Leupold Riflescope Model Timeline

A chronological list of major Leupold riflescope models and product lines, including key innovations and approximate introduction dates.

1947 – Plainsman

  • First fogproof nitrogen-sealed riflescope made in the USA
  • Fixed-power, early post-WWII design

1954 – Mountaineer

  • Compact fixed-power hunting scope
  • Offered in 2.5x and 4x models

1960 – M7 Series

  • Fixed 3x and 4x power
  • Introduced centered reticle and solid steel internals

1965 – M8 Series

  • Successor to M7 with improved optics and ruggedized body
  • Available in multiple fixed powers (4x, 6x, 10x)

1966 – Adjustable Objective (AO) M8 Variants

  • Target and silhouette shooters benefit from AO focus

1974 – Vari-X II / Vari-X III Series

  • First major variable-magnification lineup
  • Vari-X II for hunters; Vari-X III for long-range and premium optics
  • Duplex reticle standard; turrets evolved from friction to click adjustments

1983 – Vari-X IIc / IIIc

  • Improved coatings (C = Coated or Complete)
  • Better clarity and fogproofing

1990 – Mark 4 Series (military/law enforcement)

  • Tactical-grade scopes for snipers and long-range shooters
  • First offered in fixed 10x, later expanded to variable options

1993–1996 – VX Rebrand Begins

  • Vari-X II ➝ VX-II
  • Vari-X III ➝ VX-III
  • Internal glass and adjustment improvements

2002 – Rifleman Series

  • Budget-friendly alternative to VX line
  • Basic coatings and friction dials

2004 – VX-L Series

  • Scalloped objective bell for lower mounting with large objectives
  • Premium glass; short-lived line

2008 – VX-3 and VX-3L

  • Edge-to-edge clarity, Xtended Twilight Lens System
  • Custom Dial System (CDS) introduced

2010 – VX-R Series

  • Illuminated reticle with fiber-optic FireDot system
  • Motion Sensor Technology (MST)

2013 – Mark 6 Series

  • Compact tactical optics with high-end glass and wide zoom ratios

2016 – VX-Freedom Series

  • Replacement for VX-1, VX-2, and Rifleman
  • Affordable, durable, with modern coatings and CDS compatibility

2020 – Mark 5HD Series

  • Long-range tactical scopes with large elevation range and HD lenses

2023 – VX-6HD & VX-5HD Updates

  • Improved HD lenses, ZeroLock elevation, Guard-Ion coatings

Note: Dates are approximate and based on Leupold catalogs, serial tracking, and collector consensus. Some product overlaps occurred during transition years.