Leupold VX-6HD Gen 1 vs Gen 2: What’s New and Is It Worth Upgrading?
VX-6HD Gen 1 vs Gen 2: Is Leupold’s Update Worth It?
If you're in the market for a high-end second focal plane rifle scope—or already own a Leupold VX-6HD—you’ve probably heard about the new Gen 2 update. While it shares much of the DNA of the original, Leupold made several practical improvements that may matter, especially if you hate bringing tools into the field.
In this article, I’ll break down the differences between the VX-6HD Gen 1 and Gen 2, highlight what’s changed in real-world use, and help you decide whether it’s worth making the switch.
What’s New in the VX-6HD Gen 2?
Leupold didn’t overhaul the VX-6HD, but they did refine it in smart ways that improve usability, turret function, and overall field performance.
➕ 5 MOA of Additional Elevation Adjustment
The Gen 2 adds 5 MOA of extra elevation travel to the CDS-ZL2 turret system. This gives you more flexibility for long-range dialing—especially helpful for shooters pushing past mid-range distances. The turret also borrows a bit of the feel and movement from Leupold’s Mark 5 line, which is a nice touch.
⚙️ Speed Set Dial System
This might be the most impactful update. The new turret now features a tool-free quick-release system, allowing you to remove or install ballistic dials on the fly. Adjusting or fixing your zero in the field is now faster and far more convenient.
🔁 Integrated Throw Lever
Zooming just got smoother. Gen 2 scopes now come with a built-in low-profile throw lever on the magnification ring—no need to install a bulky aftermarket one or worry about it catching on gear.
🔋 Redesigned Illumination Cap
The battery compartment for the illuminated reticle now requires a special tool to open. This is more secure (and like Leupold’s Mark 4 series), but depending on your preferences, it may feel like a step backward in convenience.
👁️ Fast-Focus Eyepiece
The addition of a fast-focus eyepiece makes quick diopter adjustments easier. It’s a small but welcome change, especially for those who share optics or hunt in rapidly changing light.
🔬 Subtle Optical Tweaks
Glass quality remains the same—and that’s a good thing. Both generations still use Leupold’s Guard-Ion™ lens coating and excellent glass clarity. No complaints here.
What Stays the Same?
The Gen 2 retains everything that made the original VX-6HD popular:
6:1 Zoom Ratio
Professional-Grade Optical System
Guard-Ion™ Lens Coating
High-Definition Glass
Precision Side Focus
Motion Sensor Technology (MST™) – Auto shut-off for illumination
Electronic Reticle Level
Alumina® Flip-Back™ Lens Covers
Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof
Illuminated Reticle Options
If you’re happy with your Gen 1’s performance and don’t need more turret travel or easier turret customization, rest assured—you’re not missing out on a dramatic leap in optical capability.
Turret Performance: The Real Upgrade
While both versions use the CDS-ZL2 (Custom Dial System – ZeroLock 2), the Gen 2 clearly improves the system with:
Additional 5 MOA of elevation travel
Faster, tool-free dial-swapping
Crisper, more tactile clicks
If you regularly dial for elevation—whether for hunting, long-range shooting, or changing loads—these upgrades matter.
Usability: Gen 2 Just Feels Smoother
From the integrated throw lever to the fast-focus eyepiece, the Gen 2 is simply more polished and efficient in the field. The changes might not sound groundbreaking, but over the course of a long hunt or a day on the range, these quality-of-life improvements add up.
🤔 Should You Upgrade?
Stick with Gen 1 if:
You already own one and it meets your needs
You don’t often dial turrets or change ballistic dials
You prefer a traditional battery cap that doesn’t need a special tool
Go with Gen 2 if:
You want maximum turret travel and faster, tool-free customization
You appreciate integrated features like the throw lever and fast-focus eyepiece
You’re buying new and want the most refined version available
🏁 Final Thoughts
The Leupold VX-6HD Gen 2 isn’t a reinvention—it’s a thoughtful refinement. Leupold kept all the core performance and optical quality of the Gen 1 but added small, practical upgrades that serious shooters and hunters will appreciate.
If your Gen 1 is working well, there’s no urgent reason to swap. But if you're in the market for a new scope—or if you demand the most dialing range, speed, and usability from your optic—the Gen 2 is the clear winner.
