A Legacy of Precision and Performance

Since its debut in 2018, the Leupold Mark 5HD has become a staple in the precision shooting community. Known for its class-leading optical clarity, rugged durability, and intuitive design, it’s a scope trusted by professionals, competitors, and recreational shooters alike. Whether performing downrange or helping shooters reach the podium at NRL Hunter and PRS matches, the Mark 5HD continues to set the standard for modern precision optics.

Our team at Core Vision Training is going to break it down.

A Heritage of Innovation

The Mark 5HD wasn’t built overnight—it’s the result of decades of innovation and field-proven experience. Leupold was the first company to engineer a precision scope with tactical features.

In the mid-1980s, the U.S. Army approached Leupold with a challenge: build a “jump-proof precision rifle scope” capable of surviving a helicopter drop or airborne deployment while maintaining perfect performance.

The result was the Leupold ULTRA, a rugged optic that exceeded every expectation. The ULTRA laid the foundation for the legendary Mark 4 line—a family of scopes that served militaries and law enforcement worldwide.

From Mark 4 to Mark 5HD

Through the ’90s, 2000s, and into the 2010s, the Mark 4 earned its place in nearly every theater of operation worldwide. By 2015, modern shooters demanded more—better optics, longer adjustment travel, and advanced usability features.

Rather than design around a military contract, Leupold focused on building the best precision rifle scope possible—without compromise. That approach led to the Mark 5HD, a scope that delivers everything shooters demand and nothing they don’t.

After its release, it was clear Leupold made the right decision:

“Even after almost 8 years, it’s still the top choice for professionals, competitors, and recreational shooters alike.”
— Nic Kytlica, Product Line Manager

Battlefield-Proven and Competition-Ready

The Mark 5HD quickly drew attention from both competitive and military circles. It was selected for the U.S. Army’s MK22 Sniper Rifle Program (Mark 5HD 7-35x56) and the M110 upgrade contract (Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44), demonstrating its reliability and precision under demanding conditions.

Key Features of the Mark 5HD

5:1 Zoom Ratio – Offers versatility across magnification ranges, balancing magnification and field of view.
Professional-Grade Optical System – Exceptional light transmission, glare reduction, and resolution in challenging conditions.
1/10 MIL or 1/4 MOA Adjustments – Precise, repeatable windage and elevation control.
Motion Sensor Technology (MST™) – Extends battery life by automatically deactivating illuminated reticles after five minutes of inactivity.
Integrated Throw Lever – Low-profile design enables quick magnification changes.
35mm Maintube – Provides ample adjustment travel, ideal for long-range shooting.
Waterproof, Fogproof, & Shockproof – Performs in extreme environments, keeping optics clear and functional.
ZeroLock® Adjustment Dials (M5C3 or M1C3) – Prevents accidental adjustments and ensures a reliable return to zero.

A Scope Built for the Best

The Leupold Mark 5HD is more than an optic—it’s the culmination of nearly four decades of precision engineering, field testing, and feedback from the world’s most demanding shooters. Whether chasing the next competition title, training for the long shot, or relying on your gear in the field, the Mark 5HD is built to deliver every time.

Elevate Your Setup with Zero Gravity Summit Mounts

To maximize the performance of your Leupold Mark 5HD, consider pairing it with a Zero Gravity Summit Scope Mount. Engineered from 7075-T651 aluminum, these mounts offer:

360-Degree Contact – Double-hinged, keyed scope rings provide uniform pressure around the scope tube, eliminating distortion common in standard split-cap designs.
Secure Attachment – Flush-mount rail clamps with recoil lugs ensure a stable and repeatable attachment to your rifle, even under heavy recoil.
Precision Alignment – The three-piece clamp design allows for streamlined setup, keeping your scope and reticle level without shifting during installation.
Durability – Heli-Coil screw-lock inserts eliminate the need for thread locker, providing a lifetime of trouble-free use.

For more information or to explore the range of Summit mounts, visit Zero Gravity's official website — use code CVT10 for 10% off.

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The Leupold Mark 5HD