Budget Scope Battle Part 3 - THE GLASS - Vortex Venom VS Arken EP5 ~ Rex Reviews

For THE REAL D.O.P.E., subscribe to the TiborasaurusRex Patreon page! / tiborasaurusrex
In this video Rex performs a comprehensive optical resolution and glass comparison of the Vortex Venom 5-25x56 and the Arken Optics EP5 5-25x56 FFL MRAD scopes. These are two affordable optics with very similar configurations. In PART 3 of 3 in this test, Rex shares his results concerning the optical resolution in low light and daylight conditions across the entire lenses of these two optics.
Vortex Venom 5-25x56 is available at Optics Planet, use CODE: "Rex5" to support the channel and for specials.
Use Arken Optic CODE: "REX" to match the best deal out there! Here is the link: bit.ly/RexReviews
This page contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of them, I will receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). I only ever endorse products that I have personally used and benefitted from personally. Thank you for your support!
The original music in this video was written, performed and recorded by TiborasaurusRex, an unsigned artist.

[@TiborasaurusRex]

Use Arken Optic CODE: "REX" to match the best deal out there! Here is the link: bit.ly/RexReviews

[@nathanielmilam75]

I just used your code. Got a good deal, the scope is 6-8 weeks out... Thank You Sir.

[@maxsterling290]

For glass clarity, Arken EP5 is on par with Vortex Viper PST gen2; Arken SH4J gen2 is on par with Vortex Strike Eagle. Venom/DB Tactical is lower tier.

[@skyhop]

Could we see the numbers and characterization against a proper tier 1 optic? It feels hard to have context.

[@commonsense5709]

Proper tier 1 optics can range from 8 to 9.5 in rating by comparison and 7.5 to 8.5 in the tier 2 scopes that are the $1500 - $2500 Japanese scopes.

[@commonsense5709]

The Chinese Athlon Ares ETR would probably be a 7.

[@mytube7473]

@@commonsense5709 the EP5 score was 139 and vortex 107, im not sure how you compare that to a 7.5 or 8?

[@jamesbrowning511]

Outstanding information sir.

[@troytownsend1730]

I realize that you have Patrion to answer most precision shooting questions but concerning the Vortex Venom adjustments. I was wondering since one would lose say somewhere around 2 mils by sighting in at 100, then since its only possible to have 18 mils of adjustment with the rev stop, do we still lose the 2 mils from the 18 or is it part of the reason we don't get 22.5 mils of elevation with the rev stop on.

[@FT4Freedom]

Man. I got a Nikon Buckmaster II 3-9x40 on my AR15 pea shooter. $150. Takes a lickin tickin.

[@HarveySidney-r7o]

Johnson Sarah Miller Frank Moore Sandra

[@TiborasaurusRex]

Arken Optics use CODE: "REX170" for $170.00 OFF when your cart includes the Combo Pack (CPACK), Here is the link: bit.ly/RexReviews. *PRICE INCREASE MARCH 16th, 2022* Vortex Venom 5-25x56 is available at Optics Planet, use CODE: "Rex5" to support the channel and for specials.

[@albedo0.392]

I bought an Arken scope because you recommend that to us...I did try to put your code, but nothing happen. Even like that, thank you for the advice....the scope is great.

[@aaroncarey2909]

@@albedo0.392 you have to select your scope, select the parts package add your code and go to checkout. The money comes off of there. Ive ordered problem free.

[@BattleshipSailorBB63]

@@aaroncarey2909 The code worked for me a few days ago as well.

[@TiborasaurusRex]

For THE REAL D.O.P.E., subscribe to the TiborasaurusRex Patreon page! www.patreon.com/tiborasaurusrex

[@rdude1184]

Rex University! Has a nice ring to it!!! Just saying..... Thanks for your time sir.

[@BattleshipSailorBB63]

Thank you for the excellent, categorical breakdown and rating. This was exactly the sort of info I was looking for.

[@deanfirnatine7814]

I use my Arken for hunting, a few ounces extra is not going to kill me. I like the robustness of it for hunting and going through the woods.

[@realtruth4259]

U MISSED IT REX!!!! VORTEX IS JUNK!!!! ARKEN BLEW THEM OUT OF THE SKY.... CHEAPER AND THE TRACKING..... FKN PLEASE... ARKEN ALL THE WAY # TRUTH

[@brndncrbtt]

Nobody has a video of the EP5 is use at long range. Everyone is spewing the fact sheets. Lets see this thing on the rifle shooting at long range. Actual results in practice. Please Rex!

[@nathanielmilam75]

Patrion Brother.

[@Schlumpfblau]

the venom is much better than the arken. Durability of large calibers, glass quality, workmanship and warranty

[@ronbeckybeasley3566]

@@Schlumpfblau wrong. I have both. Arken wins every time

[@Schlumpfblau]

@@ronbeckybeasley3566 I had both and the Venom was much better for me. But I don't have either rifle scope anymore. I now use a Sig Sauer Tango4 6-24x50 instead of both. And that is far superior to the two (Vortex Venom and Arken)

[@shaverlocal]

I have been waiting about a month for delivery of my EP5 and I believe it is worth the delay. I have the SH4 on a 308 and am happy with that purchase. It seems like Arken has certainly made a large splash into the optics community...

[@upland365]

Great detailed three part series I watched them all back to back. But the word “quantify” just about killed me 😂.

[@PARR53]

I own both the SH4 Gen II 4-16 and 6-24 mil/mil glass and I really like them both. This comparison video series just made me want to get the EP5 just that much more. Awesome job Rex.

[@commonsense5709]

Late to the party and only received my new EP5's earlier this month and boy what incredible glass these have. The older ones weren't clear all the way to their maximum magnification but these newest ones are a whole level up. They're clear even at 25x. Their clarity are almost as good as my Athlon Cronus and Tract Toric scopes that cost 4 times the price. I prefer the EP5s with their huge and wide eyebox and sight picture over the Athlon and Tract and of course superior feeling turrets as well. It's like looking at a big screen TV by comparison. These newest EP5's are the most impactful scopes I have ever bought that really surprised me the most. The older EP5'S my friends bought 2 years ago and last year aren't as clear as these brand new ones. I didn't buy any of the SH4J scopes because clarity is most important to me.

[@Jeffsanythingoutdoors]

Always like hearing your reviews I bought the vortext ventom I love it . Can't wait to do some long range hunting I hunt from a tower blind my longest shot is around 515yards at most gravy shots .I had the vortext viper but wanted the 1st focal over the 2end I'll tell ya these vortex definitely get you out there reliably to 500 no issues I don't know past that I've never shot that fare yet but once I get my dope I'm going to achieve my goal of 1000yards. Thanks for all your hard work . And thanks for your services brother.

[@joeleveque8188]

Thanks for such a thorough and concise evaluation. You helped me immensely with making a decision. That was the best review on scopes I've seen yet. Your method is objective, precise and succinct.

[@born2beashooterjosh397]

I must say the Ep5 glass is impressive for the price it’s def above the venom I would venture to say it’s slightly clearer than a pst gen2 but I don’t have a lot of time behind both for that to be more than jus imo or experience I was pretty convinced I’d end up just selling the Ep5 after giving it a try but after my first long range session with it it’s got me convinced I’m not gonna do better without spending the extra $200-$300 for say a Midas tac

[@hochhaul]

I prefer the PST Gen 2 to the EP5. The EP5 is better than the Venom without a doubt.

[@born2beashooterjosh397]

@@hochhaul can i ask why?? I seriously see no reason both warrantied tbe same essentially and the ep5 has tremendously better turrets and zero lock system way more travel as well as as good or slightly better glass i mean i get it has a longer track record but besides that i cant for the life of me understand why someone would pay significantly more for less scope jus bc one brands been around longer than the other i know that their track record as dar as quality and customer service has been superb up to this point frm what i can tell?? Only thing i see that would draw someone to the pst g2 is weight thats it bc the arken also has a bigger tube therefore a better eye box but like i said i dont ha e thag much time behind the pst ive messed with tbem a few times and then wemt back to my arlen and i would choose the arken 99 out of 100 times the one exception would be if i was goi g to use it as a long range hunting acope the pst is more compact and much lighter bc the arkens over built

[@commonsense5709]

There's something about Arkens that give me eye fatigue when using their scopes with both their EP5 and SH4s. It is very unfortunate since they are great entry level scopes with fantastic turrets just their glass doesn't get along with my shooting eye.

[@commonsense5709]

I have the Athlon Midas Tac 6-24x50 and it is also a Chinese scope just like the Arkens and it's a better scope compared to the EP5. The clarity is better and has excellent reliable turrets with enough elevation travel for my needs in a lighter 30mm scope tube and doesn't give me eye fatigue. It was a reasonable price when it was on sale for $450. The Arkens image quality are ok if you use them 20x or less and the 4-16x50 SH4 is their best scope that's actually useable through its entire magnification range.

[@rudolphferdinand3634]

@@commonsense5709 I do recognize your name on many comments concerning scope performance. I will be seeing the why of Arken's scopes a lot of people are buying them. I have read your comments about Arken’s scopes, I tried to stay with an upper-class scope without the pain attached to it; TRACT TORIC scope, plus Vortex PST models (purchased ALL models). Arken’s new model EPL4 4-16x44mm 4-6 weeks wait time. Then I will see what it’s all about.

[@ronbeckybeasley3566]

In a nutshell Arken is killing it. I’m starting to believe they are as good as $1500.00 scopes. They are definitely better than a Vortex. And I was a Vortex supporter for years. I’ve ditched my Vortex for Arkens.

[@collinslangley361]

Grew up on sniper 101 in college. Good stuff for anyone that’s bare bones new to this.

[@CanadaGunTube]

Me too brother. A decade ago? lol

[@Peter-od7op]

Once again best reviews ever. I dont hardly bother with anyone else reviews. I will join soon you deserve it ty so much.

[@commonsense5709]

Vortex are way too overpriced for what you actually get. They are OK wben you buy them for half price whenever they go on sale though. Vortex reliability is questionable but they have the best no questions asked lifetime warranty. If given the same price Id still personally buy the Arken EP5 over the Vortex Strike Eagle and Viper PST Gen 2.

[@ttss5726]

This video was painful to watch. The overuse of quantify is like listening to a cheerleader say, like like like every other word, the annoying ass music in the background which I’m sure is a copyright is just pointless. Why do people insist on playing music and talking over turn the damn music off.

[@SargesAdventures]

Good vid.... I'd put the Strike Eagle vs. EP5 and the SH4 Gen 2 vs Venom IMHO..... Arken takes it slightly over both.

[@communicationiskey-]

Strike Eagle is only 30oz vs 35 & 39

[@RimfireAddicted70]

Now that's a seriously detailed review!!!

[@rkba4923]

The Arken did way better with the turrets; so, I'm glad I bought a 4-16 SH4.

[@hochhaul]

Why? He didn't compare either to the SH4. The SH4 is inferior to both of these scopes.

[@ronbeckybeasley3566]

@@hochhaulI call bs on that. I own both the EP5 and the SH4. The SH4 is just as good as the EP5.

[@hochhaul]

@@ronbeckybeasley3566 That's what poor people say when they bought the cheaper, lower quality scope.

[@thunderamu9543]

I get into the real technical parts of the explanation. The payoff comes at the end after I've digested the numbers and arrive at the same place you do at the "long story made short" summary. Validates my discernment on the subject. Thanks a bunch. Thank you very much for taking the time! I do believe the Arken is going on my Bushy Varminter which sees some bouncing around in the Jeep. The ruggedness of construction and large print format is a winner for me.

[@dondoncatchpole3584]

In english please noone has the slightest idea what the hell your talking about let the scope do the talking vortex is overhyped garbage and thier qc is just awful Arken knocked this one out of the ballpark

[@jameskesler1930]

Great reviews, much appreciated. For comparative purposes, it would be informative to show how your 2 scope comparisons measured up to one of your favorite snob scopes, that way we can see how the price point scopes compare for potential purchase and then how they compare to a benchmark high cost scope. So you could get an idea of what an additional $$$$ actually buys you. Not a compliant by any means, understand that. Keep up the great work!

[@ronws2007]

Awesome suggestion. And I saw an earlier vid where he compared the EP 4 to a Schmidt and Bender and the EP 4 did not glare, where as the B&S did.

[@CaveWyatt]

Yes, that would be damn interesting.

[@commonsense5709]

I'd say just save up the money for at least a scope thats made in Japan such as a Tract Toric or an Athlon Cronus or at the very least a Sightron SIII. Theres a huge difference in the mid priced $850 - $1400 - $1600 Japan made scopes' optical clarity and sheer quality difference compared to the low priced budget entry level Chinese Arkens including their EP5. The difference is huge.

[@bcbloc02]

Your reviews are the best!

[@alloyspeed1889]

Great comparison, Now sh4 vs ep5. Its still apples to apple, one is sweeter than the other but how much sweeter?

[@chrisdarby2233]

Sorry to change the subject Tibo...but have you ever tried Hilux Optics?

[@TiborasaurusRex]

You bet, long time ago.

[@Anonymous-oy5jj]

Mathematical comparisons are unparalleled, well done

[@williamczupryn2642]

Just buy a Hawke Sidewinder. Meet the new boss.

[@FearlessMagpie]

Vortex Venom 5-25x56 FFP is selling @A$690 while Arken EP5 is at A$1200 here in Australia. Vortex Strike Eagle is @$1090 and that might be a better comparison

[@patrickgleason6610]

It's my understanding that the price difference between the Venom and the Strike Eagle is due to mechanical features rather than glass - the Strike Eagle has more adjustment, locking turrets and illumination, but the glass is essentially the same XD glass.

[@tomthompson5963]

@@patrickgleason6610 I owned both vortex strike eagle 5-25x56 and a venom and to me the strike eagle glass is better. At distance the strike eagle was clear from center to the edge. The venom would be clear center but the edge’s would not be clear or as sharp. I got rid of the venom and purchased another strike eagle and glad I did.

[@Severe2jz]

@@tomthompson5963 thanks for that info im so confused

[@shirouta183]

im not sure why the pricing is so different between them in oz here in the states they're both $500 +/- $50

[@SpyderGT]

Great video! Im glad I ordered Arken ep5 after your previous video, just can’t wait to receive it) I was thinking about Venom but I don’t really like how huge it is and after this video no doubt I did right choice. I also got Arken SH4 4-16 and I impressed how good that scope for money. Also after your review of Athlon Ares I bought it ad well ! Thank you for your work

[@commonsense5709]

The SH4 in their 4-16x50 model is the best Arken scope in their entire lineup.

[@Light-ic5pf]

Arken very know how to promote their scopes.

[@matthewcosgrove994]

Watched all three also and excellent review! I have the Vortex Venom which I picked up for $490 (including tax) awhile back. I love the scope and don't see any need to dial Windage so far out that I would have to be in a Hurricane to see any significant degradation in tracking. I just checked Amazon and the Arken is $530 while the Vortex Venom is $418 (both prior to taxes). While I agree the Arkin may have scored higher in your reviews, I like the more streamlined Vortex Venom and the fact that you don't need to mess around with 4 screws to set Elevation Zero (like the Arkin). Of course, I'm fairly new to the PRS arena so my opinion may change over time.

[@garettmatheis933]

Just got the EP5 with the discount code shown right on the product page it was $425.31 (USD) shipped to my door. With a quick search the Venom is $499 + tax pretty much everywhere (could be some sales coming as its nearly black friday)

[@mrredpill3121]

Rex, what do you think about the savage 110 precision 338 lapua?

[@TiborasaurusRex]

Shoots fine, be careful on ammunition selection with tolerances.

[@ronws2007]

And I have an update. Usually, I am the resident Vortex fan boy but I liked all the reviews of Arken and got myself a few scopes. I am used to and prefer the Vortex glass but Arken is good. The Venom turrets don't have the loud click but they are sturdy. The zero stop on Venom works just fine and the zero stop on the Arken is also good, with a proviso that I will get to. The neat thing about the Arken is illumination. And the batteries do go bad. Without doing much, at all. So, bound to fail on batteries. Which is okay, most times, I have not needed illumination, though I understand the theory. FFP reticles are small at low zoom and having a lighted cross can help. Here is the problem. More than once, on the Arkens, the allen set screws back off. It has happened with elevation turret. And most recently, with the windage turret. And the rifle was sitting in the cabinet for most of a month. Because of the design, only the actual turret cover with the markings on it moved freely, the actual turret stayed in place, thankfully. And someone will say, well, just get used to checking the screws and make sure they are tight each time you pull out the rifle for use. I am not banging things around. Either in the cabinet or out in the back room of the house, there is no time it is resting on any part of the scope. Ever. It just lets go. That has happened zero times with my Vortex scopes. Zero. I think it is a design or engineering thing. With Vortex, I zero the system and it is done and ready to use and keeps zero if I keep the same brand and model of ammo, which is my SOP. Federal Fusion 165 gr for my Thompson Center Compass II .308 Win. Granted, the Venom is not illuminated. If that were really important for me, I could find a way to sell the Venoms and get Strike Eagle in comparable range of mag and objective. I know Arken is improving their warranty. And I would repeat what someone else said in support of Arken when they had an issue with a Strike Eagle. I don't want to have to go through a warranty process, no matter how good it is. Zero problems with my Vortex optics. Never really was a need or reason to switch. I may have convinced myself but I really just wanted to see what the stir was about. And Arkens are still good, I think. I have some, if anyone is interested. And some other hard lessons for me. The Compass II stock is great. I thought I could do better with a chassis. I was chasing a fraction of MOA and did not achieve what I thought. I moved it to an Oryx chassis. At the range, I had problems with the adjustable cheek sometimes sinking. And mag feeding problems with the AICS mags. Jams and rounds coming loose. I was already at .5 MOA with the TC plastic stock (with metal pillars for bedding.) On that, I had already built up the cheek with Goda Grip pads and some craft foam and vet tape. And a Falcon Strike hydraulic recoil pad. And an ASR2 brake. I did not get any more accuracy with the chassis and just more frustration. The MDT version is better but they do not make it for TC Compass II or Venture II. So, I put the rifle back in the factory stock and put my Venom back on it. If it works, don't fix it. When others tell you that you are wrong, remember, they voted for a guy who is okay with gas at $4.50 / gal and taking food away from your baby.

[@commonsense5709]

It's too bad that I get eye fatigue when using Arken scopes including their EP5. I'm not a Vortex fan or shill but will buy their Razor 3 as soon as my preferred dealer gets them back in stock again. I'd prefer to buy one Vortex Razor 3 instead of 4 EP5s. I have so many cheap Chinese scopes from Athlon, Vortex, Bushnell, Hawke(actually overpriced Chinese scopes) and many other brands and no longer desire to use them and are just sitting and probably use them later on BB guns and cheap 22 rimfires and wonder why I didn't just go for quality instead of quality in the first place with at least Japanese made scopes. My favorite are March scopes individually hand assembled and meticulously inspected to perfection in Japan and aren't mass produced. It's the only brand that IMHO is truly worth paying full price for.

[@ronws2007]

@@commonsense5709 And I have another update. I really like chassis systems and I figured out the problem with my Oryx. The adjustable cheek kept lowering because I was using the thumb wheel adjusters instead of the original allen screws. Put those screws back in and it stays tight for the cheek rest. A Goda Grip on that to both cushion and anchor the cheek bone. Comfortable and you don't slide out of eye box. I bought a fourth Venom for my Patriot. Took it to the range to zero, which went great. And expertly and completely lost the zero stop ring. So, I wrote Vortex and they sent me one fast, free of charge. Rock on.

[@commonsense5709]

In case you need an additional Vortex Venom 5-25x56, DVOR currently has them on sale for $405. I think the sale is good for another 4 or 5 days.

[@albedo0.392]

I ONLY TRUST YOU , WHEN YOU TALK ABOUT SCOPES OR RIFLES. WHEN YOU TALK ABOUT POLITICS, YOU TALK LIKE A SINGLE MAN BUT YOU ACT AS A MARRIED MAN.

[@TiborasaurusRex]

Right on, stay the course.

[@albedo0.392]

When the governor of Virginia Northam went against the gun rights, you was talking bad about him, you talked like a macho man., but when the people went to protest to the capitol of Virginia then you was in panic(like a 9 years old girl) telling to the people of Virginia: DONT GO...IS A TRAP, FBI SNIPERS WILL SHOOT YOU...DONT GO. What a coward you are. Thats the reason because I say: You talk like a single guy but you act like a married man. I believe in what people do. Please keep talking about guns a d scopes.

[@BendeRosa12]

If you know, may I ask the question? I have an issues with my eyes, and getting in the eyebox quickly. It's always difficult for me. I don't have very good eyes. I looked at a 4x16 from Arken about 2 or 3 years ago, it had an eyebox that I could easily get my eyes into quickly. Sorry, now the question, is the Arken SH4 4x16 as good as this new 5x25 as far as the eyebox. In competition for me, with only 90 or 120 seconds for 10 to 12 shots, with moving 4 or 5 times and getting back into the eyebox, I struggle. So eyebox, then vertical adjustments, then glass. Please don't get me wrong, I love glass. But my other problems are bigger. Can you help? As far as I'm concerned you're the best guy out there on this kind of stuff. I appreciate your efforts.

[@aaroncarey2909]

Ryan Cleckners video on scope setup may help ?

[@TiborasaurusRex]

Its tricky to quantify eye-box, but both the SH4 and the EP5 have a forgiving eyeboc in my opinion. It was much easier getting reticle pics through the EP5 at max power than was the Venom at max power.

[@commonsense5709]

Just keep the magnification on the lower to mid side then you should be fine. Once you go past 2/3 to 3/4 the magnification that's when eye placement becomes critical when using Chinese made scopes.

[@commonsense5709]

Meant to say when using cheaper Chinese made scopes.

[@billwilliams5965]

Thx Rex for the data

[@Jeff_Seely]

Rex, thank you for the review. I am interested in putting the ep5 on a long range 28 Nosler rifle. Do you think that the ep5 with the better arken scope rings are up to the task of holding zero? Also is the eye box under high magnification usable with a magnum rifle like this? Again thank you for all your video content I really love it all!

[@commonsense5709]

The EP5 is ok from 5-20x.

[@north4961]

I like the science 👍🇨🇦

[@APlife764]

I’m really looking hard at the EP5 vs Strike Eagle…I have a SE and currently not seeing comparisons out there

[@vwccrline]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWWmqnlrf6yJock

[@danielbarker9647]

Thank you so much for all you do.

[@dustyoliver171]

Thank you for the comparisons. This is a great format.

[@robertjackson1407]

Thank you 😊

[@aquadonkey.]

Internally the arken is a great scope, but the set screws to hold the turret caps on is complete design flaw. After about 200 rounds from my 30-06 the set screws backed out enough that both the caps just started spinning freely, then after the first time it happened it happens every 10-20 shots now. One time after going shooting i just put the gun in my safe and just from sitting in the safe for a few weeks somehow both caps came loose. I guess arken says to use vibra tite, but if i cant be 100% certain something on my rifle wont work like i need it to 100% of the time i dont use it. Bought a venom to replace it and sold the arken to a buddy. Honestly a shame tho because like i said, Internally the scope was great and the glass was great, but i would always have that worry in the back of my head if i kept using it that the next shot is the one where i have to break out my tools to fix something i shouldnt have to.

[@jaysunkreuze1466]

I absolutely hate Vortex. I used to work for a Vortex dealer and the BS was deep. You wouldn't believe the junk we sold. In fact it was so bad that I had to quit because I couldn't live with peddling such garbage. My friends are still Vortex fan boys even though I tell them the crop I saw because they have no idea how a scope really works, or is supposed to work. They buy it because of the name, which is actually shift. I put Arken on every one of my scoped rifles and have had zero issues.

[@427SuperSnake1]

Considering I paid under 4 for my EP5, it’s the deal of a decade. And I will deal with whatever shortcomings it has. Because no one and I mean no one can beat that price!

[@edparker4721]

Code no longer works. You get free shipping and nothing off now. Bought the Venom for about $100 cheaper than the Arken.

[@Sonny_316]

Vortex Scope is available on optics planet for $499

[@hochhaul]

Yea the EP5 isn't quite competing against the venom when street price is factored in.

[@richardgtallentjr8214]

How good are Hawke scopes? Just on general use rifle not a dedicated long range one.

[@williamczupryn2642]

Hawke new Sidewinder is the best by far!

[@DerekEvan]

Is the Arken ep5 now discontinued? Can’t find them for sale

[@BGInsurgency]

i wonder if the turret tracking issue is a common issue with all Vortex Venoms of this model or if this was a factory defect. With their warranty I'm curious if they would replace it if you bought one with the same issue.

[@Slav67]

Hello and thank you for this video! Question, can you see the mirage with ep5 enough to read the wind? If not what would you recommend?

[@owleyeviews2247]

Bummer when there is a discount code from one of the two scopes…

[@justice1327]

Love it! Keep it up. Any plans for a Trijicon Tenmile review?

[@TiborasaurusRex]

Haven't seen one yet.

[@scarter176]

I would like to see the Tenmile compared to the Arken as well. I have heard good things about this series of Trijicon . Probably need to compare close magnification power to make it real.

[@KoltFin]

What about durability? Say on 300 win mag, 7mm or 50bmg?

[@TiborasaurusRex]

My SH4 Gen II worked fine on the Barret M82A1.

[@tlrinc2343]

@@TiborasaurusRex Is there a quality difference from the SH to EP series or just the wider magnification range?

[@seibrav]

Bought an Arken, thanks for the code.

[@newcreation2521]

Awesome! I knew I was an Arken fan for good reason, lol.

[@michaelhoffman1951]

Hey Rex, they are watching you!

[@born2beashooterjosh397]

U should do the Ep5 vs the helos btr gen2 that’s arkens biggest nemesis

[@Peter-od7op]

I joined

[@mrcbrrr7484]

Would you know if say the choice of rings chosen were too short would Arken swap them out for taller ones considering they came as part of the pack?

[@commonsense5709]

They should if you contact them but I would go for the 20moa cantilever mount for the combo pack.

[@magnumboyz1214]

👍👍

[@scot3864]

My ep5 is terrible in resolution, when elevation turret is moved away from the optical center

[@ertatta]

Contact them & I have no doubt they’ll take care of you.

[@doejohn8674]

Thanks for the review, hopefully Arken will find a distributor for Europe!

[@Jimmykid3]

Have a friend in the states buy it and ship it

[@leticiabraun2909]

Yes, it's completely ridiculous, they just sell them at DOUBLE the price !!! 🤬🤬🤬

[@vwccrline]

Vortex Venom 5-25x56 sells for $499 everywhere?

[@troytownsend1730]

I wonder how the Arken EP5 could be a 3-piece design like the Venom, way more adjustments, yet still track better, even out to the edge of the adjustment parameter It seems the side of the Venom box should read 39 or 40 mils of full elevation and 15.5 full mils of windage. I feel kind of ripped off as a Venom owner, but I must remember that I am a neophyte to long range shooting, and just a few years ago there were no scopes with the Venoms features, save for the Arken SH4 gen 2 at its price range. I can't keep buying a scope every time a better one comes along or any precision shooting tool for that matter., So I may avoid selling to cut my losses and just start shooting and learning' with what I have, but then again, for 50 dollars more the Arken has Japanese glass and is so complete, plus I am not getting any younger? Where's that code again? Oh yeah, I see it..

[@TiborasaurusRex]

In order for something to work effectively within certain parameters, both the design and the execution of that design have to be present. There is a wide wide range of different 3-piece control groups, and they are all executed differently. This makes for a wide variety of specs and performance. Hope this helps.

[@troytownsend1730]

@@TiborasaurusRex It does thanks. There will always be something newer and better to come along. I surmise that I can still shoot ELR with the Venom, just need to use the Christmas tree reticle to get more than 5 mils windage and 20 or 30moa base plus ring height to get 38 mils or more with rev stop installed, of course being careful not to introduce to much elevation. And my eyes and glass quality will determine how far I can see through scope, My eyes are bad so I'm wondering if it's essential for shooters to combine prescription glasses with scope optics to shoot ELR or do prescription glasses cancel out the scopes performance?

[@jeff9062]

I wish Arken would make a smaller, lighter tactical scope. Like a 4-12x42mm ish...

[@deadgame9980]

I miss my old Leupold 1.5x12x30.Bought it late 80s,early 90’s;everything from .22 to AR platform.Operational parameters were all around perfect. Can’t find one anymore..

[@Plainsimple67]

@@deadgame9980 there was 1.2x12x30??!! I never seen or heard of one!!

[@ertatta]

They make a 4-14x52, but it’s still fairly heavy. Supposedly they’re working on an lpvo but we probably won’t see that until late summer or fall.

[@deadgame9980]

@@Plainsimple67 1.5x12x30 Leupold.I bought it secondhand back then;standard crosshairs,gold ring on the bell and and “L” coin imbedded.Old-school,but recoil never phased it.

[@Plainsimple67]

@@deadgame9980 I wish thet made a low zoom to 12 power like that again, all I have ever seen is 3x12.

[@copelanddave]

Vortex venom selling for 499, I wouldn’t buy it for 399

[@williamstorms3262]

Great ‘unbiased’ review 😂

[@ronws2007]

Good reviews and information, as always. I have three Venoms, 2 Diamondback Tacticals 5-24X50mm, and a Crossfire II 2-9X40mm Dead Hold from Vortex. And I have a SH4 Gen 2 4-16X50mm and two of the SH4 Gen 2 6-24X50mm from Arken. All are good and each have strong points. And it depends on what you want to do. And there is some credence to the notion that the EP-5 is more comparable to the Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25X56mm FFP because it has illumination. I think what Rex is saying is it is up to you. If you like Vortex glass better, than it could be worth the extra expense for a Strike Eagle ($799 on Amazon.) Or the Venom ($499 on Amazon.) Arken glass has looked just as good to me. Awesome turrets and zero stop. As Rex so aptly describes, they are indeed, robust. Because I was repeat customer, I got a discount code, as well. And got the combo kit free, and shipping was free because all purchases over $100 have free shipping. So, I got the 6-24 for $487, including rings, level, throw lever, bag. With the Venom, all you get is the scope. Everything else is separately ordered, there are no combo deals on Amazon. So, 70 dollar rings, add a few things. you could be closer to 600 with the Vortex by the time you are done. Which is fine and I have done it. And I have also found the Arken to be a solid performer and quite affordable. An all around scope you can use for anything. Take it hunting, take it long range. I used to worry at times about rifle weight. Then my testicles descended and I learned to carry a man's rifle. So, yeah, the weight is worth the value of the scope. I think this was a valid comparison between Arken EP-5 and the Vortex Venom because they are both budget friendly long range precision scopes. And still hunting friendly when you only need 10x maginification.

[@ericrumpel3105]

Arken is kick'n vortex in the nuts......even compared to the g3 razor blahblahblah,......the vibration in the $4000.00 raz g3 is terrible !!!......as usual......may need to go back for "vsv warranty".....guaranteed to use "very special vortex warranty"....lol.....what else is new - will be 3rd scope for my buddy to send back....lol

[@Semi-J]

Parallax is not been discuss. Avoid ? 3 series of videos you just skip the bad parts. Have you really use this scope in long range? I have to ask because there is no way you not knowing it. I guess this is your way of been honest.

[@aaroncarey2909]

Parallax is pretty much a ball park on all scopes isn't it ?

[@Semi-J]

@@aaroncarey2909 you probably have not use an EP5 yet. The max parallax infinity distance can be reach around 300 yards mark. Once you go over, you are getting off. That’s an challenge when you shoot long distance. Both of my EP5 having same issue and NONE of advertise KZbinr mention about it It is sad a quality channel became ads channel

[@matthewrezuke8130]

The parallax wheel on my EP5 is not accurate at all… focus in at 100 yards the number is on 200

[@aaroncarey2909]

You get in contact with Arken and see what they said ? I've read they have great customer service.

[@TiborasaurusRex]

I certainly discussed parallax, you must have missed that section. To recap what was observed, the Venom's parallax was better suited for fine adjustment close in, the EP5 parallax is better suited or fine adjustments from 200m-infinity. Both knobs were a GO on the ECW check. Both knobs function fine. Cosmetically, the Venom had mushier stops at the terminus of adjustment than did the EP5. There was no 'reverse parallax' after 300 as you mentioned, that is most likely a lack of training issue on your end with managing the optic properly. 95% of untrained shooters misunderstand both the function and purpose of parallax and don't know how to do a proper parallax check. Many shooters think of it as merely a 'focus knob'. It also common for people to respond emotionally to someone not speaking sweet niceties about their pet inanimate tools they have developed an adolescent attachment to. FACTS NOT FEELINGS. You should exhibit zero emotional relationship with your tools. They are just tools. Putting one's identity into equipment, brand, or image is indicative of inexperience.

[@wrarface]

Is something good when you have to follow it up with "for the money" ?

[@rkba4923]

If you want' Tier 1, just shell out the extra $1950+. You'll get a better scope but NOT 5 times as good. Maybe 15-20% better at most. Is 20% improvement worth 5 times the costs? That's an individual's decision to make. If money isn't an object, then buy Tier 1 Optics for $2500 plus and move on. jmho

[@wrarface]

@@rkba4923 He said "for the money" on the optic mount! Also its hyperbolic to shoot straight to tier1. Good can be middle of the road. It's not a complicated question. But there are always those people who seem to get butthurt. After all.... It is the internet.

[@TiborasaurusRex]

Buy Steiner Military series or Schmidt & Bender.

[@TacticalBuffoonary]

@@wrarface You didn’t specify what you were referring to in your first comment. You sound like the butthurt “internet guy” who should stop before you break the internet. Rex did a great comparison with real testing equipment and technical parameters and all you got out it is “the scope mount is good for the money” He wasn’t reviewing or analyzing the mount. For $60 its good’ if it was $150 there are better options. Does that make you feel better now?

[@ertatta]

It would be interesting to see how the Arken stacks up against the Primary Arms platinum/gold, Athlon Ares/Midas, Tract Toric, & Sig Tango 6/4.

[@boxinggloves87]

so much effort and no reticle video to compare them eye to eye..🤦 numbers are just numbers whats Ive seen on other review vortex view was on anothe level..strange🫣😳😂