Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Hunting Optics LEUPOLD VX-6 vs VX-6HD or VX--5HD

I'm curious if the newer VX-5HD and VX-6HD are better than the VX-6 or do some consider the VX-6 to be better somehow. Are the optics on the 5HD better than the VX-6 or the same? Do the plex reticles look the same in all three or are the newer models wider? Seems like I see VX-6 still selling for good chunk of money even though it's discontinued.

I have not seen the VX-5HD yet, but I have spent a lot of time with the VX-6HD and it is better than the original VX-6. It is not a huge difference, but the contrast is a little better and low light performance is a little better (I am looking at the 3-18x44 model). I also really like the elevation turret. It tracks true and locks at zero.

ILya

Can't speak to the VX-6HD, but I can about the VX-6 and VX-5HD. I have a VX-6, 2-12x42 Duplex and a VX-5HD 3-15x44, WindPlex.

IMHO, the VX-5HD is sharper edge to edge than the VX-6 across comparable power settings. The VX-6 is no slouch though. My method of determination, while crude to an extent, was to set a grid with 1/2" squares at a measured 100yds. Looking through each scope, My first look thru each was strictly on the edges - top, bottom, left and right. The VX-5HD edges (no pun intended) out the VX-6 by only the slightest. The VX-6 exhibited a touch, and I mean a touch - like a RCH - of distortion on the edges. This distortion was noted by the ever so slight curvature of the grid lines.

Both have turrets that track true and zero locks. I do like the 2 revolution zero lock feature of teh VX-5HD and may send my VX-6 in for a retrofit. The VX-5HD WindPlex reticle is definitely thicker than the Duplex in the VX-6.

I would balk if someone were to hand me one or the other - for free!

WiFowler-

How was perceived transmission/brightness in low lighting between the two? Did either have an edge in resolution, color rendition, etc. when the lighting was poor? Thanks in advance...

Bobby, my 'tests' were done in mid-morning daylight, on bright day. I have it in mind to check low light brightness, et al, but just haven't managed as of yet. Will report back when I do.

Sounds good . I look forward to it.

I just got a VX6HD 2x12 and have ordered a VX6HD 3x18.
I will build a 6.5-06 and 7mmRM before October for my deer and elk tags.

There is a kit that can come with the VX6:
Magnetic lens covers
Shade extension
Scope cover.

If the prices seems too low, the kit may not be part of the deal.

My HD5 was way brighter than my VX-6, side by side at same power, both 44mm I believe.