** if you are looking to pick one up check out this link: ~~~~USE PROMO CODE: EPIKARMS ~~~ EP5 5-25x56 bit.ly/3Ed93rz SH4 Gen2 6-24x50 bit.ly/3zYG5cI for the Vortex Strike Eagle: amazon: amzn.to/3fpjDNd Optics planet: alnk.to/e74JVNd PSA: alnk.to/87WYA4j Brownells: alnk.to/60XSOhZ Euro optic: alnk.to/clVa7Fs
I bought a used vortex scope. Only after i mounted it did i learn it was bent. Sent it to vortex for service. They shipped me a brand new one of the next gen. Customer for life!
That's what I'm talking about. For the average guy on the street with limited funds, Vortex really is a no-brainer, all else being roughly equal. I have a Strike Eagle 5-25x56 & am extremely happy with it's performance. The added reassurance of Vortexes no-fault warranty should I accidently damage the scope is just icing on an already excellent cake.
The 4-24x50 Strike Eagle for $299 is really hard to beat for the money. It's still a better deal compared to the EP5 at $424 last months August 2022 sale. $289 and $299 for sale SH4s now September 2022 the 6-24x is junk even for $299 or $325 with combo pack, the 4-16x50 is ok for $289 or $315 with combo pack way better image quality compared to their 6-24x.
I've heard about many good stories about people buying used Vortex scopes even broken ones for cheap with seller disclosure to send in fir a new one and indeed got brand new replacements no questions asked.
Arken has been running a combo pack special for months. Rings, Scope caps, Throw lever, Shooting bag and patch for $20. If you buy a scope. ($170 off.)Japanese glass. They have low overhead. No body comes close for the price.
No. I have seen tons of people say the vortex is better. And tons sayimg the Athelon and Arken are. I think it is probably because at the $700 to $1000 price point the QC is less consitent.
Its nice to watch neutral reviews instead of reviews from people that are afiliated to a spacific scope manufacturer no names mentioned lol, please dont be tempted to go down that route, every review i have watched from you so far has been non biast, keep them coming.
thanks Steve, I try to keep it unbiassed. Some of the the optics are provided for review by the companies under the agreement that I will be providing an unbiassed review. The agreement with them is that if its a complete failure of a product and would be represented as such I return the product and no content gets created at all. If the product is average/good/ great then I produce a video and represent it as such. also I research the optics long before I make the request so i already have a really good idea of the QC. Ive had to return some optics to companies without completing reviews in the past they were so bad. other than that. if i buy the optic good bad or terrible I demonstrate it in the video. otherwise it would not be possible to get these reviews done. also for my review It try to support my observations with proof, such as glass clarity/ tracking ability ect thanks for watching!
After doing a lot of research over these two scopes, I went with the Vortex. But I should also say I went with the New 3-18 X 44 34MM. It's a lot lighter than either of the 5-25's and perfect for a DMR. The tightness of the diopter setting and the parralax on the Arken you spoke of, that's not an issue and in some cases maybe more desired because once you set your diopter setting most people don't mess with it and there's really no need to unless your vision changes. And you don't want your parallax accidently moving either. That I like on the Arken. On two of the 30 videos I watched on the Arken there were complaints about the chromatic aberration within the Arken and the guy sent it back. Then sent him another and it too had just as much chromatic aberration. I have had several Vortex, I have two Trijicon's, and two NF. I've never had a problem with any of them with the exception of a PST 6-24 a few years ago that wouldn't hold zero if bumped, so I sold that one. I love what Arken is doing, but their price is what it is because of the glass they are using I think. All the other features of their scopes are great! But the glass is what keeps their prices where they're at. If they used Japanese glass instead of Chinese, their scopes would be $200 more than what they are now. But In a few years if Arken is still around and I'm in the market for another scope I'll look at what they're doing. We all love great products and the more companies there are the more prices come down. Competition does that in a capitalist society.
The feel of the turret clicks wasn't mentioned, but the Arken mechanism is all metal and the clicks better than my $3500 Kahles! I also prefer the larger numbers on the Arken turrets. Buy whatever you want, but I have now put the EP5 on all my LD guns (4) and paid for them by selling the Kahles.
I’ve got 3 SE’s. They’ve all been excellent for what I do. Haven’t looked through an Arken, but it seems to be a good optic. Vortex’s warranty speaks for itself. Great company!
In this price range, warranty/customer service is the biggest factor, followed closely by glass quality. Arken is one of a dozen new "companies" selling rebranded scopes supplied by the same Chinese manufacturer that supplies Monstrum, Swampfox, Athlon, cheap Burris, cheap Bushnell, cheap Vortex, cheap Sig Sauer, Simmons, Barska, etc. The difference between scopes flooding the market is how good is customer service, how serious are they about their warranty, and how good is the glass/tracking. Gimmicky features mean nothing if they are poorly optimised or flaky in terms of durability.
I have several Vortex scopes, including the Venom and yeah, the Rev Stop does limit the MOA adjustment. I have also a Diamondback Tactical and one of the "cool guys" told me that was a trash scope. However, I also have some Arken SH4 Gen 2 scopes, which were cheaper that the "cool guys" like better. So, I get heat for buying an inexpensive rifle but a cheap scope is okay. Good thing I am not an expert. I am so confused. I like these reviews because they are honest and allow you to decide which is more important. Clarity and travel? Streamline. One advantage the SE has over the Arken is that it does not have turrets that slip on you. With Arken, you need to use some Vibra Tite on the screws to help the hold. Arken tech support told me that and it has worked.
I just bought a Vortex Diamondback 6-24X50 (for a 308 rifle), and I am a bit disappointed, chromatic aberration is quite high after 16X, and the turrets cliks are not very precise. I know that it is not a high class scope, but I realized after my purchase that the Arken SH4J offered a better glass, zero stop, an illuminated reticle, for the same price. I go and use my Vortex, but I think that I'll get an Arken EP5 on next year.
@@keplergso8369 I did not have a problem with my Diamondback Tactical scopes (I have more than one.) However, the Venom has become my favorite because of the luxurious eyebox. And the fact that the turrets do not slip and do not require a thread locker. That being said, Arken is also a good scope. Just make sure you get some Vibra Tite for the set screws on the turret. More than one person besides me has noticed the slipping turrets problem. And I got the Vibra Tite idea from Arken Tech Support.
Its a hard choice for me. Ive been a Vortex fan for years. I've had quite a few and used quite a few. All the way from Crossfire II to the strike eage and Viper. They have been loyal to me. One had 1 issue with the Crossfire II and they sent me a new one with absolutely no questions asked. Even sent me a return label.
My deciding factor...I am looking to get an Arken. I have an Athlon now. I have had Vortex in the past and my favorite thing is the warranty because I have used it 4 outta 5x. That single Vortex is the only optic I actually say a prayer over before I stare through it.
I am a big Vortex fan. I have not had to return any scopes but did have to return a red dot and a pair of binoculars. The red dot was their fault. crappy build. The binos were my fault. Dropped from 4 feet onto concrete and it knocked them out of alignment. Both were replaced with upgrades to what I brought in. I just ordered an Arken 5-25 qnd a KRH BRAVO chassis for my Tikka CTR
I feel like the color/contrast is better on the SE and the Clarity on the Arken wins out, IDK if anyone can agree with me. I always heard that Arken scope has limitation of lens coating issue thus cased the color tone to get muted epically in longer distances, and for the purpose of the scope I personally prefer clarity (to make out the objects easier)over color/contrast.
I can no longer recommend Chinese made Vortex scopes after several failures due to very poor QC among several of their different lines of Chinese made scopes. I still recommend their Japan made ones when they go in sale for 40%-50% off or at least with their 40% off military law enforcement discount.
I have both of these in MOA. I started with the SH4 and wanted an upgrade with more magnification. I went with the strike eagle. I did notice the features are a little smoother on the Vortex, but I immediately hated how much of the adjustment to zero stop used. I missed the large font on the arken turrets and other minor things. I then ordered the Arken EP5. Not that the SE is bad, but if you got used to an Arken, its hard to go to the SE as long as you dont mind the extra bulk and weight of the Arken. I cant tell much difference in the glass personally at full magnification or low light but the vortex does seem to have brighter colors (if that makes any sense). Both great optics, but in my opinion, save some money and go with the Arken.
I own five of these and all of the guns are sub moa at a thound yards and the 300 win and 7 prc are also sub moa at 1800 and 2200 yards. These are very functional and gret clarity.
I have my second ep5 scope on its way. I have been torture testing and beating the crap out of this ep 5 on my 28Nosler with the muzzle brake off of it. Over 65 rounds now and that scope with Arken rings are rock solid. Regarding warranties I think anybody would rather have the darn thing go out the door late and have quality control take the time to do it right the first time so that we are not inconvenienced with a return. I like warranties but don't want to invoke them unless I absolutely have to. I think Vortex counts on that and it's a shame because they used to be so good. I promise you you can't go wrong with this budget ep5 scope. It's a tremendously good value! I do use your links because of your quality videos!
I got a Dimond back tactical 4-16x for elk hunting and absolutely love it. That thing has gone through more than any scope should be expected to endure and it kept its zero. That being said im looking at setting up a sass type rifle and have heard nothing but good stuff about the arken scopes. Thinking im going to try them out.
Something that you didnt cover when you discussed illumination is that the arken only has the center cross illuminated, whereas the strike eagle has the whole tree illuminated. For me i prefer the whole tree, so that may be a decision maker for others also.
Correction on lumination mine hase 12. And the warrenty is the life of the scope not the person that bought it so my grandson can get a bran new replacement 100 years from now. Vortex has to have a recite from the original purchaser.
I have both of these and they are completely different scopes so why people try to compare them is beyond me The Arken is a beast, heavier chunkier but shorter, a no nonsense long range target scope. The Strike eagle I can get away with on a hunting rifle. In UK Strike Eagle is over £800 and the EP5 £480 again big difference. If you want a no nonsense long range target scope ...I cannot believe the bang for your buck the Arken gives you, you can't go wrong
Check out Rex Reviews comparison between these two. He did a much more thorough tracking comparison. When the Vortex started nearing the outer edge of its travel, tracking went to shit. Meaning it just quit moving the reticle even though the turret was still clicking. You can't tell me that didn't produce a loss of zero. The EP5's have much better mechanicals and tracking and as this channel concluded, the EP5 also has better glass
So here's the deal I have both and the Vector Optics Continental scope beats them both. I have them in 3-18x50 and the 5-30x56 90% light transmission and smooth in all movements. It's better than some other scopes I have that cost $1700.00
Wait for their next EP5 sale. Last one August 2022 was for $424. Currently September 2022 SH4s $289 and $299 or $315 and $325 with combo packs. Get the 4-16x50 $289 is better than their 6-24x is kinda junky.
Thanks for the review. Two sweet optics, would be hard to choose one. I'd probably side with the Arken, a few features edge out the Vortex. It's nice that Arken has the EP5 in stock now with no delay.
Thank you for your review!! I ended up ordering an EP-5. Should get it in my hands on Tuesday. Have you ever reviewed a Monstrum G3 5-25X50? I would like to see how that one compares to these two.
I like it very much!! However this is the first scope I’ve purchased that went to this magnification so I don’t have much to compare it to. I am very happy with my purchase.
Congratulations on your video! a question for you, between a Riton Conquer X1 6x24x50 FFP scope and a Vector Optics Continental 5x30x56 FFP, which one would you recommend?
The Arken EP5 glass is just blowing the Vortex Strike Eagle away on my laptop, and there is just so much Chromaticaberation in the Vortex lenses then there is on the Arken EP 5, however, the image appears much larger on the Arken EP5 as if it were on a higher magnification. in any case the image quality is not even close on my laptop, given the camera is much different then actually looking through the scope. thanks again for another godd comparison, how about them T's ?
Great comparison. In my opinion they are very close in all aspects except price and warranty. So it kind of boils down to use. On a precision rifle that doesn't see much rough usage, I'd go for the Arken. If you use it more for hunting I'd pay the extra for the Vortex because of the warranty but be mindful, I've seen some reviews recently that mention the Vortex warrantee isn't what it used to be. I don't have any personal experience on the subject but think you should keep it in mind. If you reload, $150 could mean quite a few rounds of fun despite recent prices for components.
@@tysonralston4288 HAHAHAHA you will definitely need that warranty with the no-name Arken scope. They're only a few years old because it's a pop-up company buying bulk scopes from the same Chinese scope plant that makes CVLIFE and Swampfox scopes sold on Amazon. They literally just buy warehouse space in the US, register a brand name in the US, and buy $150 scopes that they turn around and sell for $500 on Amazon. Their customer service is minimal and just enough to keep the 1 star reviews off of Amazon by handing out blemished scopes as new replacements. There is a reason that are a dozen no-name scope companies that have popped up in the last 10 years. Arken isn't a scope company, they're an Amazon reseller with a logo.
I have the Arken EP4 6-24x50 and it eats both of these.Bad part of Votex is the warranty is needed too many times.I want one that I dont need to send back.
The Javelin is the Ares ETR and the Stryker is the Cronus BTR. Just different brand labels and different warranties. Athlon has lifetime warranty and Delta does not.
I have sh4gen2, only thing I can say so far, is when I take it outside, the ocular lens fogs up. On the outside, not the inside. No other scope i have does that.
Did Arken send you a prepaid return shipping label for warranty return? They are known to do this so the customers aren't out if return shipping money out of pocket. Is personally ask to upgrade to their better EP5 or one of their new lightweight EPL4 scopes and pay the difference due to much better glass quality and hopefully a lot better QC in their higher priced models.
So buy the kit with the moa one peoce mount and level and handel to adjust magnifigation scope caps that are way over the top on prformance and qaulity a top of the line cap that i wear with pride a shirt. Does the vortex even even offer that at 140.00 more. Yep the arken ep5 tops.
The Arken has better clicks, cost considerably less, and doesn't loose any elevation if you use the zero stop. When I'm ready to buy, my money is on the Arken.
I wanted to update my reply. I went ahead and took the arken plunge and bought an ep5. It is a very solid scope with good glass. The eyebox is not as bad as I originally thought when I first looked though one. I just takes some getting used too. I would recommend this scope.
Now primary arms GLX series sucks the 2.5 raptor was defective the 4-16 and 6-30 view looks just like the Arkens so I wasted almost $1900 bucks but the best primary arms I’ve owned is the SLX 5-25x56 34mm super crisp glass and eye opening out to a 1000 meters and I only use Strike Eagle for my 4 hunting rifles
rangeview sport will have them in Canada shortly (they are on pre order) also as another goo option thats 100$ cheaper theres the Vortex Venom 5-25x56 less internal adjustment but still pretty close in performance
IMHO the Element Titan aren't really worth paying $799 for. They might be worth buying for $550 which was their most recent sale price though last month early to mid November. Several dealers are willing to sell Element brand scopes for a lot lower than MSRP if you give then a call over the phone. Example Element Nexus $1000-$1100:and Helix SFP $275 and $325 FFP 6-24x50:and $330 FFP Helix 4-16x44. You can also get them for free if you agree to post a favorable review while some other dealers offer half price for a good review. Just stating the facts. Arken scopes on the other hand have a better marketing system where the UA-cam reviewers get paid commissions through their UA-cam affiliate links and we're getting paid $50-$100 per scope sold through their own link. I don't know how much they get paid today since they recently lowered their scope prices across the board. It used to be between 17% and 25% commission per scope which is understandable when the SH4 were $450 (Now selling for under $300) and the EP5 was $570 or $580 (Now selling for under $450).
You're better off buying the Athlon Midas Tac 6-24x50 for around $500 instead of the Vortex Venom and Athlon Helos. It's a superior scope in comparison.
I’ve got plenty of Vortex scopes ranging from strike eagle, viper lr, viper pst, and razor line scopes. I also have this Arken. I feel that this Japanese glass is more on par with the razor line. It’s slightly better than my viper PST in glass quality and definitely way better turrets. I don’t feel the strike eagle is close or comparable
When I was comparing a friends Arken 5x25 to my PST Gen 2 I felt the opposite. The PST was definately sharper and had a much better eyebox. Now turret wise the Arken hands down.
I have 2 of the Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50 and would strongly recommend paying just a little extra to get the Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50 ($500-$600 depending on where you buy from and if you can find them for $450 anywhere still). It's hands down a superior scope compare to the Diamondback Tactical. It also has a zero stop which the Diamondback does not. If you are a real die hard Vortex lover then for $679 the PST gen 2 (regularly $999) on sale from Midway or if you can still find them for $500 on sale elsewhere.
I have the Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50 and thought it was ok for $350 until I bought the Athlon Midas Tac 6-24x50 that literally blows it away in optical clarity and tracking plus has a zero stop. I paid around $450 for it last year and they're well worth the $500 to $600 today. It's just as good as my Athlon Ares BTR that sells for $850 but without the illumination. The Midas Tac also blows away the Arken EP5.
Someone in our shooting group recently bought an AYIN Reaper FFP 6-24x50 for $159 shipped and it's a better scope with much better glass with superior turrets when we compared it side by side to a Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50. It's also made in China just like the Vortex Diamondback Tactical.
It is unknown if they will still be in business several years in the future to honor any lifetime warranty. That's how it goes with all new start up businesses.
Vortex has already been established and around for awhile now and have been introducing new models regularly and have proven their lifetime warranty guarantee.
@@donwalker3683 Many big name USA companies sell Chinese made scopes labeled under their own brands. Some companies that don't sell Chinese scopes are Tract Optics, Trijicon, Sightron, Clearidge, Leupold, Nightforce, Zeiss, Meopta, as well as most high end European companies (but not Hawke who only sell 100% Chinese scopes including their expensive $1500 top of the line Frontiers are Chinese). There are some Chinese scopes that are actually worth buying such as the Athlon Midas Tac 6-24x50 in the $500 price point (Midway currently Sept 25 2022 offers a $200 gift certificate with any Athlon Midas TAC purchase so almost like getting one for $450 but you use the $200 towards your next Midway purchase I'd get the $199 clearance SFP Vortex 4-16x42 Diamondback HP for hunting that's made in Philippines) and Burris Signature HD line specifically the 5-25x50 ($50 Burris manufacturer rebate good until Oct 31 2022) and Vortex Diamondback Tactical (4-16x44 model specifically at $279 or less).
Would love to see a summary comparison video of the Strike Eagle 5-25, Apex 4-32, Discovery ED-PRS 5-25, and Arken EP5, realizing the price range is massive but it would be interesting to see how much better the Apex optics are vs the lower end scopes. (If you decide to do this video, please feel free to throw other scopes in there too!)
Hi. I actually have the Discovery PRS and the Arken EP5. Last night I also ordered the SE. Here is where I'm at a loss to explain.... The SE sells for about $799 most everywhere. However, Amazon sells them for $499. They state "NEW", but I was wondering if they are refurbs or not. Too good to be true? Anyway, the PRS versus the EP5. Too close to call, both awesome scopes. The PRS amazed me for the packing job alone. It's fantastic. Both of these scopes are BIG. On person said the turrets on the PRS looked like cat food cans. Not far off. This is of no concern to me as I shoot of benches, The turrets on the Arken a slightly more positive. They are almost TOO positive! I also have a SH4 Arken and it's VERY good also. BTW, this is my 6th Discovery scope and they just keep getting better all the time. ron
I'm a little (really a LOT) suspicious of every UA-cam reviewer raving about Arken equipment. If I was a manufacturer, I'd probably also be sending out a lot of free scopes to "review." Besides superior optics, no one can even match the Vortex warranty.
yeah sending out optics is every companys approach to getting the work out on their optics. at this time there is almost no company offering the features at the price Arken is offering. thats why everyonbe is ranting and raving about them. before Arken came along you would pay 1000$ for 32mils of adjustmen and half mediocre glass. they basically forced the industry to recognise that they need to deliver more for less, margins in the scope industry are pretty big, and the big companies were just happy with the original status quo.
Y'all Vortex Strike Eaagle 4-24x50 and 3-18x44 is now $309 on Optics Planet and $329 respectively.. on another site. Had to get both lol. But maybe I'll add Arken LVPO to the collection later l see it's also dropped in price to $400 zone.
I missed their sale when they had the 4-24x50 Strike Eagle on sale for $279 and free shipping earlier this year which was one of the best deals in recent history for a decent affordable scope.
Obviously, Arken EP5 is better than Vortex Strike Eagle, at least for glass clarity, 1:28 vs 1:49, you can see SE has more bluish chromatic aberration, while EP5 has much less. Reality talks. Plus its crisp turrets, precise tracking, Arken haters (including some UA-camrs such as Panther Hollow) can be quite now.
Look at the second rotation nubers and see how much easier you can see and tell them how much more the arken can dial than the vortex. O yea the arken tracks better and that is way more important that what you just said.
Ok so for my next build I was thinking the vortex venom, just bang for buck wise seemed like the best fit, but this arken isnt much more, would it be a better choice over the venom?
Can you do a ($650 with rebate) Burris Signature HD 5-25x50 6.5 Creedmore? Compared to to the Athlon Ares ETR 4.5-30x56 ($1000)? And Athlon Ares BTR 4.5-27x50 ($850)? And Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50 ($500-$600)?
i did R&D for an optics company for 3 years developing a mil spec scope. No one cares about how stiff the focus is, etc. There are things that matter on a scope, and 90% of the BS being compared on here is totally stupid. eye relief optical clearity WHAT IS ITS PRIMARY USE....what is it designed for. e.g. ELR, FTR, rimfire, long range hunting, short range hunting, tactical courses, etc. weight and how this relates to purpose (is weight good or bad) holds zero what angular systems are available for the turrets perfect tracking zero stop etc. adjustment range parallax range and sensativity zoom range (if applicable) Retical style and how appropriate is it for the function of the scope. recoil resistance...what is it rated to. how tough is it in real world conditions or is it ok for it to be delicate. If these are not the focus of a review, the review is a car salesman selling you BS because they dont know enough about the topic. and the most important....WHAT IS ITS PRIMARY USE....what is it designed for. e.g. ELR, FTR, rimfire, long range hunting, short range hunting, tactical courses, etc.
im not singling out the above, almost all the reviews on scopes are like this. explains why 90% of guys at a rifle range dont know how to use a parallax adjustment
I think you`re full of it. Check out how much crisper the reticle and steel tower is @2:26 through the Vortex. I have several Vortex SE 5x25-56 scopes, and i had (key word, "had") the Arken EP5, and sent the Arken EP5 back because it sucked passed 16x. Not to mention, Arkens customer service sucked. I`ve never once had to send a Vortex back.
I've had to send my vortex viper hst in twice. 0 times for the Arken. Glass quality representations via camera are terrible ive had a Arken look better on camera than a nighforce, just because thr camera was better able to work with the way the arken is designed, using this camera sydtemni wasnt even able to get a full sight picture with my primary arms GLX. Arkens customer service will likely never be what Vortex is, they just don't have the manpower
You know what diehard arkbois do when their shit has issues? They straight up just put it on clearance at ebay bcuz reaching cs is no different than playing the lottery………IF you do the “order buy it now” contact method, you will get almost instantly a salesman…..but contact for help…..its fuck u, thanks for playing”
I been wanting the athlon ares etr 4.5-30x56 for my Tikka tac a1 in 6.5cm. However this is tempting. What are your thoughts out of those two? I know either will out perform me as this is my first bolt gun.
hi SVT, I have the Tikka tac A1 (working on a review) its an amazing rifle, likely one of the best production rifgles out there. the Ares ETR4.5-30x50 should be a great optic, assuming its somewhere in the middle fromt he ares btw and the Cronus. so far Athlon hasn't disappointed yet. i don't think you can go wrong with Athlon
The Athlon Ares ETR is hands down the best Chinese made scope money can buy PERIOD. It's glass is noticeably clearer than the Japanese EP5 glass. Doesn't make sense for Chinese glass being superior to Japanese glass but it's true in this case. It is very hard to tell the difference in clarity between the Ares ETR and Cronus BTR too. The Ares ETR is THAT GOOD!!! NOTHING else made in China compares to it including the EP5.
There are other Chinese made scopes that have better glass than the EP5 such as the Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50 ($500-$600) which has perfect tracking and also the Burris Signature HD 5-25x Creedmore ($650 with rebate from Sportoptics). If you have the $1000-$1200 for the 4.5-30x56 Ares ETR Is say that's your best bet. You'll probably never think of ever replacing it unless you want to spend double the money to upgrade that one later on down the line.
I'd specifically go and buy the Burris Signature HD 5-25x50 6.5 cm reticle for your gun. It can be found for around $600 or less and there is a $50 Burris rebate if purchased by October 31, 2022. This Burris Signature HD scope has nicer glass than even the Athlon Ares ETR that cost double the price and the Burris Forever warranty can't be beat.
** if you are looking to pick one up check out this link:
~~~~USE PROMO CODE: EPIKARMS ~~~
EP5 5-25x56
bit.ly/3Ed93rz
SH4 Gen2 6-24x50
bit.ly/3zYG5cI
for the Vortex Strike Eagle:
amazon: amzn.to/3fpjDNd
Optics planet: alnk.to/e74JVNd
PSA: alnk.to/87WYA4j
Brownells: alnk.to/60XSOhZ
Euro optic: alnk.to/clVa7Fs
What height rings did you use for the arken?
mdt medium height 34mm
I bought a used vortex scope. Only after i mounted it did i learn it was bent. Sent it to vortex for service. They shipped me a brand new one of the next gen. Customer for life!
That's what I'm talking about.
For the average guy on the street with limited funds, Vortex really is a no-brainer, all else being roughly equal.
I have a Strike Eagle 5-25x56 & am extremely happy with it's performance. The added reassurance of Vortexes no-fault warranty should I accidently damage the scope is just icing on an already excellent cake.
The 4-24x50 Strike Eagle for $299 is really hard to beat for the money. It's still a better deal compared to the EP5 at $424 last months August 2022 sale. $289 and $299 for sale SH4s now September 2022 the 6-24x is junk even for $299 or $325 with combo pack, the 4-16x50 is ok for $289 or $315 with combo pack way better image quality compared to their 6-24x.
I've heard about many good stories about people buying used Vortex scopes even broken ones for cheap with seller disclosure to send in fir a new one and indeed got brand new replacements no questions asked.
@@commonsense5709 arken smokes vortex
@@MrCstone1 Can't wait for the new Arken EPL4 should be a real game changer!!!
Arken has been running a combo pack special for months. Rings, Scope caps, Throw lever, Shooting bag and patch for $20. If you buy a scope. ($170 off.)Japanese glass. They have low overhead. No body comes close for the price.
Cannot beat Arken honestly. I have two and just ordered the new 7 to 34
Am I the only one that thinks the vortex still picture looks sharper?
Vortex looks sharper but it seems to pay for it with more chromatic aberration.
Panther Hollow has video reviews for side by side scope comparisons
How could you tell from this guys shitty review both look like shit
I definitely like the Vortex , it looks more clear to me
No. I have seen tons of people say the vortex is better. And tons sayimg the Athelon and Arken are. I think it is probably because at the $700 to $1000 price point the QC is less consitent.
Its nice to watch neutral reviews instead of reviews from people that are afiliated to a spacific scope manufacturer no names mentioned lol, please dont be tempted to go down that route, every review i have watched from you so far has been non biast, keep them coming.
thanks Steve, I try to keep it unbiassed. Some of the the optics are provided for review by the companies under the agreement that I will be providing an unbiassed review. The agreement with them is that if its a complete failure of a product and would be represented as such I return the product and no content gets created at all. If the product is average/good/ great then I produce a video and represent it as such. also I research the optics long before I make the request so i already have a really good idea of the QC. Ive had to return some optics to companies without completing reviews in the past they were so bad. other than that. if i buy the optic good bad or terrible I demonstrate it in the video. otherwise it would not be possible to get these reviews done. also for my review It try to support my observations with proof, such as glass clarity/ tracking ability ect thanks for watching!
After doing a lot of research over these two scopes, I went with the Vortex. But I should also say I went with the New 3-18 X 44 34MM. It's a lot lighter than either of the 5-25's and perfect for a DMR. The tightness of the diopter setting and the parralax on the Arken you spoke of, that's not an issue and in some cases maybe more desired because once you set your diopter setting most people don't mess with it and there's really no need to unless your vision changes. And you don't want your parallax accidently moving either. That I like on the Arken. On two of the 30 videos I watched on the Arken there were complaints about the chromatic aberration within the Arken and the guy sent it back. Then sent him another and it too had just as much chromatic aberration. I have had several Vortex, I have two Trijicon's, and two NF. I've never had a problem with any of them with the exception of a PST 6-24 a few years ago that wouldn't hold zero if bumped, so I sold that one. I love what Arken is doing, but their price is what it is because of the glass they are using I think. All the other features of their scopes are great! But the glass is what keeps their prices where they're at. If they used Japanese glass instead of Chinese, their scopes would be $200 more than what they are now. But In a few years if Arken is still around and I'm in the market for another scope I'll look at what they're doing. We all love great products and the more companies there are the more prices come down. Competition does that in a capitalist society.
The EP5 is using Japanese glass.
The feel of the turret clicks wasn't mentioned, but the Arken mechanism is all metal and the clicks better than my $3500 Kahles!
I also prefer the larger numbers on the Arken turrets. Buy whatever you want, but I have now put the EP5 on all my LD guns (4) and paid for them by selling the Kahles.
I’ve got 3 SE’s. They’ve all been excellent for what I do. Haven’t looked through an Arken, but it seems to be a good optic. Vortex’s warranty speaks for itself. Great company!
In this price range, warranty/customer service is the biggest factor, followed closely by glass quality. Arken is one of a dozen new "companies" selling rebranded scopes supplied by the same Chinese manufacturer that supplies Monstrum, Swampfox, Athlon, cheap Burris, cheap Bushnell, cheap Vortex, cheap Sig Sauer, Simmons, Barska, etc. The difference between scopes flooding the market is how good is customer service, how serious are they about their warranty, and how good is the glass/tracking. Gimmicky features mean nothing if they are poorly optimised or flaky in terms of durability.
@@hochhaul What is your top pick for a $500 - $800 optic?
Get much more if ya spend $1000 ?
Pleasantly surprised. Nice fair review. I'm an EP5 owner. Very happy with my EP5.
I have several Vortex scopes, including the Venom and yeah, the Rev Stop does limit the MOA adjustment. I have also a Diamondback Tactical and one of the "cool guys" told me that was a trash scope.
However, I also have some Arken SH4 Gen 2 scopes, which were cheaper that the "cool guys" like better. So, I get heat for buying an inexpensive rifle but a cheap scope is okay. Good thing I am not an expert. I am so confused.
I like these reviews because they are honest and allow you to decide which is more important. Clarity and travel? Streamline.
One advantage the SE has over the Arken is that it does not have turrets that slip on you. With Arken, you need to use some Vibra Tite on the screws to help the hold. Arken tech support told me that and it has worked.
Yea, there are a lot of brand snobs and elitists in this hobby. If it works for you that is all that matters.
I just bought a Vortex Diamondback 6-24X50 (for a 308 rifle), and I am a bit disappointed, chromatic aberration is quite high after 16X, and the turrets cliks are not very precise. I know that it is not a high class scope, but I realized after my purchase that the Arken SH4J offered a better glass, zero stop, an illuminated reticle, for the same price. I go and use my Vortex, but I think that I'll get an Arken EP5 on next year.
@@keplergso8369 I did not have a problem with my Diamondback Tactical scopes (I have more than one.) However, the Venom has become my favorite because of the luxurious eyebox. And the fact that the turrets do not slip and do not require a thread locker.
That being said, Arken is also a good scope. Just make sure you get some Vibra Tite for the set screws on the turret. More than one person besides me has noticed the slipping turrets problem. And I got the Vibra Tite idea from Arken Tech Support.
Its a hard choice for me. Ive been a Vortex fan for years. I've had quite a few and used quite a few. All the way from Crossfire II to the strike eage and Viper. They have been loyal to me. One had 1 issue with the Crossfire II and they sent me a new one with absolutely no questions asked. Even sent me a return label.
My deciding factor...I am looking to get an Arken. I have an Athlon now. I have had Vortex in the past and my favorite thing is the warranty because I have used it 4 outta 5x. That single Vortex is the only optic I actually say a prayer over before I stare through it.
I am a big Vortex fan. I have not had to return any scopes but did have to return a red dot and a pair of binoculars. The red dot was their fault. crappy build. The binos were my fault. Dropped from 4 feet onto concrete and it knocked them out of alignment. Both were replaced with upgrades to what I brought in. I just ordered an Arken 5-25 qnd a KRH BRAVO chassis for my Tikka CTR
@billmartin5709 how have you like the Arken?
I feel like the color/contrast is better on the SE and the Clarity on the Arken wins out, IDK if anyone can agree with me. I always heard that Arken scope has limitation of lens coating issue thus cased the color tone to get muted epically in longer distances, and for the purpose of the scope I personally prefer clarity (to make out the objects easier)over color/contrast.
Try the Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50 for $500-$600 depending where you buy from.
The EP5 is ok up until 20x magnification.
@@commonsense5709 I had one on order until I looked through my buddy's. That eye box was SMALL!!!
Went with the arken. I'm not sold on the lower end vortex stuff
I can no longer recommend Chinese made Vortex scopes after several failures due to very poor QC among several of their different lines of Chinese made scopes. I still recommend their Japan made ones when they go in sale for 40%-50% off or at least with their 40% off military law enforcement discount.
I have both of these in MOA. I started with the SH4 and wanted an upgrade with more magnification. I went with the strike eagle. I did notice the features are a little smoother on the Vortex, but I immediately hated how much of the adjustment to zero stop used. I missed the large font on the arken turrets and other minor things. I then ordered the Arken EP5. Not that the SE is bad, but if you got used to an Arken, its hard to go to the SE as long as you dont mind the extra bulk and weight of the Arken. I cant tell much difference in the glass personally at full magnification or low light but the vortex does seem to have brighter colors (if that makes any sense). Both great optics, but in my opinion, save some money and go with the Arken.
Nice comparison overall. But I think a better comparison would have been between the Vortex Strike Eagle 3-18x44 and the Arken SH-4 Gen2 4-16x50.
I own five of these and all of the guns are sub moa at a thound yards and the 300 win and 7 prc are also sub moa at 1800 and 2200 yards. These are very functional and gret clarity.
I have my second ep5 scope on its way. I have been torture testing and beating the crap out of this ep 5 on my 28Nosler with the muzzle brake off of it. Over 65 rounds now and that scope with Arken rings are rock solid. Regarding warranties I think anybody would rather have the darn thing go out the door late and have quality control take the time to do it right the first time so that we are not inconvenienced with a return. I like warranties but don't want to invoke them unless I absolutely have to. I think Vortex counts on that and it's a shame because they used to be so good. I promise you you can't go wrong with this budget ep5 scope. It's a tremendously good value! I do use your links because of your quality videos!
I got a Dimond back tactical 4-16x for elk hunting and absolutely love it. That thing has gone through more than any scope should be expected to endure and it kept its zero. That being said im looking at setting up a sass type rifle and have heard nothing but good stuff about the arken scopes. Thinking im going to try them out.
I need to try out one of those Ep-5's
Did you buy your EP5 for $424 last month August 2022 sale? They are ok when used up to 20x.
Something that you didnt cover when you discussed illumination is that the arken only has the center cross illuminated, whereas the strike eagle has the whole tree illuminated. For me i prefer the whole tree, so that may be a decision maker for others also.
Correction on lumination mine hase 12. And the warrenty is the life of the scope not the person that bought it so my grandson can get a bran new replacement 100 years from now. Vortex has to have a recite from the original purchaser.
I have both of these and they are completely different scopes so why people try to compare them is beyond me The Arken is a beast, heavier chunkier but shorter, a no nonsense long range target scope. The Strike eagle I can get away with on a hunting rifle. In UK Strike Eagle is over £800 and the EP5 £480 again big difference. If you want a no nonsense long range target scope ...I cannot believe the bang for your buck the Arken gives you, you can't go wrong
Picked up an Arken for $394 on sale to throw on my .308. Im happy with it
Check out Rex Reviews comparison between these two. He did a much more thorough tracking comparison. When the Vortex started nearing the outer edge of its travel, tracking went to shit. Meaning it just quit moving the reticle even though the turret was still clicking. You can't tell me that didn't produce a loss of zero. The EP5's have much better mechanicals and tracking and as this channel concluded, the EP5 also has better glass
The comparison was with the Venom, not the Strike Eagle.
EP5 is ok up until 20x.
Rex reviews, the man that says the Arken is beter than 2 to 3k scopes, he needs to take his head out of Arkens arse lmfao
So here's the deal I have both and the Vector Optics Continental scope beats them both. I have them in 3-18x50 and the 5-30x56 90% light transmission and smooth in all movements. It's better than some other scopes I have that cost $1700.00
just got my second EP5, great scope, and as of today, they have a bundle with rings and some other goodies for 30-$40, don't remember.
Wait for their next EP5 sale. Last one August 2022 was for $424. Currently September 2022 SH4s $289 and $299 or $315 and $325 with combo packs. Get the 4-16x50 $289 is better than their 6-24x is kinda junky.
Best to go with their one piece cantilever scope mount instead of the two piece rings due to potential breakage.
Thanks for the review. Two sweet optics, would be hard to choose one. I'd probably side with the Arken, a few features edge out the Vortex. It's nice that Arken has the EP5 in stock now with no delay.
Last month August 2022 EP5 sale $424 did you buy one? It's ok up until 20x. Not sure if it's really worth $500 though.
I saw the Arken as more crisp as well, but I tend to run over my scopes with my truck all the time, so...
lol then your choice has been made! haha
Yeah it's pretty nuts you can buy used and even broken Vortex scopes and they just send you brand new ones under their lifetime warranty.
@@commonsense5709that just tells you how high their profit margin is lol
Thank you for your review!! I ended up ordering an EP-5. Should get it in my hands on Tuesday.
Have you ever reviewed a Monstrum G3 5-25X50? I would like to see how that one compares to these two.
Stay away from Monstrum Tactical. They BS you on the warranty and don't have reliable tracking just plain junk just like WestHunter.
How do you like the EP5 glass on 25x magnification?
I like it very much!! However this is the first scope I’ve purchased that went to this magnification so I don’t have much to compare it to. I am very happy with my purchase.
Congratulations on your video! a question for you, between a Riton Conquer X1 6x24x50 FFP scope and a Vector Optics Continental 5x30x56 FFP, which one would you recommend?
The Arken EP5 glass is just blowing the Vortex Strike Eagle away on my laptop, and there is just so much Chromaticaberation in the Vortex lenses then there is on the Arken EP 5, however, the image appears much larger on the Arken EP5 as if it were on a higher magnification. in any case the image quality is not even close on my laptop, given the camera is much different then actually looking through the scope. thanks again for another godd comparison, how about them T's ?
Chromomaticelebrationdiabetes... I agree
Great comparison. In my opinion they are very close in all aspects except price and warranty. So it kind of boils down to use. On a precision rifle that doesn't see much rough usage, I'd go for the Arken. If you use it more for hunting I'd pay the extra for the Vortex because of the warranty but be mindful, I've seen some reviews recently that mention the Vortex warrantee isn't what it used to be. I don't have any personal experience on the subject but think you should keep it in mind. If you reload, $150 could mean quite a few rounds of fun despite recent prices for components.
Vortex has no fault accident warranty if you accidentally destroy the scope you get sent a brand new one.
Arken has the same no questions asked warranty. Only difference is you probably won't ever have to use it unlike Vortex.
@@tysonralston4288 HAHAHAHA you will definitely need that warranty with the no-name Arken scope. They're only a few years old because it's a pop-up company buying bulk scopes from the same Chinese scope plant that makes CVLIFE and Swampfox scopes sold on Amazon. They literally just buy warehouse space in the US, register a brand name in the US, and buy $150 scopes that they turn around and sell for $500 on Amazon. Their customer service is minimal and just enough to keep the 1 star reviews off of Amazon by handing out blemished scopes as new replacements. There is a reason that are a dozen no-name scope companies that have popped up in the last 10 years. Arken isn't a scope company, they're an Amazon reseller with a logo.
Tre biennn
noticeably less CA on the Arken. Thanks for the great comparison.
I have the Arken EP4 6-24x50 and it eats both of these.Bad part of Votex is the warranty is needed too many times.I want one that I dont need to send back.
Glad to see you posting. Some of best videos for me to watch!
thanks Trent!
Great video 👌🏽
But …. Does either one have Stainless Steel Internals In The Turrets ???
Many companies use stainless steel and brass construction for their turrets. Nobody uses only100% stainless steel for their turrets.
Vortex for me
Hi Alex, a review of the Athlon Ares ETR 4.5-30x56, or the Delta Javelin or Stryker would be cool interesting🤔
hi Lucas im working n a review of the Delta stryker shortly! i dont have anything scheduled for the athlon or the javelin
@@EpikArms oh, thats cool. Looking forward on you review on it🤗
The Javelin is the Ares ETR and the Stryker is the Cronus BTR. Just different brand labels and different warranties. Athlon has lifetime warranty and Delta does not.
This was very helpful.
Great review. I have both of them and love ‘em both
I have sh4gen2, only thing I can say so far, is when I take it outside, the ocular lens fogs up. On the outside, not the inside. No other scope i have does that.
WARRANTY!!! AND Hope they pay round trip shipping and it doesn't take half a year for your reimbursement!!!
Did Arken send you a prepaid return shipping label for warranty return? They are known to do this so the customers aren't out if return shipping money out of pocket. Is personally ask to upgrade to their better EP5 or one of their new lightweight EPL4 scopes and pay the difference due to much better glass quality and hopefully a lot better QC in their higher priced models.
@@commonsense5709 well it gets moisture on the outside of the glass if it's really humid.
@@H.R.6688 I would contact Arken and request for a return shipping label to send it in under warranty.
So buy the kit with the moa one peoce mount and level and handel to adjust magnifigation scope caps that are way over the top on prformance and qaulity a top of the line cap that i wear with pride a shirt. Does the vortex even even offer that at 140.00 more. Yep the arken ep5 tops.
Need a review on the woox stock. Looks nice.
It's kinda steampunkish. I like it.
The Arken has better clicks, cost considerably less, and doesn't loose any elevation if you use the zero stop. When I'm ready to buy, my money is on the Arken.
The only thing I do not see touched on is the eye box. The vortex wins hands down here. The Arken is the tightest I have ever experienced in a scope.
I wanted to update my reply. I went ahead and took the arken plunge and bought an ep5. It is a very solid scope with good glass. The eyebox is not as bad as I originally thought when I first looked though one. I just takes some getting used too. I would recommend this scope.
Now primary arms GLX series sucks the 2.5 raptor was defective the 4-16 and 6-30 view looks just like the Arkens so I wasted almost $1900 bucks but the best primary arms I’ve owned is the SLX 5-25x56 34mm super crisp glass and eye opening out to a 1000 meters and I only use Strike Eagle for my 4 hunting rifles
Appreciate this review champ.
Arken has a 6 to 8 week lead time on a couple models as of now
Great reviews. Tried to order the Arken scope, but they do not ship to Canada.
rangeview sport will have them in Canada shortly (they are on pre order) also as another goo option thats 100$ cheaper theres the Vortex Venom 5-25x56 less internal adjustment but still pretty close in performance
Which you think is better Arken EP5 or Element Titan ??? Especially glass clearance and quality ? And overall
IMHO the Element Titan aren't really worth paying $799 for. They might be worth buying for $550 which was their most recent sale price though last month early to mid November. Several dealers are willing to sell Element brand scopes for a lot lower than MSRP if you give then a call over the phone. Example Element Nexus $1000-$1100:and Helix SFP $275 and $325 FFP 6-24x50:and $330 FFP Helix 4-16x44. You can also get them for free if you agree to post a favorable review while some other dealers offer half price for a good review. Just stating the facts. Arken scopes on the other hand have a better marketing system where the UA-cam reviewers get paid commissions through their UA-cam affiliate links and we're getting paid $50-$100 per scope sold through their own link. I don't know how much they get paid today since they recently lowered their scope prices across the board. It used to be between 17% and 25% commission per scope which is understandable when the SH4 were $450 (Now selling for under $300) and the EP5 was $570 or $580 (Now selling for under $450).
Wow , what make of rifle is it in this video ???
I think it would be cool to see a comparison between the vortex venom and the athlon helos btr gen2
You're better off buying the Athlon Midas Tac 6-24x50 for around $500 instead of the Vortex Venom and Athlon Helos. It's a superior scope in comparison.
I’ve got plenty of Vortex scopes ranging from strike eagle, viper lr, viper pst, and razor line scopes. I also have this Arken. I feel that this Japanese glass is more on par with the razor line. It’s slightly better than my viper PST in glass quality and definitely way better turrets. I don’t feel the strike eagle is close or comparable
When I was comparing a friends Arken 5x25 to my PST Gen 2 I felt the opposite. The PST was definately sharper and had a much better eyebox. Now turret wise the Arken hands down.
I own both and the Arken is far and away a better scope, especially the glass. BTW, why do you have Arken rings on the Vortex?
Likely because those were the o ly spares I had laying around
I leaning towards the Vortex Diamondback. Little less money, but good FFP optic.
I have 2 of the Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50 and would strongly recommend paying just a little extra to get the Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50 ($500-$600 depending on where you buy from and if you can find them for $450 anywhere still). It's hands down a superior scope compare to the Diamondback Tactical. It also has a zero stop which the Diamondback does not. If you are a real die hard Vortex lover then for $679 the PST gen 2 (regularly $999) on sale from Midway or if you can still find them for $500 on sale elsewhere.
I have the Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50 and thought it was ok for $350 until I bought the Athlon Midas Tac 6-24x50 that literally blows it away in optical clarity and tracking plus has a zero stop. I paid around $450 for it last year and they're well worth the $500 to $600 today. It's just as good as my Athlon Ares BTR that sells for $850 but without the illumination. The Midas Tac also blows away the Arken EP5.
Someone in our shooting group recently bought an AYIN Reaper FFP 6-24x50 for $159 shipped and it's a better scope with much better glass with superior turrets when we compared it side by side to a Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50. It's also made in China just like the Vortex Diamondback Tactical.
Does the Arken have a 100% lifetime warranty and top notch customer service along with providing veterans 40% off on everything they sell like Vortex?
It is unknown if they will still be in business several years in the future to honor any lifetime warranty. That's how it goes with all new start up businesses.
Vortex has already been established and around for awhile now and have been introducing new models regularly and have proven their lifetime warranty guarantee.
@@commonsense5709 Thanks for all the clarification, and the made in China part is a deal breaker for me.
@@donwalker3683 Many big name USA companies sell Chinese made scopes labeled under their own brands. Some companies that don't sell Chinese scopes are Tract Optics, Trijicon, Sightron, Clearidge, Leupold, Nightforce, Zeiss, Meopta, as well as most high end European companies (but not Hawke who only sell 100% Chinese scopes including their expensive $1500 top of the line Frontiers are Chinese).
There are some Chinese scopes that are actually worth buying such as the Athlon Midas Tac 6-24x50 in the $500 price point (Midway currently Sept 25 2022 offers a $200 gift certificate with any Athlon Midas TAC purchase so almost like getting one for $450 but you use the $200 towards your next Midway purchase I'd get the $199 clearance SFP Vortex 4-16x42 Diamondback HP for hunting that's made in Philippines) and Burris Signature HD line specifically the 5-25x50 ($50 Burris manufacturer rebate good until Oct 31 2022) and Vortex Diamondback Tactical (4-16x44 model specifically at $279 or less).
Would love to see a summary comparison video of the Strike Eagle 5-25, Apex 4-32, Discovery ED-PRS 5-25, and Arken EP5, realizing the price range is massive but it would be interesting to see how much better the Apex optics are vs the lower end scopes. (If you decide to do this video, please feel free to throw other scopes in there too!)
great idea!
Hi. I actually have the Discovery PRS and the Arken EP5. Last night I also ordered the SE.
Here is where I'm at a loss to explain.... The SE sells for about $799 most everywhere. However, Amazon sells them for $499. They state "NEW", but I was wondering if they are refurbs or not. Too good to be true?
Anyway, the PRS versus the EP5. Too close to call, both awesome scopes. The PRS amazed me for the packing job alone. It's fantastic. Both of these scopes are BIG. On person said the turrets on the PRS looked like cat food cans. Not far off. This is of no concern to me as I shoot of benches, The turrets on the Arken a slightly more positive. They are almost TOO positive! I also have a SH4 Arken and it's VERY good also.
BTW, this is my 6th Discovery scope and they just keep getting better all the time.
ron
I will take the Arken. Numbers look big enough to not need readers or glasses to make them out.
I'm a little (really a LOT) suspicious of every UA-cam reviewer raving about Arken equipment. If I was a manufacturer, I'd probably also be sending out a lot of free scopes to "review." Besides superior optics, no one can even match the Vortex warranty.
yeah sending out optics is every companys approach to getting the work out on their optics. at this time there is almost no company offering the features at the price Arken is offering. thats why everyonbe is ranting and raving about them. before Arken came along you would pay 1000$ for 32mils of adjustmen and half mediocre glass. they basically forced the industry to recognise that they need to deliver more for less, margins in the scope industry are pretty big, and the big companies were just happy with the original status quo.
Y'all Vortex Strike Eaagle 4-24x50 and 3-18x44 is now $309 on Optics Planet and $329 respectively.. on another site. Had to get both lol. But maybe I'll add Arken LVPO to the collection later l see it's also dropped in price to $400 zone.
I missed their sale when they had the 4-24x50 Strike Eagle on sale for $279 and free shipping earlier this year which was one of the best deals in recent history for a decent affordable scope.
primary arms glx 2.5-10x44ffp rifle scope?
You need a better camera so we can see the differences.
Obviously, Arken EP5 is better than Vortex Strike Eagle, at least for glass clarity,
1:28 vs 1:49, you can see SE has more bluish chromatic aberration, while EP5 has much less.
Reality talks.
Plus its crisp turrets, precise tracking, Arken haters (including some UA-camrs such as Panther Hollow) can be quite now.
Unfortunately, no "EyeBox" comparison.
Look at the second rotation nubers and see how much easier you can see and tell them how much more the arken can dial than the vortex. O yea the arken tracks better and that is way more important that what you just said.
How do these compare with the Rudolph 5-25×50FFP
your rifle is really nice !
Could you describe what it is ?
Thanks! Thats a deadline action IBi barrel, and works furiosa chassis
Ok so for my next build I was thinking the vortex venom, just bang for buck wise seemed like the best fit, but this arken isnt much more, would it be a better choice over the venom?
I have the venom I love it very clear
Been there have them and the Vector Optics Continental line is better.
Why does the Arken appear to be marked 2 at the 4 mil line and 4 at the 8 mil line? Are the Arken reticle sub tensions even correct?
Great review! I prefer the Swampfox Kentucky Long over both. Maybe they will send you one to review!
given that the theres always a -25% arken code its never 550. even 599 now its 450 after the code
Can you do a ($650 with rebate) Burris Signature HD 5-25x50 6.5 Creedmore? Compared to to the Athlon Ares ETR 4.5-30x56 ($1000)? And Athlon Ares BTR 4.5-27x50 ($850)? And Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50 ($500-$600)?
Arken manufactured to withstand recoil from 50 caliber.....30 days to decide if you want to keep optic
Do they still currently offer risk free try it you like it fir 30 days with free roundtrip return shipping?
So does a vortex
EP-5 is now $449. Crazy.
Where?
@@marcelarcis2950 Arken's website. $529 now. Amazon too.
How does the arken ep5 compare to the element titan in your opinion
i did R&D for an optics company for 3 years developing a mil spec scope. No one cares about how stiff the focus is, etc.
There are things that matter on a scope, and 90% of the BS being compared on here is totally stupid.
eye relief
optical clearity
WHAT IS ITS PRIMARY USE....what is it designed for. e.g. ELR, FTR, rimfire, long range hunting, short range hunting, tactical courses, etc.
weight and how this relates to purpose (is weight good or bad)
holds zero
what angular systems are available for the turrets
perfect tracking
zero stop etc.
adjustment range
parallax range and sensativity
zoom range (if applicable)
Retical style and how appropriate is it for the function of the scope.
recoil resistance...what is it rated to.
how tough is it in real world conditions or is it ok for it to be delicate.
If these are not the focus of a review, the review is a car salesman selling you BS because they dont know enough about the topic.
and the most important....WHAT IS ITS PRIMARY USE....what is it designed for. e.g. ELR, FTR, rimfire, long range hunting, short range hunting, tactical courses, etc.
im not singling out the above, almost all the reviews on scopes are like this.
explains why 90% of guys at a rifle range dont know how to use a parallax adjustment
@@pepperoni-prepper
Not to mention fools with canted optics and tryn to use the eye piece to focus😆
I think you`re full of it. Check out how much crisper the reticle and steel tower is @2:26 through the Vortex. I have several Vortex SE 5x25-56 scopes, and i had (key word, "had") the Arken EP5, and sent the Arken EP5 back because it sucked passed 16x. Not to mention, Arkens customer service sucked. I`ve never once had to send a Vortex back.
I've had to send my vortex viper hst in twice. 0 times for the Arken. Glass quality representations via camera are terrible ive had a Arken look better on camera than a nighforce, just because thr camera was better able to work with the way the arken is designed, using this camera sydtemni wasnt even able to get a full sight picture with my primary arms GLX. Arkens customer service will likely never be what Vortex is, they just don't have the manpower
You know what diehard arkbois do when their shit has issues? They straight up just put it on clearance at ebay bcuz reaching cs is no different than playing the lottery………IF you do the “order buy it now” contact method, you will get almost instantly a salesman…..but contact for help…..its fuck u, thanks for playing”
It doesn’t look like the magnification is the same to me
I would buy both. I can do that
The Arken should be like much sharper with the Japanese glass the the vortex China glass!?
Joe,
I have a Colt M4 Carbine. What Arken Scope would you recommend for it.
Thanks, Andy
1-8
can you make a video on your rifle
Vortex looks better. Inside and out. But close enough for a cheap scope.
It’s just to bad you can’t find the arken in Canada
Have you ever compared the Discovery 5x25x56?
Yes, but I haven't published a video on the comparison. In short the fit and finish is better on the arken, but the glass is better in the discovery
I’ve got 2 nightforce atacrs ($4k plus), 2 strike eagles ($1.2k) and a vortex venum ($0.6k). I love them all.
Your link for the Arken EP5 is not working.
Hi sir do you have a outback 3-12×40 vector optic? How much & how can i order?
That's a nice rifle too!
I been wanting the athlon ares etr 4.5-30x56 for my Tikka tac a1 in 6.5cm. However this is tempting. What are your thoughts out of those two? I know either will out perform me as this is my first bolt gun.
hi SVT, I have the Tikka tac A1 (working on a review) its an amazing rifle, likely one of the best production rifgles out there. the Ares ETR4.5-30x50 should be a great optic, assuming its somewhere in the middle fromt he ares btw and the Cronus. so far Athlon hasn't disappointed yet. i don't think you can go wrong with Athlon
The Athlon Ares ETR is hands down the best Chinese made scope money can buy PERIOD. It's glass is noticeably clearer than the Japanese EP5 glass. Doesn't make sense for Chinese glass being superior to Japanese glass but it's true in this case. It is very hard to tell the difference in clarity between the Ares ETR and Cronus BTR too. The Ares ETR is THAT GOOD!!! NOTHING else made in China compares to it including the EP5.
There are other Chinese made scopes that have better glass than the EP5 such as the Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50 ($500-$600) which has perfect tracking and also the Burris Signature HD 5-25x Creedmore ($650 with rebate from Sportoptics). If you have the $1000-$1200 for the 4.5-30x56 Ares ETR Is say that's your best bet. You'll probably never think of ever replacing it unless you want to spend double the money to upgrade that one later on down the line.
I'd specifically go and buy the Burris Signature HD 5-25x50 6.5 cm reticle for your gun. It can be found for around $600 or less and there is a $50 Burris rebate if purchased by October 31, 2022. This Burris Signature HD scope has nicer glass than even the Athlon Ares ETR that cost double the price and the Burris Forever warranty can't be beat.
The Burris will also smoke the Arken EP5 at 25x in optical clarity and resolution there's no comparison.
With arken if you gift or sale it to simeone it is warranted for the life of scope not ownership. If it fails you get a new one.
You must REALLLY Live under a Huge Rock😂
Can you do xtr2 burris to ep5 arken?
Who's barrel are you using?
The clear winner is obviously Primary Arms
WTH, Arken rings on the Vortex scope and MDT rings on the Arken scope.
Cuz the arkshit rings suck and it was pulled from the trash spare parts bin
GLASS IS MOST IMPORTANT
You forgotten things like size and weight.
What rifle is that