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Robbie
August 22, 2025
8
min read

Hawke Endurance 30 FD 2-12x50mm Review – Is This the Best New Scope of 2025?

Hawke has just launched the new Endurance 30 FD rifle scope lineup, and we’re diving into the 2-12x50 model to see what it can really do. In this Hawke Endurance 30 FD 2-12x50 review, we’ll cover its features, clarity, performance in the field, and how it pairs with our CVA Accura MR-X .45 caliber muzzleloader.

The All New Hawke Endurance 30 FD Lineup is impressive

Just in time for the 2025 Hunting Season

Hawke has just unveiled its newest Endurance 30 FD riflescope series. This collection is packed with versatile options tailored for a wide range of hunting disciplines—from stalking whitetail in thick brush to glassing distant ridgelines.

The lineup includes:

All these riflescopes are built on Hawke’s proven 30 mm mono-tube chassis and feature the advanced System H5 optical platform—delivering wide-angle clarity, a generous four-inch eye relief, and edge-to-edge sharpness across the entire zoom range. Each model also features fiber-optic illumination (the FD in the name) with 11 brightness levels, Motion Activation, and Auto Standby Mode to preserve battery life while remaining ready for action.

In this review, we’ll be diving into the 2–12×50 LR2 FD—our choice for its balanced low-end brightness, solid mid-range versatility, and enough power to extend your rifle’s reach when the opportunity calls.

This should be a great scope for hunters and shooters alike

Designed for hunters and shooters who demand clarity, reliability, and innovative technology in the field, this optic brings together impressive glass quality, an intelligent fiber-optic reticle, and rugged construction—all at a price that competes with scopes well above its weight class.

We're going to break down the key features, highlight what sets it apart, and help you decide if this Hawke scope deserves a spot on your rifle.

Key Features of the Hawke Endurance 30 FD 2-12x50mm

Hawke Endurance 30 FD 2-12x50mm
  • Magnification: 2–12x
  • Objective Lens: 50mm for excellent low-light performance
  • Reticle: LR2 FD (fiber-optic illuminated, second focal plane)
  • Illumination: 11 brightness levels with Motion Activation & Auto-Standby
  • Turrets: Zero-Lock ‘n’ Stop elevation turret, capped/locking windage
  • Chassis: 30mm mono-tube, waterproof, fogproof, shockproof
  • Optical System: Hawke H5, 18-layer fully multi-coated lenses
  • Eye Relief: 4 inches
  • Accessories: Includes zoom throw lever
  • Warranty: Hawke No-Fault Lifetime Warranty
  • Price: Around $649–$729 (check current price here)

What We Like About It

Optics & Clarity

The System H5 lenses deliver sharp, edge-to-edge clarity with vibrant colors and excellent light transmission. The large 50mm objective lens is most helpful in dawn and dusk scenarios, where many scopes fall short.

Smart Reticle Illumination

The LR2 FD reticle with illuminated dot and hash marks

The fiber-optic LR2 FD reticle offers 11 brightness settings with motion activation. Leave your rifle resting for a few minutes, and the reticle powers down. Pick it up again, and it instantly reactivates. That feature means you’ll always have illumination when you need it, while conserving battery life.

User-Friendly Turrets

Easy to use turrets that allow you to set "zero" and easily return after any adjustments

The Zero-Lock ‘n’ Stop elevation turret allows you to dial in for distance and then return to zero without hassle. Paired with capped/locking windage turrets, it’s a system that combines tactical flexibility with hunting practicality.

Durability

Built on a 30mm mono-tube chassis and nitrogen-purged, this scope is rugged enough to withstand recoil (rated for all calibers), weather, and field abuse. Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof—Hawke built this one for real-world use.

Who Is This Scope For?

This should be a great scope to suit a wide range of hunting opportunities

The Hawke Endurance 30 FD 2-12x50mm is perfect for hunters and shooters who:

  • Need a reliable all-around optic for everything from deer hunting in thick woods to longer shots across fields.
  • Hunt in low-light conditions where the 50mm objective and illuminated reticle shine.
  • Want motion-activated technology without overcomplication.
  • Value a rugged scope backed by a lifetime warranty at a fair price point.

Side by Side Comparison

Feature Hawke Endurance 30 FD 2-12x50mm Vortex Viper HS 2.5-10x44 Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x50
Magnification 2–12x 2.5–10x 3.5–10x
Objective Lens 50mm 44mm 50mm
Reticle LR2 FD (Illuminated Fiber-Optic, SFP) Dead-Hold BDC (SFP) Duplex or FireDot (Illuminated optional)
Illumination ✅ Yes – Motion Activation ❌ No ✅ FireDot models
Turrets Zero-Lock ‘n’ Stop Elevation Capped turrets Finger-click adjustments
Optical Coating 18-layer fully multi-coated XR multi-coated DiamondCoat 2
Eye Relief 4.0 in 4.0 in 3.6–4.4 in
Weight ~24 oz ~16.5 oz ~13 oz
Warranty No-Fault Lifetime VIP Lifetime Warranty Full Lifetime Guarantee
Price (2025) ~$649–$729 ~$299–$499 ~$699–$799

What Will We Try First?

We're excited to pair this scope with an awesome muzzleloader

We mounted the Hawke Endurance FD 30 2-12x50 on a CVA Accura MR-X in .45 caliber, and the pairing feels like a perfect fit. For most of our hunting opportunities, shots will be at closer ranges, and the low-end 2x magnification excels in these scenarios by allowing in plenty of light and offering a wide field of view. At the same time, having the ability to zoom up to 12x gives us the confidence to stretch out the effective range of the .45 caliber when the opportunity arises.

Overall, the Endurance FD 30 appears well-suited to the Accura MR-X, offering a balance of versatility, clarity, and light transmission that suits both close-in shots and longer-range precision when needed.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Excellent glass clarity with 18-layer multi-coating
  • Large 50mm objective for low-light hunting
  • Smart reticle with motion activation & auto-standby
  • Zero-Lock elevation turret makes dialing repeatable and straightforward
  • Rugged, weatherproof design
  • Includes a zoom throw lever
  • Backed by Hawke’s No-Fault Lifetime Warranty
Cons
  • Second focal plane reticle (some shooters prefer FFP for holdovers)
  • Slightly heavier than smaller objective hunting scopes
  • Price (~$650–$730) puts it in competition with proven favorites from other brands
  • Limited magnification top-end (12x may not satisfy long-range specialists)

FAQs

Q: Is the Hawke Endurance 30 FD worth it?

A: Yes. The Hawke Endurance 30 FD offers premium clarity, smart illumination, and rugged durability at a mid-range price.

Q: Does the Hawke Endurance 30 FD come with an illuminated reticle?

A: Yes. It features the LR2 FD fiber-optic illuminated reticle with 11 brightness settings and motion activation.

Q: What is the magnification range of the Hawke Endurance 30 FD?

A: This model has a 2–12x magnification range with a 50mm objective lens, ideal for close-range woods hunting and longer field shots.

Q: Is the Hawke Endurance 30 FD waterproof and fogproof?

A: Yes. The scope is nitrogen purged, waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.

Q: How much does the Hawke Endurance 30 FD cost?

A: As of 2025, the price runs between $649 and $729 – check retailers here.

Q: What warranty does Hawke offer?

A: Hawke backs this scope with its No-Fault Lifetime Warranty—a big confidence boost when making an investment in optics.

Should I Buy This Thing?

Final Verdict

Hawke Endurance 30 FD is a great addition to any rifle

The Hawke Endurance 30 FD 2-12x50mm is one of the most exciting new optics for 2025. It blends clarity, durability, and innovative illumination features in a mid-range package that’s priced competitively at around $650. While it’s not the lightest or the highest magnification scope out there, its balance of features makes it an ideal choice for hunters and all-around shooters looking for dependable performance.

If you want a scope that performs like a high-end optic without the premium price tag, the Endurance 30 FD deserves a serious look.

Written by
Robbie

Robbie has enjoyed the outdoors since he can remember. His earliest memories include hours upon hours of squirrel hunting and learning how to enjoy all aspects of hunting season in God's wonderful outdoors. Now he is always working hard and testing gear in the field to give you the best review and most thorough information he possibly can.