[SHOT 2023] New Arken EPL Long Range Hunting Scopes

Arken Optics displayed their EP Lightweight (EPL) scopes at SHOT Show 2023. The EPL is a departure from their previous scopes and is more suited to hunting use.

[SHOT 2023] New Arken EPL Long Range Hunting Scopes

Two magnification ranges are available in the EPL line, 6-24×50 and 4-16×44. Unfortunately, the 4-16×44 model did not make it to SHOT, so we are limited to pictures of the 6-24×40 model. MIL and MOA versions are available in each magnification range and the reticle is a simple graduated cross hair with subtentions matching the units of the turrets. All reticles are illuminated as well.

Parallax is side adjustable and dials all the way down to 10 yards, which is helpful for rimfire use or zeroing. The elevation turret has a zero stop system and the windage is resettable. The windage turret is capped so that it cannot be bumped or knocked while hunting.

Both versions have 30mm main tubes to help reduce weight. The display models were shown in Arken’s Rigid Precision 20 MOA cantilever base. Buyers have the option to purchase an accessory package including a mount or rings, bubble level, throw lever, lens covers, and some other swag for a discounted price of $42 (if you use the discount code listed on their site).

The EPL 4-16×44 lists for $399.99 and currently has a 6-8 week lead time. The 6-24×50 model is $429.99, with the MIL version in stock and a few week lead time on the MOA version.

[SHOT 2023] New Arken EPL Long Range Hunting Scopes

[SHOT 2023] Arken EPL 6-24×50

[SHOT 2023] Arken Rigid Precision 20 MOA cantilever

[SHOT 2023] A capped windage turret is a popular feature for hunters

[SHOT 2023] Parallax is adjustable down to 10 yards

The EPL derives from the EP-5 scope, which was also on display. There is a lot of shared DNA between the two scopes, though the EP-5 has a 34mm tube. It is a much heavier scope with a Christmas tree reticle, and is more at home on a range gun than a mountain gun.