Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 PR1-MOA FFP Scope

The Leupold Mark 5HD PR1-MOA combines a 3.6-18x magnification range with a first focal plane MOA reticle and matching M1C3 adjustments.

Both the reticle and turret system use MOA measurements. Therefore, users who already work in MOA can keep the same measurement system throughout the optic.

The scope also uses a 35mm maintube, 44mm objective lens and side-focus adjustment. In addition, its approximately 26 oz weight keeps the optic fairly light for a first focal plane scope with this adjustment range.

The non-illuminated configuration also means there is no battery or brightness control to manage.

Leupold Mark 5HD PR1-MOA Magnification

The Leupold Mark 5HD PR1-MOA provides magnification from 3.6x to 18x.

At 3.6x, the scope gives you a wider view of the area around the target. Meanwhile, increasing magnification brings smaller details closer.

The 5:1 zoom ratio means the high setting provides five times the magnification of the low setting.

Field of view measures approximately 28.3 feet at 100 yards on 3.6x and 5.8 feet at 100 yards on 18x.

PR1-MOA First Focal Plane Reticle

The PR1-MOA reticle sits in the first focal plane.

Therefore, the reticle changes apparent size together with the target image as magnification changes.

Its MOA references stay proportional through the full magnification range. As a result, the reticle’s measurement system does not depend on using only one magnification setting.

This gives the scope a straightforward MOA-based layout across the full 3.6-18x range.

PR1-MOA Reticle Layout

The PR1-MOA uses a detailed MOA-based reticle with references arranged around the central aiming point.

The design provides 1 MOA increments and up to 40 MOA of measurement in each direction within the reticle layout described for this version.

This gives the reticle more reference information than a basic duplex-style crosshair.

At the same time, the layout remains centered on MOA measurements, which keeps it consistent with the M1C3 turret.

MOA Reticle and Turret System

The reticle and adjustment system both work in MOA.

Each turret click equals 1/4 MOA.

Therefore, four clicks equal one full MOA.

For users who already understand MOA, this keeps the optic simple because there is no need to convert between MIL and MOA measurements.

M1C3 Elevation Turret

Leupold equips this Mark 5HD with the M1C3 elevation adjustment.

Each click equals 1/4 MOA, while the dial works across multiple revolutions.

A visual and tactile revolution indicator helps show where the elevation turret sits within its travel.

Therefore, larger adjustments remain easier to keep track of than they would be with a turret that gives no revolution reference.

100 MOA Total Elevation Adjustment

The scope provides approximately 100 MOA of total mechanical elevation adjustment.

However, the M1C3 elevation dial has a separate travel-limit figure of approximately 71.5 MOA.

These figures describe different parts of the system:

• 100 MOA — total elevation adjustment range
• 71.5 MOA — elevation dial travel limit
• 1/4 MOA — adjustment value per click

Keeping these numbers separate makes the specification table easier for visitors to understand.

ZeroLock System

The ZeroLock system helps prevent unwanted elevation dial movement.

When the turret sits at the desired setting, the locking design helps keep it in position during normal handling.

As a result, the dial is less likely to move accidentally while carrying or storing the equipment.

The system works mechanically, so it does not require electronics or a battery.

ZeroStop Function

The M1C3 turret also provides a clear stop when returning to the established zero.

Once the system is set correctly, the dial reaches a firm stopping point.

Therefore, the user can identify the original zero position without continuing to rotate past it.

ZeroLock and the return-to-zero feature work together to keep the elevation system straightforward.

Windage Adjustment

Windage also uses 1/4 MOA clicks.

The scope provides approximately 80 MOA of total windage adjustment.

Unlike the exposed elevation turret, the windage adjustment uses a cap.

Therefore, the cap helps protect the windage setting from unwanted movement during normal handling.

Leupold Mark 5HD PR1-MOA 35mm Tube

The Leupold Mark 5HD PR1-MOA uses a 35mm maintube.

Therefore, the optic requires rings or a one-piece mount made specifically for a 35mm scope tube.

Standard 30mm or 1-inch rings will not fit correctly.

The 35mm body also provides room for the broad internal adjustment system used by the Mark 5HD.

44mm Objective Lens

The scope uses a 44mm objective lens.

This size keeps the front of the optic reasonably compact while working well with the 3.6-18x magnification range.

In addition, it avoids some of the additional bulk associated with larger 50mm and 56mm objective lenses.

The result is a balanced overall size for an 18x first focal plane scope.

Precision Side Focus

The Mark 5HD includes a side-focus adjustment.

Parallax adjustment begins at approximately 50 yards.

Therefore, the user can adjust the optical system for different viewing distances without turning the front objective.

The side placement also keeps the control within easy reach.

Parallax Adjustment

Correct side-focus adjustment helps keep the target image and reticle visually stable when the user’s eye position changes slightly.

Therefore, the control can help provide a cleaner sight picture at different distances.

The important point is to adjust the side focus for the actual viewing distance rather than leaving it permanently in one position.

Eye Relief

Eye relief measures approximately 3.5 to 3.8 inches across the magnification range.

This gives some flexibility when positioning the scope.

However, final placement depends on the rifle, stock, mount and the user’s natural head position.

Check the sight picture at both lower and higher magnification before finalizing the mounting position.

Field of View

At 3.6x, the scope provides approximately 28.3 feet of field of view at 100 yards.

At 18x, the field of view narrows to approximately 5.8 feet at 100 yards.

This is normal because increasing magnification shows a smaller section of the overall scene.

Therefore, lower magnification gives a wider view, while higher magnification brings smaller details closer.

Non-Illuminated PR1-MOA Reticle

This PR1-MOA version does not use reticle illumination.

Therefore, there is no reticle battery to replace.

There is also no brightness control or illumination dial.

For users who prefer an etched MOA reticle without electronic controls, this keeps the setup simple.

No Battery Required

Because the PR1-MOA reticle is non-illuminated, the scope works without a battery.

The etched reticle remains part of the optical system at all times.

Therefore, battery condition does not affect whether the reticle remains visible under normal lighting.

This also helps distinguish this model from illuminated Mark 5HD configurations.

Lightweight Mark 5HD Design

The scope weighs approximately 26 ounces.

That keeps it relatively light considering the 35mm tube, 18x maximum magnification and wide adjustment range.

Leupold also describes the Mark 5HD platform as substantially lighter than many larger optics in the same general class.

The lighter build helps keep the overall setup from becoming unnecessarily bulky.

Leupold Optical System

Leupold builds the Mark 5HD optical system around image clarity, light transmission and glare control.

In simple terms, the system aims to maintain a useful sight picture when outdoor lighting changes.

The 44mm objective and 3.6-18x magnification range also provide a practical balance between optical size and magnification.

Rather than relying on exaggerated wording, the important details remain the optical range, reticle and adjustment system.

Waterproof and Fogproof Construction

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

Therefore, changing weather and temperature should not normally lead to moisture inside the optical system when the scope remains in proper condition.

The sealed construction also helps protect the internal components during normal outdoor use.

Follow Leupold’s cleaning instructions when maintaining the lenses and exterior.