By: Johnny Mack
Instagram: @soulseekersnation
Growing up, I was constantly reminded of what Proverbs 29:18 KJV says about vision and the importance of being able to see clearly. For those of you who might be a bit cloudy on what it says, let me help you. It says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” For some, you might miss the connection between this verse and a riflescope, but let me explain.
Clear vision is a key component to being able to spot one’s quarry and take a shot. A lack of vision and especially clear vision, can lead to unfilled tags and missed opportunities. In my house, we rely heavily on wild game protein in order to sustain us. So when, I allow tags to go unfilled, I am doing my family a disservice. That is why I prefer to use the highest quality optics that I can afford to support me on my pursuits. I believe in the saying, “buy once, cry once.” And even though the new Mark 4 lineup of scopes still carries a higher price tag, that doesn’t mean the value is not there. Let’s dive into my experience with this scope and why I recommend it.
About Leupold
Leupold’s core values are to be bold, be tenacious and be relentless. This is not just a motto for them, as they strive to release the best optics while backing their products with their unwavering lifetime guarantee. Their guarantee reminds me of the the movie Tommy Boy, where a guarantee is only as good as the product it backs (Tommy Boy scene for reference). I have had to warranty multiple other companies optics during my tenure as a hunter/shooter, but never a Leupold. Maybe that is just random luck, or maybe because they make a superior product that rarely has any issues. Either way, they continue to lead with their relentless craftsmanship and why they say their lifetime guarantee is “the best warranty you’ll never use!”
About the Mark 4HD
Some might question Leupold’s decision to come out with their Mark 4 lineup as something of an oddity, as their standard 5:1 magnification range of the Mark 5 lineup is stellar. After diving into the Mark 4, what I have realized is that this new lineup of scopes offers their top tier glass of the Mark 5 lineup but at a less expensive price point, and they accomplish this by adjusting some of the features, starting with a 4:1 magnification range.
A few other features that the Mark 4HD line is missing compared to the Mark 5 line, which allow the price to be lowered is the fact that the entire Mark 5HD lineup are FFP (front focal plane) scopes while the Mark 4HD lineup is mixed with second and first focal planes. The Mark 4HD lineup also comes with either a 34mm or 30mm maintube while the Mark 5HD comes standard with a 35mm maintube design. Lastly, the low end magnification on most Mark 4HD’s start higher than some might like (ie. Mark 4HD comes with a 6-24 magnification range vs. Mark 5HD is a 5-25 magnification range).
Regardless of what the Mark 4HD’s do not have, they make up for in price and the same optical clarity and features every hunter and shooter needs. On top of that all Leupold scopes are backed by a warranty that chances are you will never have to use. This is why I can recommend the Mark 4HD without hesitation.
Pros
- The optical clarity is great
- I love the PR1 reticle especially for hunting
- Locking elevation turret with zero-stop
- Ocular and parallax adjustments are tight and smooth
- You save $600 vs 3.6-18×44 Mark 5HD
- Looks amazing on your weapon and in pictures
- Removable throw lever is a great addition
cons
- It has a heavier feel even though it is only 1 oz. heavier than the comparable Mark 5HD
- Doesn’t offer zero-stop on windage turret on this model – For me, not that big off a deal (it is available in different models)
- The low end magnification or magnification range can be an issue for some
details
- MSRP $1,399.99
- Weight – 27 oz.
- Total Length – 14.6 in.
- Magnification – Variable 4:1 Power
- Maintube – 34mm
- Field of View @ 100 yds – 23.1 ft. – 5.2 ft. (depending upon magnification)
- Eye Relief – 3.6 – 3.9 in. (depending upon magnification)
- Adjustment Graduation – 1/4 MOA
- Elevation Travel per Rotation – 25 MOA
- Max Elevation Adjustment – 71.5 MOA
- Max Windage Adjustment – 65 MOA
- Parallel Adjustment – 25 yards to Infinity
your next Rifle Scope
When shopping for your next riflescope, keep the Leupold Mark 4HD at the top of the list. The combination of optical clarity and top notch features combined with the FFP reticle and price are hard to pass up.
Thanks for reading this gear review. If you want to know more about the Mark 4HD and my experience with it, feel free to ask by clicking here. In the meantime make sure to check out our PODCAST and show SOUL SEEKERS on CarbonTV as well as follow us on Instagram @soulseekersnation. Knowledge is power and MENTORSHIP IS CONSERVATION. Stay soulful!