Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 PR2-MIL FFP Scope

The Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 is a first focal plane riflescope built around a straightforward MIL-based adjustment system.

It combines the PR2-MIL reticle with M5C3 elevation adjustments, so the reticle and turret use the same MIL measurement system. As a result, the numbers stay easy to follow without mixing MIL and MOA values.

The scope also uses a 35mm maintube, 44mm objective lens and a 5:1 zoom range. In addition, the non-illuminated design keeps the controls simple.

Leupold lists this model at approximately 26 ounces, which keeps the Mark 5HD relatively light for its size and adjustment range.

Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 Magnification

The Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 provides magnification from 3.6x to 18x.

At the lower end, the wider field of view makes it easier to see more of the surrounding area. Meanwhile, the higher end provides a closer view of distant targets.

This gives the scope a useful range without making the magnification system complicated.

The field of view measures approximately 28.3 feet at 100 yards on 3.6x and 5.8 feet at 100 yards on 18x. Leupold confirms both figures in its current specifications.

PR2-MIL First Focal Plane Reticle

The scope uses a PR2-MIL first focal plane reticle.

Because the reticle sits in the first focal plane, its markings scale with the image as you change magnification.

Therefore, the MIL references remain proportional throughout the magnification range.

The reticle does not use illumination on this version. That keeps the setup straightforward for users who prefer a traditional etched reticle without electronic controls.

M5C3 ZeroLock Adjustment System

Leupold equips this Mark 5HD with the M5C3 elevation dial.

The turret adjusts in 0.1 MIL clicks and provides up to 29 MIL of total elevation adjustment.

In addition, the system offers three revolutions of elevation travel.

The ZeroLock feature helps prevent unwanted movement of the elevation dial. Meanwhile, the revolution indicator helps the user keep track of the turret position.

Leupold lists 10.5 MIL of elevation adjustment per revolution for this model.

ZeroStop and Easy Return to Zero

The elevation system also provides a clear zero reference.

Once properly set according to the manufacturer’s instructions, the system gives the user a firm stopping point when returning the dial to its zero position.

This helps make the turret easier to keep track of after making adjustments.

In addition, the locking system helps reduce accidental changes while carrying or handling the scope.

Leupold Mark 5HD PR2-MIL System

The PR2-MIL reticle and M5C3 adjustments both use MIL measurements.

That means the reticle markings and turret clicks work in the same measurement system.

For example, the elevation dial moves in 0.1 MIL steps rather than converting between different units.

As a result, the overall layout stays easier to understand for someone who already works with MIL-based optics.

35mm Maintube

The Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 uses a 35mm main tube.

Therefore, the scope requires rings or a mount made for a 35mm tube.

This is important because standard 30mm or 1-inch scope rings will not fit correctly.

The 35mm tube also gives the scope room for its broad adjustment range while keeping the body relatively compact.

Leupold lists the total scope length at approximately 12.1 inches.

Side Focus and Parallax Adjustment

A side-focus control allows the user to adjust parallax.

Leupold lists the minimum parallax-free distance at approximately 50 yards.

The side control keeps this adjustment within easy reach without adding a front adjustable objective.

This setup also helps the reticle and target image appear more stable at different viewing distances when the focus is set correctly.

44mm Objective Lens

The Mark 5HD uses a 44mm objective lens.

The 44mm size provides a useful balance between overall scope size and light gathering.

In addition, it allows the scope to remain more compact than many riflescopes with much larger objective bells.

The objective diameter also works well with the 3.6-18x magnification range without making the front of the scope unnecessarily large.

Leupold Optical System

Leupold uses its optical system to manage light transmission, clarity and glare.

Instead of filling the description with exaggerated claims, the important point is simple: the scope aims to keep the image clear across changing outdoor light conditions.

Leupold also seals the Mark 5HD against water and internal fogging.

Therefore, the scope can handle changing weather and temperature conditions when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Eye Relief

Eye relief ranges from approximately 3.5 to 3.8 inches depending on magnification.

Leupold lists 3.5 inches at low magnification and 3.8 inches at high magnification for this model.

This gives the shooter some room to position the scope correctly on the rifle.

However, mounting position still depends on the rifle, stock, rings and the user’s natural head position.

Windage Adjustment

The windage adjustment also uses 0.1 MIL clicks.

Leupold provides approximately 23 MIL of total windage travel.

In addition, the windage turret uses a capped design. Therefore, once the desired setting is established, the cap helps protect it from accidental movement.

Leupold lists 10 MIL per revolution for the windage adjustment.

Lightweight Mark 5HD Design

The scope weighs approximately 26 ounces.

That is relatively light considering the 35mm tube, 18x maximum magnification and large adjustment range.

Leupold also describes the Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 as being considerably lighter than many scopes in the same general class.

The shorter 12.1-inch overall length further helps keep the setup from feeling unnecessarily bulky.