Arken Optics is one of the newer names in the rifle optics world. They’ve gained attention by offering features formerly reserved for premium scopes — like zero stops, first focal plane (FFP) reticles, and large adjustment ranges — but at somewhat lower prices. If you’re considering an **Arken scope for hunting**, you’ll want to know which models shine, what compromises exist, and how to pick the right one for your use case. In this guide, I’ll walk through those details and highlight top models to consider.
Quick Picks: Best Arken Scopes for Hunting
- Best All‑Rounder: Arken EP‑5 5‑25×56
- Best for Lightweight Hunting Builds: Arken EPL‑4 4‑16×44 or 6‑24×50 (lighter tube version)
- Best for Long‑Range / High Magnification: Arken 7‑35×56 (if you want extended reach)
What to Look for in an Arken Scope for Hunting
Even though Arken promises feature-rich optics, not every model is equally suited for all hunting situations. Use these criteria to guide your decision:
- Magnification Range: For most hunting, especially in bush, woodlands, or moderately open terrain, something in the 3–16× to 6–24× range is often ideal. High magnification like 25–35× is useful for long distances, but can be overkill where shots are shorter or terrain is rough.
- Objective & Light Gathering: A 50–56 mm front lens is common in Arken’s higher magnification models. That extra light helps in dawn/dusk hunts but adds weight.
- First Focal Plane (FFP) vs Second Focal Plane (SFP): Many Arken scopes are FFP, which means your reticle subtensions scale with magnification — that’s great for holdovers at varying zoom levels in hunting/precision use.
- Reticle Choice & Illumination: Having illuminated reticles (red/green) is often helpful for low light, but brightness should be adjustable. Also check how the reticle lines or subtensions are laid out (e.g. mil‑grid, MOA, VHR / VPR in Arken models).
- Zero Stop & Turrets: A zero stop is vital to quickly return to your hunting zero after dialing. The feel, click precision, and repeatability of turrets matter in the field. Arken advertises zero stop systems in many models. See for EP‑5 models: “zero stop” in their specs. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
- Optical Quality & Glass: Clarity, edge sharpness, color fidelity, and how well the scope maintains performance across magnification levels are key. In user reviews, EP‑5 is praised for clear glass at all powers. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Build, Durability & QC: Because Arken is a newer brand, many users point out that **quality control (QC)** and customer service can be hit or miss. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} Always test your scope (turret tracking, reticles, parallax) when you receive it, and be prepared to return or exchange if there are defects.
- Weight & Size: Heavy scopes are less ideal for stalking or long walks. Some Arken models are described by users as “big” or “heavy” — acceptable for big rigs but less ideal for lightweight hunting setups. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Featured Arken Models for Hunting
Arken EP‑5 5‑25×56
Why it stands out: This is frequently cited as Arken’s flagship hunting / precision model. It balances magnification, light gathering, and feature set so it works well in many hunting scenarios.
- Strengths:
- Good optical clarity across the zoom range — users say “glass at all powers is clear.” :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Zero stop feature in many versions :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Large adjustment range, strong turret travel, and side parallax often included
- Potential drawbacks:
- Relatively heavy compared to lighter hunting scopes
- Because of Arken’s QC variation, batches can differ — you might get a unit with slight defects
Verdict: A solid “go-to” Arken for hunting, especially if you expect shots beyond 300–400 yards. If you get a good unit (check carefully), it offers excellent value for its features.
Arken EPL‑4 4‑16×44 / 6‑24×50 (EPL‑4 light / “light tube” versions)
Why it fits: The EPL‑4 line is more geared toward hunting and general use, with lighter tube designs (“EP Light”) to reduce weight while retaining many of the features of their more premium lines. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Pros:
- More reasonable size/weight for stalking or carrying through terrain
- Still often includes essential features like zero stop, illumination, decent turrets, and first focal plane layouts depending on model
- Many users report strong value: “for $400, I don’t see a better value out there for the features.” :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Cons:
- Optical clarity and glass may be a notch behind Arken’s higher-end / Japanese-glass units
- Some reports that the EPL models lose clarity or reticle visibility at lower magnification (depending on reticle / illumination) :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Again, QC inconsistency is a discussion point among users :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Verdict: If you want a balance between performance and portability, the EPL‑4 line is arguably the best “hunting” line in Arken’s catalog. Just be sure to test thoroughly once you receive it.
Arken 7‑35×56
Why consider it: If your hunting includes very long shots, open terrain, or you want a scope that can double for both hunting and long-range precision work, the 7–35×56 can stretch your reach.
- Pros:
- Wide magnification span gives versatility for close-to-long shots
- Large 56 mm objective lets in more light, beneficial in low light
- Often includes robust features (e.g. side focus, strong turrets) to support extended-range use — see video reviews of 7-35×56. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Cons:
- Size and weight increase significantly — may become unbalanced on lightweight hunting rifles
- At lower magnification, your reticle or optical clarity might be less forgiving
Verdict: Use this if your hunting terrain or style demands extended reach (e.g. plains, open fields). On dense brush or forest, it may be overkill and a heavier burden.
What Users Say — Strengths & Warnings
From user forums and expert reviews, here’s a realistic summary of what people like — and complain about — when using Arken scopes in real-world hunting / precision contexts:
- Positive feedback:
- Many users praise the tracking — that the turrets reliably move and return to zero across use. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Decent clarity and optical performance for the price, especially in mid zoom ranges. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- Good feature-to-price ratios: getting things like zero stop, illumination, wide adjustment ranges, first focal plane in models that are more affordable than many “premium” brands. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- Common complaints / cautions:
- QC inconsistency: Many users mention that some units have defects — e.g. turrets that don’t click properly, parallax adjustment that doesn’t correlate, or minor optical flaws. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
- Customer service mixed reviews: Some report prompt support, others say they got “radio silence” or minimal assistance. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- Weight / size concerns: On lighter rifles or for carry hunts, some users find certain Arken models “too heavy” or less balanced. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
- Edge clarity / high magnification softness: At higher zoom (e.g. above 20×), some note the image becomes soft or edges get blurry. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
How to Choose the Right Arken Scope for Your Hunting Needs
Here’s a step-by-step approach to picking which Arken fits *you*:
- Step 1: Define your shooting distance range: For typical deer hunting (100–400 yards), mid-range optics (4–16× or 6–24×) may be ideal. If you often shoot longer, lean toward EP‑5 or the 7–35× models.
- Step 2: Consider terrain & mobility: If you hike long distances or in dense bush, weight matters. EPL‑4 “light” variants may be your better bet.
- Step 3: Required features: Don’t settle for less than zero-stop, illumination (if needed), and turrets that track well. Even in lower-priced Arken models, these features are often present — but test thoroughly.
- Step 4: QC testing after delivery: When you receive your scope, perform these checks:
- Zero it and dial up/down; see if it returns precisely to zero (repeatability)
- Test parallax adjustment and ensure the markings roughly match focus distances
- Check reticle centering at multiple powers
- Look for optical clarity, edge sharpness, and any aberrations
- Step 5: Balance your setup: Ensure the scope doesn’t make your rifle front-heavy or awkward to carry on long hunts. A heavy, high-magnification scope is great for bench shooting or large rigs, not always ideal for a carry rifle.
Sample Comparison Table
| Model | Magnification / Objective | Key Features | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arken EP‑5 5‑25×56 | 5–25× / 56 mm | Zero stop, FFP, side parallax, wide turret travel | Mid-to-long range hunting, versatile use |
| Arken EPL‑4 4‑16×44 | 4–16× / 44 mm | Light tube version, illumination, zero stop | Stalking, daytime hunts, moderate ranges |
| Arken EPL‑4 6‑24×50 | 6–24× / 50 mm | Balance of reach & weight, similar features | Hunts where you expect to stretch distance but still carry |
| Arken 7‑35×56 | 7–35× / 56 mm | High zoom, robust feature set, large objective | Open terrain, long shots, precision + hunting hybrid use |
Conclusion & Recommendations
If you’re leaning toward an Arken scope for hunting, here’s how I’d summarize:
- Best All‑Around Choice: The **EP‑5 5‑25×56** is a strong candidate. It offers good magnification range, feature set, and often performs well when you get a good unit.
- Best for Lightweight / Carry Builds: The **EPL‑4 line (4–16×, 6–24×)** gives you many features of higher-end scopes, but with a more manageable weight and profile for hunting.
- For Extreme Reach: The **7–35×56** is ambitious — use it only if your terrain, style, or expectation demands it, and your rifle can handle the added front weight.
- Always Inspect & Test: Because Arken quality control is variable, your specific scope’s performance matters more than the specs on paper. Test everything (zero return, parallax alignment, reticle centering) as soon as it arrives.
- Expect Some Trade‑Offs: You may see small optical compromises at extreme magnification or edges, and occasional issues in turrets or adjustments in some units. But many users believe that for what you pay, you get very competitive features. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Final Verdict: If I were choosing one Arken scope for a hunting rifle today, I’d go with **Arken EP‑5 5‑25×56** (or a Japanese-glass variant if available) — and I’d test it thoroughly out of the box. If weight is a bigger concern, the **EPL‑4 4–16×44** is a close second for many hunting situations. Either way, don’t skip the QC checks — they’re what separates a great unit from one that frustrates you in the field.
Tip: Once your scope arrives, mount it solidly, take it out to the range or safe environment, and run all the checks before relying on it in a real hunt. Happy shooting and good luck in the field.