the ZL elevation turret keeps you set to make MOA adjustments for any range. No further details are provided in the source data.

What specifications are provided for this scope?

The provided specifications list a weight of 16 oz and an elevation adjustment range of 75 MOA. The long description also lists Side Focus. Other details such as tube size, objective lens specifics beyond the title, and construction materials are not provided in the source data.