Arken Optics: Affordable and high-performance eyewear!
Arken Optics was founded with a clear and bold ambition: to democratize access to high-performance optics. The goal is to offer scopes that rival models costing thousands of euros, at a significantly more affordable price. This philosophy represents a true breakthrough, aiming to equip a greater number of shooters with precise and reliable tools. The brand is committed to designing inherently robust optics equipped with the most fashionable features in the world of long-range shooting optics , capable of withstanding the most intense mechanical stresses, including the recoil of major calibers such as the .50 BMG.
Arken Optics Ranges: Let's start with the technical data on paper!
A brief overview of their range, starting with their historical models and moving towards their more recent models.
- The SH-4 FFP (Shooter Hunter) Series : This series is an excellent option for long-range precision shooting at gongs; it incorporates most of the features expected on a true long-range scope:
- A graduated reticle at the first focal plane (FFP)
- A zerostop to avoid missing a lap when resetting
- A solid, one-piece aluminum design
- Correct tracking from a tall target test
- Turrets with excellent visibility and grip
- Turrets graduated in 0.1 mil
The EP-5 Series (notably the 5-25x56 and 7-35x56 Gen 2 FFP) : This series represents the top of Arken's long-distance offering. It features the same mechanical quality as the SH-4 series, but the optical quality of the lenses used is significantly better, resulting in improved contrast, higher resolution, and the ability to observe more detail!
This series has everything a long-range shooter could want:
- A graduated reticle at the first focal plane (FFP)
- Turrets graduated in 0.1 mil
- A zerostop to avoid missing a lap when resetting
- A 34mm tube offering an elevation of 32 Mil!
- Japanese ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lenses
My In-Depth Video Analysis: The 2022 Arken Optics Test
In 2022, I had the opportunity to subject an Arken Optics telescope to rigorous review, the detailed report of which is available on our YouTube channel, under the title "ARKEN OPTICS: WHY NOT?".
I strongly encourage you to watch this analysis for a concrete understanding of Arken's performance on the field.
In this video, I explained how Arken set out to offer the features of high-end optics (often exceeding €2,000) at a significantly more accessible price (between $500 and $1,000). I was particularly impressed by the optical quality , which at the time rivaled that of my more expensive Athlon BTR and ETR. Mechanical reliability also proved to be a major strength, confirmed by a flawless tall target test at 25 milliradians of elevation .
The key features of the ARKEN OPTICS EP5 scope:
- Clear and distinct clicks from the turrets.
- A very simple reset system (three Allen screws are sufficient).
- A zero stop that is easy to engage .
- Overall robustness that can withstand even the most powerful calibers.
However, as with any equipment, certain aspects deserve consideration:
- Weight is a significant factor, exceeding 1.2 kg, placing it among the heaviest optics on the market.
- The bulk of the turrets , especially the one illuminating the reticle, can make storage in some gun safes more difficult. The optics measure 105 mm wide at the turrets! HUGE!
- Impossibility of mounting the scope on a "standard" one-piece mount: Indeed, a protrusion present under the body of the scope comes into contact with the one-piece mount which prevents the reticle from being properly leveled, you will be forced to either use a very tall one-piece mount to have enough play under the optic so that the studs do not interfere, or to use separate rings.
- A crucial point for those who frequently use crosshairs: the FFP reticle calibration wasn't perfectly accurate . My tests revealed that the reticle calibration isn't perfect; where I was supposed to measure 10 mils, I measured 9.8 mils. This isn't a problem for small crosshairs, but it is problematic for large crosshairs.
- The overall size of the optics is very large compared to other, more expensive optics with similar characteristics, such as the ARES ETR from ATHLON.
On the left, the ATHLON ETR; on the right, the ARKEN EP5 7-35x56
Finally, the fine graduations on the reticle (0.2 milliradians) were positioned a little too far from the center, which could complicate quick measurements and potentially alter the shooting position for precise adjustments. Personally, being accustomed to measuring the crosshairs of the reticle rather than the Christmas tree markings, this caused me problems on the firing line.
The 0.2mil graduations on the reticle are shown in red:
In conclusion, Arken Optics scopes are an excellent choice for long-range shooters looking to do some serious target shooting without breaking the bank, and for whom equipment weight isn't a major concern. However, for those who rely heavily on crosshairs for quick target acquisition, or who prioritize maximum lightness, other alternatives might be more suitable.
Arken Optics' Impact on the European Market: A Unique Opportunity
Arken Optics' gradual expansion across Europe is excellent news for the long-range shooting community. More and more distributors are now offering their products, making these high-performance optics increasingly accessible. The brand continues to challenge established conventions, offering a serious alternative to traditionally more expensive brands and allowing a greater number of shooters to equip themselves with high-performance gear without a disproportionate investment.
In summary, Arken Optics has built a reputation as a manufacturer of remarkably robust and precise shooting optics, offering unparalleled value for money. Their ranges dedicated to long-range shooting, particularly the EP-5 and SH-4 series, are a wise choice for shooters looking to optimize their performance without incurring exorbitant expenses.
We invite you to share your impressions and experiences with Arken Optics in the comments section below. Your opinion is valuable to the Bullet Addict community!