In this presentation, Rex discusses a comparative analysis on clarity and tracking among different optics. The optics are categorized from the most budget-friendly to the higher-end options, and the discussion is based on rigorous testing in consistent lighting conditions.
First, let’s go over the optics and their respective prices:
- The Arken SH4 Gen 2 is the most budget-friendly scope at $339.99, though it has been on the market for a few years.
- The brand-new J series with Japanese glass is priced at $399.99.
- The Primary Arms 3-18×50, available on their website for $449.99.
- The Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25×56, currently listed at $899.99 on their website.
- The IOR Valada 2-16×42, featuring a 35mm main tube, is the high-end option at $2,495.
The testing took place under ideal conditions, with consistent overcast skies and full illumination from 10:30 to 1:30, ensuring uniform ambient lighting. They also shot at a direction close to 180° due south at midday.
Understanding the lighting conditions and their impact on optics is crucial when conducting comparative analysis. Factors like the color of the ground, wetness, grass coverage, and the angle of the sun can affect results. They took great care to minimize these variables and ensure the reliability of their findings.
Now, let’s delve into their results regarding glass clarity. They used the Rosenbaum pocket screener card at 16x magnification and the United States Air Force 1951 Direct Read resolution target (t21) for their tests. Here are the clarity scores:
- Arken SH4 Gen 2: 5.8 (Rosenbaum) / 1.3 cycles per millimeter (t21)
- Arken SH4 J series: 5.6 (Rosenbaum) / 1.3 cycles per millimeter (t21)
- Primary Arms 3-18×50: 5.2 (Rosenbaum) / 1.25 cycles per millimeter (t21)
- Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25×56: 5.6 (Rosenbaum) / 1.3 cycles per millimeter (t21)
- IOR Valada 2-16×42: 5.1 (Rosenbaum) / 1.75 cycles per millimeter (t21)
It’s important to note that these scores are based on quantifiable measurements, not subjective opinions. While the I Valada displayed superior color rendition and lens coatings, it scored lower in readability on the Rosenbaum test.
Regarding tracking precision, they examined the error percentages when adjusting the optics across their adjustment range. Here are the results:
- Arken SH4 Gen 2: Less than 0.25% error
- Arken SH4 J series: Less than 0.25% error
- Primary Arms 3-18×50: 3% error
- Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25×56: 3% error
- I Valada 2-6×42: 1.75% error
The Arken SH4 and SH4 J series optics demonstrated exceptional tracking precision, with negligible errors. In contrast, the Primary Arms and Vortex Strike Eagle had a 3% tracking error, which is considered standard for optics in their price range. The IOR Valada showed 1.75% error.
Worth a watch…
