Leupold Mark AR 3-9x40mm: $300 Illuminated Mil Dot Scope: Go To War Optic

Published on October 29, 2016
Duration: 9:55

This review of the Leupold Mark AR 3-9x40mm scope highlights its value for its price point, offering a versatile magnification range suitable for plinking and hunting. Key features include an illuminated Fire Dot Mil reticle, second-generation Argon waterproofing, and Leupold's lifetime warranty. While the turrets are noted as a potential weak point due to looseness and susceptibility to zero shift, the scope is praised for its lightweight design and clear sight picture, making it a recommended option for those seeking a capable optic on a budget.

Quick Summary

The Leupold Mark AR 3-9x40mm is a budget-friendly optic praised for its versatility and lightweight design. It features an illuminated Fire Dot Mil reticle, 3-9x magnification, and Leupold's lifetime warranty. While its turrets are a noted weakness, it remains a solid choice for plinking and hunting.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Scope Overview
  2. 00:323x9 Magnification Benefits
  3. 01:11Price and Value Discussion
  4. 01:32Reticle Options: Fire Dot Mil
  5. 02:00Fire Dot Reticle Pros
  6. 02:34Illumination Operation
  7. 02:52Ideal Use Cases: Plinking & Hunting
  8. 03:31Leupold Lifetime Warranty
  9. 04:11Waterproofing & Fogging
  10. 04:42Turret Adjustments (MRAD)
  11. 05:04Turret Downsides
  12. 05:455.56 BDC Dial
  13. 06:04Tube Diameter (1-inch vs 30mm)
  14. 06:22Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  15. 06:45Weight and Portability
  16. 07:18Field of View
  17. 07:30Eye Relief
  18. 07:44Magnification Dial
  19. 08:05Focus Ring & Coating Durability
  20. 08:32Overall Opinion & Score
  21. 09:26Conclusion & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key advantages of the Leupold Mark AR 3-9x40mm scope?

The Leupold Mark AR 3-9x40mm offers a versatile 3-9x magnification range, an illuminated Fire Dot Mil reticle for low-light visibility, and Leupold's renowned lifetime warranty. It's also exceptionally lightweight, making it a practical choice for various shooting applications.

What are the main drawbacks of the Leupold Mark AR 3-9x40mm scope?

The primary drawbacks are its uncapped, loose turrets that can be easily bumped and lose zero, and a scope coating that is not highly durable. The second focal plane design also means reticle ranging is only accurate at maximum magnification.

Is the Leupold Mark AR 3-9x40mm suitable for hunting?

Yes, the 3-9x magnification is ideal for many hunting scenarios, allowing for shots from moderate distances out to several hundred yards. The illuminated reticle aids in low-light conditions often encountered during dawn and dusk hunts.

What is the reticle type on the Leupold Mark AR 3-9x40mm?

This specific version features an illuminated Fire Dot Mil reticle, which includes a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) dial calibrated for 5.56 ammunition. The Fire Dot provides a bright aiming point, and the reticle is etched for functionality even without battery power.

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