If you want the best scope for 45-70 lever-action rifles this is the guide for you. Investing in a good-quality scope from a reputable brand guarantees good value for money. Leupold needs no introduction as it’s a household name in the shooting arena.
Today, we are going to take a look at some of the best Leupold scopes for 45-70. These scopes have an excellent reputation for intuitive accuracy adjustments and high-quality optics that offer excellent image quality.
What Makes a Great 45-70 Scope?
Several attributes set apart 45-70 scopes from ordinary riflescopes. This cartridge generates a lot of recoil making long eye relief a vital ingredient of a 45-70 scope. With a long eye relief, you won’t get scoped.
The other defining feature is solid construction. As mentioned, 45-70 rifles produce recoil and the vibration can damage the components of a riflescope that isn’t built to withstand the recoil. More so a rugged scope won’t lose zero even after firing many rounds.
Shockproofing capabilities aren’t the only construction feature to pay attention to. The best 45-70 scopes should be made of high-quality materials, purged with dry gases and completely sealed to lock out moisture for weather-tight performance across different climatic conditions.
The 45-70 Government is a centerfire cartridge and lever-action rifle users need a simple reticle. When choosing a scope there is no need for sophisticated reticles, a plain duplex reticle is more than enough. However, long-range shooters have the exception of getting BDC reticles.
Lastly, the 45-70 cartridge is widely used in close-range and mid-range shooting applications. This calls for low power as it allows speedy target acquisition. At the distances, there are no adjustments of wind drift or elevation allowing you to take the shots faster. This is particularly important when hunting a dangerous game that can charge on you if it notices you first.
8 Best Leupold Scopes for 45-70
Leupold offers a wide array of scopes and choosing the best model for 45-70 is not an easy task. You have to go through the reviews of each model which can be a daunting task. But we are here to help.
In this review, we have gone for the best Leupold scopes for 45-70 available on the market today. These scopes will enhance your performance in different applications and help you achieve greater shooting accuracy.
Without wasting any further time, let’s get started.
1) Leupold FX-II Ultralight 2.5x20mm Rifle Scope
Leupold FX-II Ultralight 2.5x20mm Rifle Scope brings to the table the high optical power needed for close-range shooting applications. It offers relentless performance to help you get the most out of your 45-70. As one of the best Leupold scopes for 45-70, FX-II Ultralight 2.5×20 is highly versatile and an ideal choice for scout rifles, lever-action rifles and more.
One of the things that makes this rifle scope stand out is its durable construction. It has a 1-inch main tube housing made from high-strength aluminum. It is also impact tested and verified to survive shock, impacts and heavy recoil.
The shock and vibration resistance cements FX-II Ultralight 2.5×20 name among the best Leupold scopes for 45-70. Additionally, it is sealed and filled with a proprietary gas blend to offer a lifetime of waterproof and fog-proof performance.
This scope is an ideal choice for hunting in low-light settings. It boasts a Twilight Max Light Management System which let you see bright, clear and color-accurate image views in a wider variety of both low and bright lighting conditions.
This system also provides an additional 20 minutes of shooting light in poor light settings. To top it all, the scope also has an ultralight design for enhanced portability.
Features
- 100% waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- Twilight Max Light Management System
- Wide duplex reticle
- Fixed 2.5x magnification
- Matte finish
- 1-inch main tube
Pros
- Ultralight design
- Index-matched lens systems
- Ultra-long eye relief
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
2) Leupold VX-5HD 1-5x24mm Rifle Scope
This VX-5HD scope is a top contender among the best Leupold scopes for 45-70 and an ideal option for close and mid-range hunting. At close ranges, it provides a wide field of view while increasing situation awareness with the 1x magnification. It also brings distant targets closer for greater shooting accuracy with the 5x magnification power.
With this rifle scope, you get unmatched durability. It is 100% waterproof and fogproof for use in all weather conditions. In terms of construction, it is made with high-quality materials and punisher tested to withstand shock and survive harsh impacts and heavy recoil.
It also has a Guard-ion rain-shedding coating which is durable, scratch resistant, and sheds dirt, oil, water and fingerprints. Moreover, the scope brings to the table a generous eye box that aids in quick target acquisition and a lightweight design that enhances portability.
VX-5HD 1-5×24 rifle scope also boasts high-quality glass which provides high-quality images and a Twilight Max Light Management System which let you see brighter, vivid and more natural images even in low light settings.
Features
- 30mm main tube
- Versatile 5:1 zoom ratio
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Guard-ion rain shedding coating
- Pop-up Rezero adjustments
- Twilight Max Light Management System
- Twin Bias Spring Erector System
Pros
- Wide field of view
- Portability
- Exceptional low-light performance
- American quality
Cons
- Unsuitable for long-range shooting applications
3) Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
When it comes to versatility, it is hard to go wrong with the VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope. It is perfect for hunting at close to medium ranges in thick timber or open plains. The scope is ideal for mountain hunting and hunting dangerous game.
Quick target acquisition and enhanced situational awareness when dealing with nearby targets make it one of the best Leupold scopes for 45-70. It has a lightweight design for easy portability a 30mm tube that works with most rifles.
This rifle scope is built to offer excellent optical performance from sunrise to sunset. It features high-definition lenses which offer high-quality image views that are clean and color-accurate.
It also boasts a Twilight Max Light Management System and blackened lens edges to provide bright and clear images even in poor light settings. Moreover, the scope features a generous eye box that aids in rapid target acquisition and a reversible throw lever for quick and simple magnification adjustment.
It is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum which enhances durability and it is fully waterproof and fog-free for use in all weather conditions. Above all, the scope has an illuminated reticle for easy aiming in low-light settings and an electronic reticle level for greater long-range accuracy.
Features
- Reversible throw lever
- Twilight Max Light Management System
- 30mm main tube
- High-definition lenses
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Robust aircraft-quality aluminum housing
- 6:1 zoom ratio
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Guard-ion rain-shedding coating
Pros
- Illuminated reticle
- Motion sensor technology
- High-quality image clarity
- Generous eye relief
Cons
- Expensive
4) Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Rifle Scope
If you are looking to stretch the limits of your rifle, the VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm riflescope is perfect for your needs. If you are looking to use your 45-70 for long-range applications, this scope suits you. It has a broad magnification that spans from 4.5x to 14x which is suitable for close- and long-range hunting.
This rifle scope is incredibly tough and lightweight for easy portability. It has a 1-inch main tube crafted from aircraft-quality aluminum for great strength and rigidity. Furthermore, it is designed with high-end sealed methods to stand up to extreme temperature changes, shock and impacts.
Another thing that makes this scope shine is that it is made with ease of use in mind. In addition to being lightweight, it offers a larger field of view for quick target scanning and long eye relief for rapid target acquisition. It also has an illuminated reticle for easy aiming in low-light settings.
To top it all, the scope boasts Leupold’s Elite optical system which delivers exceptional light transmission for superior performance from dawn to dusk. Unlock the full potential of your lever-action rifle with a rifle scope engineered to bring the best out of your expedition.
Features
- 1-inch main tube
- Variable 4.5-14x magnification
- Waterproof, fog-free and shockproof
- Leupold’s Elite optical system
- Blackened lens edges
- Xtended Twilight lens system
- Rugged aluminum housing
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Generous eye relief
- A durable lens cover included
- Well built to last long
Cons
- No drawbacks
5) Leupold VX-6HD 2-12x42mm Rifle Scope
If you are looking to take your hunting skills a notch higher, you should invest in a quality scope like the 6HD 2-12x42mm Rifle Scope. It offers a wide-angle field of view for quicker target scanning while giving you a variable magnification up to 12x suitable for hunting in a wide range of environments and at varying ranges.
This rifle scope is 100% waterproof, shock-resistant and fog-free. With this construction, you will be able to hunt confidently even in harsh weather conditions. It is also punisher tested to survive harsh impacts and heavy recoil for added durability. Besides, the scope is designed to perform well in all temperatures from -40°F to 160°F.
Another notable thing about the scope is the high-end optical features. It boasts Leupold’s Professional-Grade optical system which offers superior light transmission for clear and high-quality image views. This plus the Twilight Max HD Light Management System makes the scope ideal for use even in the most challenging lighting conditions.
Furthermore, the scope has an illuminated reticle for easy and accurate aiming in low-light conditions. It also features an in-scope electronic reticle level which simplifies mounting and helps enhance long-range accuracy.
Features
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- 2-12x variable magnification
- In-scope electronic reticle level
- Removable throw lever
- 100% waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Free CDS elevation dial
- Matte finish
- Leupold’s Professional-Grade optical system
Pros
- Illuminated reticle
- Exceptional low-light performance
- Generous and constant eye relief
- Large field of view
Cons
- Slightly heavy
- Expensive
6) Leupold VX-5HD 2-10x42mm Rifle Scope
Next up is the VX-5HD 2-10x42mm Rifle Scope. This is a 30mm scope suitable for multiple applications among them hunting. Mounting it on your 45-70 rifle will help you acquire targets with ease at close and long ranges.
It utilizes a twin bias erector system which makes the scope shockproof and resistant to recoil and impacts. It is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum for ultimate durability.
Better yet, it is fully waterproof and fog-free for all-weather use. It also has a Guard-ion rain shedding coating which sheds dirt, water and fingerprints while shielding the exterior lens from scratches.
Moreover, the scope has a long eye relief and a generous eye box for comfortable observation with or without eyeglasses. It also brings to the table high-quality lens coatings that maximize light transmission to develop bright and clear image views. Above all, the scope has a manageable weight for convenient portability.
Features
- Guard-ion rain-shedding coating
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Variable 2-10x magnification
- Rugged aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- 30mm main tube
- CDS-ZL2 elevation adjustment
- Pop Up Rezero windage adjustments
Pros
- Long eye relief and generous eye box
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy-to-adjust knobs
Cons
- Thin reticle
- Limited mounting options
7) Leupold VX-3HD 2.5-8x36mm Rifle Scope
Another best Leupold scope for 45-70 on our list is the VX-3HD 2.5-8x36mm Rifle Scope. It has a variable magnification from 2.5x to 8x suitable for close and mid-range hunting. At all ranges, the scope provides a wide field of view to help you scan the game with ease.
Like any other Leupold scope, this VX-3HD is designed, machines and assembled in the USA. It has a robust aluminum construction which enhances its durability without being bulky. Also, it is 100% waterproof, fogproof and shockproof to guarantee many years of use.
This riflescope features Leupold’s Elite Optics System. It delivers unmatched light transmission, glare elimination and resolution to help you get the most out of your hunting trip. It also has a Duplex reticle that stands out even in low light settings and a matte finish to camouflage your position when hunting in bright sunlight.
Features
- 1-inch main tube
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Second focal plane Duplex reticle
- Leupold’s Elite Optics System
- Twin bias spring erector system
- Rugged aircraft quality aluminum
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Durable lens cover included
- Easy to use
Cons
- Lacks reticle illumination
8) Leupold Mark 3 HD 3-9x40m Rifle Scope
Last but not least, we have the Leupold Mark 3 HD 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope. This scope is built to offer reliable and repeatable performance in any environment.
It has an adjustable magnification from 3x to 9x. At close quarters, it provides a wide field of view which every hunter needs for easy target identification. It also offers better target acquisition when hunting games at longer ranges.
This rifle scope is fully waterproof and fogproof for maximum performance in any environment and shockproof and recoil-resistant to stand up to anything you throw at it.
Moreover, it has a lightweight design for convenient portability. It also offers multiple reticle options which are incredibly accurate and adjustable to suit your specific needs.
Features
- Leupold’s Elite Optics System
- 3-9x variable magnification
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- 30mm main tube
- Ergonomic power selector
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- 40mm objective lens
Pros
- Ultralight design
- Multiple reticle options
- Guaranteed for life
Cons
- High cost
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Best Leupold Scopes for 45-70 Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the Best Leupold Scopes for 45-70
While in the hunt for a 45-70 scope, there are a few considerations to keep in mind to land the best optic. This section looks into the key factors to consider when searching for the best Leupold scopes for 45-70. Let’s have a look.
Magnification
This is the first thing to look for in a scope. With many scopes to choose from, your ideal magnification will depend on your hunting distance as well as your hunting environment.
It is best to get a scope with moderate magnification for close and mid-range hunting in forested environments where a large field of view is key. On the other hand, you will need a scope with high magnification if you are looking to hunt at long ranges.
Objective Lens
The next thing to consider after magnification is the objective lens. An objective lens determines how much light a scope collect.
If you will be hunting in low-light settings, try to look for a scope with a large objective lens. It will optimize the amount of light collected and provide bright and crisp image views.
Build Quality
A Scope with good housing is a must-have if you are looking to use it for many years and in tough and unforgiving conditions.
Luckily, Leupold makes high-quality scopes that are durable, shockproof and resistant to recoil. For greater durability, ensure that you pick a scope that is tested to be dustproof in addition to being waterproof and proof.
Lens Quality
The other important thing to consider is the quality of the lenses. Lenses are an important part of scope as they determine the clarity and quality of the images you receive.
If they are not clear enough, you will have a hard time finding and identifying your targets. To avoid this, make sure that you select a scope with a high-quality and good-performing lens.
Weight
Hunting is an exciting task but it is not easy. Whether you will be hunting for a game in thick and forested areas or you like to try your shot in large, open plains, you will be moving from one point to another looking for a game.
It is therefore important to select a lightweight scope. A light scope will not weigh you down as you maneuver the fields. It will also be easy to shoot with. This helps improve your accuracy and performance in the field.
Eye Relief
Another feature to look for is the amount of eye relief the scope has. The longer the better especially if you wear eyeglasses and when you are using a heavy recoiling rifle.
It will let you glass comfortably with your glasses on and keep your eye safe from heavy recoiling rifles. It will also give you the ability to observe your targets comfortably in any shooting position.
Read: Best Scopes for Hog Hunting
Best Leupold Scopes for 45-70 FAQs
Q: Are Leupold Scopes Good?
Yes. Leupold has been on the optics market for over a century now and it continues to make some of the best scopes available on the market today. All Leupold rifle scopes are designed, machined and assembled in the USA. They are exceptionally durable, weather-resistant and ideal for various hunting and shooting applications.
Q: What Do Numbers on a Scope Mean?
The numbers found in a rifle scope represent the magnification power and the diameter of the objective lens. For example, a 3-9x40mm scope has a variable magnification from 3x to 9x and a 40mm objective lens.
Q: Are Leupold Scopes Shockproof?
Yes. All Leupold scopes are punisher-tested and verified to be shockproof and resistant to recoil. They are also sealed with advanced sealing methods which make them fully waterproof and fog-resistant so you can use them in any weather condition.
Read: Best Scopes for 6.5 Grendel
Conclusion
We do hope that the information in this guide has given you some insight into the best Leupold scopes for 45-70. Leupold makes high-quality scopes and the scopes listed above are not an exception. Consider your needs and your hunting style, then look for a model that works best for you.