Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40

The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 is the default scope for a hunting lever gun, and the reasons are durability, weight, and glass quality for the money. At 12.2 ounces on a 1-inch maintube, it does not turn a handy Henry into a nose-heavy rifle, and the 3-9x range covers the realistic distances a .30-30, .45-70, or Long Ranger actually shoots.

Leupold builds the VX-Freedom in the USA and backs it with the Gold Ring lifetime warranty, and the Twilight Light Management System glass holds usable brightness into the last minutes of legal shooting light, which is exactly when deer move. The Duplex reticle keeps the picture clean for a brush gun, with a thin center for precision and heavy outer posts that draw the eye fast.

The 3-9x40 is the all-around configuration. Leupold also offers the same scope with an UltimateSlam reticle tuned for muzzleloaders and slug guns, and a rimfire-MOA version, but for a centerfire lever rifle the standard Duplex is the right pick. Pair it with a one-piece Picatinny rail like the XS lever rail or the Henry H014PR for a rock-solid mount.