Leupold Freedom RDS - Second Attempt

Published on May 6, 2020
Duration: 12:03

This review of the Leupold Freedom RDS, presented by InRangeTV, details a second attempt after an initial unit failed by having its lens detach. While the replacement unit exhibited a manufacturing defect (a scratch on the front lens), it passed initial durability tests, including live fire on a KE-9 PCC and a full-auto burst. The review highlights the optic's American origin and its position as the lowest-priced American-made option, while also noting ergonomic bulkiness compared to competitors and limited battery life.

Quick Summary

The Leupold Freedom RDS, the lowest-priced American-made red dot sight, faced initial quality control issues with one unit's lens detaching and another exhibiting a front lens scratch. Despite these concerns, the second unit passed initial durability tests on a KE-9 PCC, including a full-auto burst, demonstrating functional resilience.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction & Series Context
  2. 00:56Holosun Experience
  3. 01:17Leupold Freedom RDS Initial Failure
  4. 01:32Leupold Service & NRA Award Controversy
  5. 02:22InRangeTV Editorial Stance
  6. 02:54New Black Ring RDS Version Announced
  7. 03:41Review of Second Optic
  8. 03:58Unboxing Second RDS
  9. 04:47Battery Installation & Dot Check
  10. 05:45Lens Inspection & Smack Test
  11. 06:17US Origin Verification
  12. 06:42Second Optic Manufacturing Defect
  13. 07:12Field Testing Setup
  14. 07:47Live Fire & Durability Test
  15. 08:15Point of Aim vs. Point of Impact Test
  16. 08:50POA/POI Test Shots
  17. 09:24POA/POI Test Results
  18. 10:03Dynamic Shooting & Ergonomics
  19. 10:49Overall Assessment of Freedom RDS
  20. 11:06Full Auto Test
  21. 11:14Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What issues did the Leupold Freedom RDS experience in the InRangeTV review?

The first Leupold Freedom RDS unit tested had its lens detach during testing. The second replacement unit, while functional, had a noticeable scratch on the front lens, indicating potential manufacturing defects.

How did the Leupold Freedom RDS perform in durability tests?

The second Leupold Freedom RDS unit passed initial durability tests, including live fire on a KE-9 PCC and a full-auto burst, with the optic remaining functional and its glass in place.

What are the key features and drawbacks of the Leupold Freedom RDS?

Its key feature is being American-made and its low price point. Drawbacks include potential quality control issues, a bulky design that can obstruct the field of view, and limited battery life.

Why was a KE-9 PCC used for testing the Leupold Freedom RDS?

A KE-9 PCC was chosen for testing due to its violent blowback action, which quickly reveals optic defects, and because the red dot's clarity is less critical for PCCs compared to long-range carbines.

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