Arken EP-5 VS SH-4: is it worth the upgrade?
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- Опубликовано: 24 июл 2024
- in this video we Compare the Arken SH-4 6-24x50 to the Arken EP-5 5-25x56 two phenomenal optics that have all the features you would look for for PRS or long range shooting at the lowest price. Its my opinion that the options that existed before the SH4 existed were mediocre the big companies slowly offering very small improvements year to year, well this is a new era, with awesome optics at a price that lets everyone compete.
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
So this time I'm going to be comparing both optics the ARKEN EP-5 to the SH-4
they are very similar in nature, the biggest variances being optical clarity with the EP-5 having ED (extra low dispersion) glass while the SH-4 has HD (high density) glass, that and the ED as 10 mils per revolution as opposed to the SH-4's 8 mils per revolution,
for all the info and more watch the video, also if you have any question, comment, i do my best to respond to all questions!
this was our review on the SH-4
• ARKEN SH-4 GEN II 6-24...
this was our review of the EP-5
• ARKEN EP-5 Review: Ame...
SPECS
Lifetime Warranty
Precision Tracking Guaranteed
ED Japanese Glass
First Focal Plane (FFP)
Zero Stop
Specification:
Magnification: 5-25x
Objective Diameter: 56mm
Eye Relief: 3.4 inches
Field of View: 25.3-4.9 ft @100 Yards
Tube Size: 34 mm
Turret Adjustment: 1/10 MIL
Reticle Position: First Focal Plane
Reticle Details: VPR MIL
Zero Stop: AZS Zero Stop System
Zero Reset: Yes
Elevation Adj. Range: 32 MIL
Windage Adj. Range: 16 MIL
Adjustment Per Revolution: 10 MIL
Parallax: Side Parallax Adjustment 25Yds - Infinity
Illuminated Reticle: Red
Turret Rotation: Counter Clockwise (CCW)
Length: 14 inches
Color: Matte Black
Weight: 39.2 oz
Sunshade: yes
Battery included: CR2032
I owned a photography business and have a tip. You need to use something like the top of a sock or something else to keep all the light out from between your camera and the scope. The light entering between the two is whats giving you fits with what you called a milky look, it's nothing more than light getting in. You also need to have both mounted solid with your camera in manual focus. Focus the camera on the cross hairs then use the scope to adjust the image until it's sharp. I hope this helps.
Hi Larry, yes this is something that I have been struggling with. One thing that I have observed: getting the reticle in focus occasionally/usually translates to a blurry image behind it. It is a major struggle to he it sharp. Usually I have the scope focused to my eye on the target in the distance, then mount the tacticam and adjust the occular until its as sharp as possible.... it's super tedious
@@EpikArms Have you tried using a DSLR with something like a 35-135 mm lens?
A fellow photographer! One thing that bothers me about scope reviews. Depending upon the adjustment of the scope, you could be looking through the very edge of the image circle that the scope projects. This really becomes a problem when you install a base with a significant minute of angle adjustment, and then use the scope at more moderate distances. This might not make sense to many of you, but a fellow photographer will understand. Any lens is sharpest in the center.
Just ordered an EP5 earlier tonight. Can't wait to try it out! Currently on sale for $450!
My Buddy and I both just ordered the EP5 for our new Aero M5 308's / AR-10's, 20" barrels! Can't wait for them to arrive!
In MOA how ever, sorry but screw the metric system. I grew up on Standard
Nice review. I also review all the Arken products and poll a lot of shooter both hunters and target shooters. Now trying to convey this without arrogance I've learned really a vast majority of people really can not appreciate let truly notice the minute difference of them, in part as honest shots are not of distance or conditions warranting higher end materials or construction.
update: Arken tech support suggested using Vibra Tite VC-3 or 122 thread locker for the screws. That stuff is made for rifle scopes and other optics subjected to vibration and recoil energy. So, I am going to try that. Granted, I like 5-25 scopes like the Vortex Venom for the forgiving eyebox but the ease of operation and adjustment of the Arken is something to be considered. Again, I have long been a fan of Vortex but I feel duty-bound to give all things equal consideration. I am not compensated by any brand of optics. And I don't care for brand bunnies. In fact, I have had it up to my nostril hairs with people trying to enforce their opinions on me. I still have not noticed chromatic aberration. Then, again, as a few have mentioned, I am not looking at the outer ring of the view, I am looking at the cross hairs or at least a few marks to the side to range a distance based on a tree trunk where I hunt. Other times, I trust the laser rangefinder and dial elevation for distance so that I an concentrate on center.
I still think this scope in the SH4 Gen 2 is a great value but if you are just new to buying Arken, buy the EP5 and it will do everything you ever wanted to do. And yes, you can hunt with it if you have testicles. I have testicles. Call it a birth defect of being born a man.
I think a lot of the complaints about the image quality of any scope is the result of mounting the scope with an extreme minute of angle base. I’m a retired professional photographer. Someone who puts a 50 minute of angle base on that scope, zeros it at 50 yards, and then proceeds to critique the image quality, they are looking through the very edge of the image circle that scope projects. Every lens is sharpest, and has the fewest optical flaws, in the center. For the best possible image quality with any scope, set up your scope base so it puts you in the center of the adjustment range for your most common distances. Just because a scope has 110 minutes of adjustment range does it mean you should plan to use all that adjustment range. Of course if you need it, it’s nice that it’s there. If Arken reduced the adjustment range on that scope, I’ll bet the complaints about chromatic aberration would go away. Everything is a compromise.
SH-4J is better then the SH4. Some say the SH-4J has better clarity and FOV then EP5. Testicles is only one characteristic of being a man and they are certainly no birth defect. Only the truth will set you free!
I have both optics - I bought the SH4 first, and decided to get the EP5 because I had multiple rifles for the optics. I found both scopes to be very similar, but like you, there is a brightness and clarity to the EP5 that edges out the SH4, and the SH4 is a pretty danged sharp. I'm quite happy with both optics, but I've got no regrets on picking up the EP5 over getting a second SH4.
Thanks for this video. I’m getting ready to build a new rifle and I have been having this debate with myself for the last couple of days. Are these scopes threaded for a sun shade?
Hi I love your videos you're very knowledgeable and a very good shot so I thought I would ask you about my arken sh4 4216
excellent video but in practice for the same money the sh4gen2 comes with more with more accessories and I decided on the sh4 gen2
Nice review mate! On the box test you can definitely tell the ep5 glass is brighter/sharper than sh4. Wonder what Arken are working on next 😯
Mate? butt buddy?
Oh mate!
Hopefully some degree quality control and much better glass in all of their models.
Finally, one more person who was willing to admit how good the scope was in his review without being biased about the price and despite how many feelings it would hurt! Subscribed!
Thanks Grey!
@EpikArms how does the ep5 do in low light hunting scenario?
I’ve been using the setscrew type zero stop on my SWFA for years. It’s full proof.
Now if they could make a good budget spotting scope.
Bloom is the word your looking for with the illumination
Im hovering between the Venom, Riton 5 and the SH4. Also have Rudolph optics warehouse close to me. Just cant make the call which one.
Just got the EP5. Love the view through the scope. Eye relief was better than the GLX Primary Arms. Problem is that it's bigger than I thought. I put it on my AR10 and with sling, the turret digs into my side. Im also running cantid red dot on the side also, and this is the biggest problem for me, it blocks a lot of the left side of the red dot and so sadly, I have to take the EP5 off and use Primary Arms GLX 6-24 due to its slimmer profile. But I am NOT going to return the EP5, the quality is really good that one day I will get a bolt action 30 06 and put that on that
@Entertained2036 What offset mount were you using? I am looking at picking this EP5 up for my AR10 and will be using a badger mount with the J arm setup. Or I might so an Arisaka offset standalone mount. Thanks!
@@carryaglock6787 I have the Arisaka offset mount with RMR, Holosun. Also have the T rex arms offset. Both didnt work with the EP5 as the dial blocked too much of the offset mounted sight. Id say the EP5 is a beautiful match with a bolt action .308 but I couldn't make it work with my AR10 offset rig. I actually went with a lesser powered Swampfox 2-12x FFP with parallax adjustment (was a must have to go out past 8x magnification). For super long range, one day, Im thinking of a bolt action .308 with the EP5
@@meejmuas8686 that's good to know. Thank you SO much for replying and helping me out!
After all the videos Ive been watching I agree on the PA set up. I'll use mine as a DMR on my SFAR
SH4 4-16X50 may have slightly lower quality glass but it is perfect for deer hunting. Even me with my Vortex Venom may not go past 10x at 350 yards (longest range shot where I hunt is 238 yards measured in MOA reticle.) And I have watched other channels who do long distance shooting and rarely go past 10. So, the 4-16 SH4 gen 2is perfect for hunting and targeting shooting and at an affordable price. My own problem with the Arken scopes is the allen screws slacking off. I can do nothing with the rifle for a few weeks and find that the turret covers are slipping, hoping that the actual zero has not changed.
Turret covers or scales slipping on my Vortex scopes has happened zero times. Different engineering solution.
The 4-16x50 SH4 is superior to the 6-24x since they use the same glass the 6-24x image quality starts to go bad starting as low as 13x and most at 16x. I think the SH4 4-16x50 is even better than the EP5 as a useable scope throughout nearly it's entire magnification range u like their other models. They obviously put all the money into the turrets but most budget minded scope buyers don't really need nor expect perfect glass at the higher magnification anyways.
Thank you 😊
Hi, will you be making a review on the Arken EP8 LPVO?
I do enjoy a good metric conversion.
Do you have experience with the EPL4? SH4J? Athalon Argos BTR? And Trijicon Huron? This will be going on mostly a Still Hunting Whitetail rifle, that will occasionally do some plinking out to 500-600 yards. Of these what would you recommend for this use? Why?
I've been looking at the sh4 6x24 because it fits my budget. I'm new to the "long range" shooting but I do have a 6.5 prc rifle I plan on using for target and hunting. With that being said...is the sh4 a good place to start into the game ? I have used other long range stuff in the past from primary arms and I was very disappointed they don't offer an accs scope for the 6.5 prc as of yet so I'm trying to figure out a different way to go.
Great comparison! Thanks for sharing!
Both seem to be great value. Just one issue for me; in Australia the SH4 6-24 is $900 (which is actually great value by our standards) while the EP5 5-25 is $1200, which is a pretty sizeable jump.
When the EP5 is only 22% more expensive (i.e. $450 vs $550) it's definitely worth spending extra, but I'm not so sure at 33% more expensive.
Also to quickly extrapolate on your last point about not using a 0 MOA rail on these; if you've got no choice (e.g. if your action has a milled 0 MOA rail) Arken also offers one of the better value 20 MOA scope mounts, so you've got no excuse.
how does it look at max magnification? any blurring or aberration?
Just discovered your channel in stumbling across Arken scopes. If you wanted to get into long range target shooting in both 22 or 5.56 and 6.5 would I be better off going MOA or Mills? I’ve seen some saying the 4-16 is the better bang for the buck since it’s usable across the range where as the 5-25 isn’t great past 18 to 20?
hi Strykeback, i for mils to moa it comes down to personal prefference, also moa click is smaller than a mils click, for me it just comes down to working in 10's like the metric system, for the magnification it depends on the optic how useable the reticle will be at various magnifications, for benchrest i would go with the 5-25X and also if i was doing PRS i would still opt for a 5-25x the reticle becomes less useable at 90x and below but its still easy enought to see the reticle above that
Thanks man. The Ep-5 looks like a nice value. What calibers did you test it in and did it hold zero without issue?
Hi Jeff, yep, held zero without any issue, I have only had it on a 6.5 creedmoor
Perfect! That's what I intend to mount it on if I get it 👍 thank you
Can you please do a comparison between the Vector continental 4-24x56 vs the Arken EP-5?
Btw i think Vector have updated their version with a rev counter that counts 3 full revolutions so you get more of the adjustment range when using the zero-stop.
Oh interesting I'll have to verify the specs
What rifle is that? Beautiful!
I have the EP4 a few of the EP5's and a few sh4 Gen 2. I won't be buying any vortex anytime soon lol.
Hahahaha… love it. I first bought a Vortex, than I found the sh4. Vortex was sold as soon as my Arken got delivered
Meh.., they are ok. They are most definitely better than any offerings from other brands at the price point… but they don’t hold a candle to actual quality optics.
Not saying I’m selling my Arken scopes. They are great. But they are not high end. They are banging value scopes
@@nsboost shit all over any vortex
The EP5 was just on sale for $424 last month with their 25% off sale in August 2022. Their SH4s are now $289 and $299 direct from Arken no codes needed looks like they recently dropped their prices with free accessories pack credited out with their posted code on the top of their website. Looks like they are bypassing all their RUclips affiliate commission links and offering their net payments reflected straight to the customers. That's the $150 in commission per scope they won't need to pay out. Remember these prices $424 EP5 and $289 and $299 SH4s. The differences are commission paid by youtuber affiliate links and to outside Arken dealers.
The SH4 4-16x50 is the best scope in their entire lineup. The magnification is useable almost throughout it's entire magnification range unlike the 6-24x where it starts tomorrow go bad startingas low as 13x to 16x since their quality control varies. The EP5 should be fine until 20x and most people don't need or expect perfect glass at high magnification anyway in a sub $500 scope. Some reported as low as 16x where their image quality started to go south.
Hi there your opinion element titan or arken ep5
I'm not alone in thinking Arken is coming out with something to replace the sh-4 because they have been dumping them at 30% off for over a month which ended on Father's Day. Don't get me wrong I bought two :-) the 4-16 and a 6-24.
With that sale the sh4 was $325, for the 6-24 x where the ep 5 when it finally comes in will be 560 Plus. It seems they often run sales like this if not a discount where you get a package worth approximately $170 of mostly needed accessories are included.
The EP5 were $424 last month August 2022. Their SH4s are now $289 and $299 as of Sept 2022.
Now they have them for less than $300
can i get them from amazon? is there amazon link i could order directly?
Thanks Sir.
Most welcome
Ep5 reticle is a no go for me. That's why I went for the sh4 g2
Sorry hit something wrong with my last message anyway when I went to side in my arken sh 4416 I could not get my vertical Crosshair any closer than one inch left of where I'm aiming without a bottoming out do you have any idea or do you think it's defective
Back off the zero stop its likely engaged (unscrew the top screw a bit)
Subbed! 💪🏼
Appreciate it!!
Planning to buy one of these to mount on a 20 map base on a bolt action rifle. Would you recommend getting the one piece base or rings with the accessory pack? If rings what height?
I would go medium height rings with the accessory pack.
@@EpikArms
What are your thoughts on the SH-4 vs vortex diamond back tactical?
I have both and for the price the diamond back tactical is a great scope to start getting into longer ranges, but the glass quality and turrets on the sh4 really blow it out of the water. Depending on your budget both are good options.
100% agree
On your ep5. What height are those mdt rings its sitting in ? Thx
those would be medium height
Can you please post a comparison between EP-5 and Vortex Strike Eagle? which one do you think is better overl?
You might want to take a look at this vid: ruclips.net/video/WPP-DYhEk_c/видео.html
great idea, I should have that done in a few weeks! overall the EP-5 in my opinion better fit an finish. but i will have to recheck the glass on both
@@EpikArms Hey man! In the next comparison video can you please try to identify the accuracy of the parallax settings on the EP5 I’ve seen a couple videos stating how far off the parallax ranges are. Also can you see if it functions as an actual parallax or a focus ring. Thank you!
Couldn't pass up the SH4 sale for 299.
How well do these work in low light hunting conditions?
they are kind of heavy for hunting use if your hiking allot. or if you already have a heavy rifle
Just wondering if Pst gen 2 vs ep5, which one is better?😅
Pst, is better glass. But ep5 has more internal adjustment
Im not measuring gas line in cm sorry. that's just ridiculous 😂 thanks for the video. I ordered my sh4 before the 2nd EP came out.i have been wondering if it's worth the upgrade
I think mechanically they are identical, comes down to if there is the need for better glass.
pretty much and if you want 10 mils per revolution
What size are the square targets yiu shoot at 12x12?
yes sir 12x12
They're great scopes if you can get one. Too bad they aren't waterproof like the box says. Some of my hunting and yes it's more of a tactical/target scope, involves crossing creeks and rivers. But when a company claims its waterproof and they are not... I get turned off very fast. Toss them in a tub of water for a bit. They'll send you a new scope I'm sure but they still shouldn't get wet.
it has been reported by a few reviewers and people that it has been an issue
Which one leaked? SH4 or EP5?
How would the ep5 compare to a viper pst gen2?
Glass in the ep5 is good almost like the strike eagle but pst gen2 better than the ep5
@@EpikArms I appreciate the quick reply. With the ebr2 reticle vipers being discontinued and $350 cheaper than the same optic with the ebr7 they seem like the best bet but I was hoping the arken might come close and save me $120.
i can only find a couple vendors in canada... and, damn they're pricey! and over 200.00 diff between the ep5 and sh4. i see one in my future but, Damn.
Ordered a SH4 plus combo pack from their website 3weeks ago. It was 30% off at the time. Had to have it shipped to an American friend who then shipped it to me. $CAN 698 total, including shipping. Thanks American Bro!
@@cleo8086 very good buy!!
Sh4 gen 2 6X4x50 is now 299
You can call it a long range or hunting scope as long as it gets the job done consistently it's the scope I'm going to buy. This same muscle bound guy is not complain when they are adding 5 lbs of scrap metal items to a AR-15. But they complain about 10 extra ozs on a scope that puts you in the meat market.
lol i actually don't enjoy overly heavy AR's a 40oz precision optic on a precision rifle. no problem its supported the whole time anyway :)
I would buy an EP-5 in a hertbeat if it were no heavier than the SH-4 and was SFP.
You don't know how to focus the optic to the camera? It’s done the same way you focus it to your eye. You can tell it’s not in focus because even the crosshairs are blurry.
Yep, I'm pretty familiar with how that works unfortunatly if the reticle was perfectly clear the image in the background wouldn't be as clear
Too much magnification for me. They need to make a 4-20, or even 3-15 in the EP-5
If you are looking to pick one up:
EP5 5-25x56
bit.ly/3Ed93rz
SH4 Gen2 6-24x50
bit.ly/3zYG5cI
USE PROMO CODE: EPIKARMS
how to order
how to order.from philippines
The Arken scopes are NOT hunting scopes. Massively heavy and way too much to lug around. They said it themselves they are trying to reach the entry level long range shooter. Mine weighs 36.5 and my Leupold VX 5 3-15x44 weighs 19.8 as a comparison. My goal for a hunting scope is under 22 and preferably under 20.
Dear, I am a hunter and I have a sh4 gen2 and I tell you that it is a great hunting tool, for that price it has no competition, the weight depends on what type of build you have, no one shoots long distances without a tripod and carries the weapon hanging... . greetings
Both great for the price but the EP5 is worth $100 more... you can have both for $1000, crazy 😜
Two types of countries in the world. Those who use the metric system, and those who put men on the moon.
as i sad before the price is ridicules for the EP 5 in the UK £999
Yes, both Arken's (EP-5 & SH-4) in the UK are almost the same as the "Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 5-25x56" in price so the $700 - $900 range :(((
So would be nice to know which is a better buy the EP-5 or the Vortex glass.
That level is killing me should be behind the ring and not next to the knob......... Ugh
you have a twn brother in blackfoot idaho
Haha good to know!
Well I will say this..While the SH 4 is cheaper..ist is definetly a Down grade..And the EP-5 is an up grade over the SH 4..The EP5 5-25 is a DOWN grade from the bEP4 6-24 in Glass quality. I own all of them. The Arken SH 4 failed the water proof test
the ep4 had better glass than the ep5???
@@garyjohns4711 yep It sure does.The RP4 has Japanese Glass.
I own both.
@@TexasTrained dam i dont think the ep4 is available anymore?
Downvoted and un-subbed for Metric system plug. 😅
Dambthats harsh!
the sh4 has shitty glass, ask me how I know!!!!
Tell me more Gary!
Did you drop it in the toilet?
@@mobilemechmantim773 ya your mommas toilet
@@mobilemechmantim773 lmao
🤔How do you know?