My hunting buddy just got the Element in 7prc. To date I have seen multiple sub 1/2moa groups out to 836 yards with factory 175 ELD-X ammo. Simply amazing. My Bergara is there with hand loads and once fired Lapua cases. You guys are cheating somehow. lol You get what you pay for in this case.
Need premium steel fixed blade, orange color keeps it from getting lost in the leaves. Rubberized/grippy handle, blade not too long and not too short, 3-5in, mountable in all the ways. Save up and get something good like a Raghorn. Thanks for a great video!
Lots to love about what you are looking for. The orange blade or handle is big for me too. Had to lookup the Raghorn. Assuming you are talking about the Benchmade knife which looks like a fantastic option.
You are criminally under viewed. I've been testing and using knives in hunting situations for the last 20 years. Lately focusing on classic knife designs to determine if they were a result of their era or if there was something more to them. You provided an educational, informative, and unbiased explanation of knives. In every facet of their value, uses, and detriments. I'll admit I'm not a fan of replaceable blade knives, but that's a personal preference. Thank you so much for the content you are providing.
Awesome video! I’ve owned an Element for a couple years in 6.5PRC and it’s crazy how well it shoots for being a super light gun and they’re just an hour away from me! Also their team is some of the most helpful people. North Idaho 💪🏻
After running all of these packs for a while I agree for the most part. I think Kuiu helped transform the pack market years ago with their modular system and engineering such a lightweight pack that could carry heavy loads. I don't think EXO, Kifaru, or Stone Glacier would be where they are today without Kuiu and a few others that I believe really helped pioneer these type of packs. PS: I have been running a Stone Glacier and EXO K4 this summer and both are absolutely incredible.
Bear meat is generally great. You just need to get the internal temps up above 140 to avoid trichinosis. I was totally shocked on this particular hunt as I brought a cooler for the meat and had no plans for the hide! Definitely should have done more research. I have heard mixed things from different parts of the country on eating bear meat. I think it depends a lot on their food source. These bears were full of visible parasites and they strongly suggested not eating it. Some of the best wild game meat I have ever had came from canned bear meat. We filmed the canning process up in Oregon last summer and ate cheesesteak sandwiches with it at bear camp. AMAZING! You can watch that on the @wildfoodoutdoors channel. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-djGJoMTHAxQ.htmlsi=A3zFvxODfqLKeT4r
@@huntleague I was going to say, that seems like giant waste? Even the bears we have here in Northern CA are decent table fair. Im not throwing judgment at anyone, just threw me off. I would of guessed in that part of the country the bear meat would be similar to Maine or Alaska? Weird Thanks for the reply and the explanation, Great content
Yes. Last year was my first year with it in the field. I went on two bear hunts, an archery elk and rifle elk hunt, along with predator and turkey hunts. I have probably 50 days now in the field and easily over 300 miles on it between hunts and training. Hauled one elk out with it so far which is a real test. Ballpark 90lb load and no issues. Over the past year I have had several friends buy AKEK packs as well that love them. Since this review series I have tested Stone Glacier’s Krux frame and I think Talus pack, the Badlands MRK 6, EXO K4 alongside the AKEK. The AKEK still hangs with all of those and is what I plan to take next week as I hit the elk woods again. I know the AKEK has been backordered quite a bit recently but hopefully they are back in stock and available. Hoping to release an updated pack review with each of the new packs soon.
It does have a built in radius. I believe they make one that is flat as well but the one I installed would probably work on either. We have been SUPER pleased with this entire setup. Hoping to take it out next week for our first real hunt with it.
The frame is amazing and there is still a lot to love about these packs. I wish I could help them redesign the bag itself. I am not a fan of the side zips and really wish they had a spot for a bladder in the main bag. I can live without internal pockets and storage because the two exterior pockets on the back are great.
There are two versions. One has a built in rangefinder with a calculator and the other doesn’t. I used the Arken Ballistic app for hold over data and it worked perfect.
Ive picked up watching this video 4 or so times now as I just watch like 10 or so minutes at a time. Every single time I have looked to see if it is on 1.5x speed after starting it…the guy talks SO fast lol
Thanks for watching. I did speed it up a bit just to try and shorten it up a bit but I should have left it and just let the user adjust the playback speed on RU-vid if they wanted to speed it up. Matty is awesome and full of energy for sure but not quite as much as this video makes it out to be.
It’s the Arken Optics app that you sync the device with. Then they have the Arken Ballistics app which is separate that you can input your speed, bc, bullet information into for holdover or MIL/MOA calculations.
I wish it started with 2.5x instead of 5x. I just used it on a bear hunt in CA over bait. Most of the bait piles at the different stands were placed at 15-40 yards. Anything within 20 yards was tough to get a good sight picture at 5x. It still did things that I was so impressed with and being able to capture video in super low light was amazing without even turning on the IR. For the price it is still worth it to me even though it has its limitations.
@@huntleague ok so I found the 3x12. So the choice is this vs The 4K night stalker. Recoil eye relief being a factor and the gun is Ruger 450 bushmaster. Which one you going with ? What gun did you use for bear and was scope bite a problem? Apparently you can get a 60 mm relief but no clue where. I’ll be shooting 300 yards and closer
Your story is a HuntLeague classic! Definitely one of the best turkey hunting stories I've heard. It competes with Governor Huckabees story last year which was a bit of a disaster that ended with a black eye and a trip to the ER.
Here is footage from the Arken at night. I would still use the Zulus during the day to capture video in certain scenarios. Using this scope in daytime mode at night is what was most impressive to me. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-f4FPJyAve7k.html
I can’t find any RU-vid videos where Elberstock is compared with any other packs. Could you tell me why that is? I’ve found it reviewed by itself but not with any other packs. Just wondering. Thanks
I have elk hunted the past two years with a guy from Vortex that loves his Eberlestock pack. Their Recon Bino Harness is one of if not the best one on the market. Eberlestock has been around for decades and I think they made a real name for themselves in the 90's and early 2000's with super stout internal and external frame packs. Over the past few years they have innovated as modular hunting packs were introduced and their Vapor series of packs are going to compete against other top packs. The Eberlestock suspension and frame still feels like it is from a past era though. I guarantee I would like the Eberlestock EMOD frame more than my 10+ year old external frame Kelty or ALPS pack frame. I am sure there are hunters that still prefer the feel of that rigid frame too. Does Eberlestock make a good pack? Yes. They are super durable and built tough and will last you many years. They have moved away from the "Just One Pack" that does it all and stepped into the modular pack world but the frame and suspension are still the foundation of any pack. In my opinion EXO, Kifaru, Stone Glacier, Initial Ascent are out pacing and bringing more innovation to hunting packs and it starts with the foundation not what you attach to it.
@@huntleague Thanks, I think where people are missing the concept is versatility. This system is not dedicated to one type of hunt but to many this born the emod system. I live on the East coast so where those in the west are spring bear hunting we are turkey hunting. I can use this system for carrying ground blinds, chairs, decoys as well as ladder sticks and loc on stand which are rarely used out west. Basically I couldn’t see in putting 700.00 to 1000.00 dollars in a pack that would sit in my basement until I was able to draw a tag and be able to afford to go west. I figure this pa k frame and system will allow me to trailer my eastern adventures and equip me with my western shed hunts and any other adventures I might would embark on. It would be hard to beat this system and that is Elberlestocks golden key selling points in my humble opinion. From river rafting camping and hunting to back. Country sheds, just switch the pack! Thanks for the reply.
@@michaelkilpatrick3141 The owner of Bear Hunting Magazine loves his for that same reason. He lives in Arkansas and can strap a 55 gallon barrel to it for hiking in bear bait. There is not doubt the Eberlestock is a versatile pack and you can get the pack and frame for under $500 if you time up one of their sales.
@@huntleague I love your channel and loved the reviews. I do believe these others are great packs for sure. If I could get one of them it would probably be the Exo but I would have to seriously look at the Akek based on your video and price. It seemed to fall right in middle consistently. I’m like you and really think it is just a matter of preference. They all have great qualities built into them. So thanks again for not attacking me! lol For someone without your experience with all you tried I do value your opinion!! The only experience I have is with Mystery Ranch POpup 38! You guys have way more experience than me! lol I just was drawn to the modularity of Elberstock when I decided. Thanks again and again great channel!! God bless
I'm glad I found your video - I have some Manfrotto gear and I want to do this on my Tikka composite stock so I can mount the Magpul M-Lok. Should be fun! I might even fill the back of the stock with epoxy, to help with sound mitigation (right now, with the stock being hollow, every shot echoes inside the stock, so this will help stop that).
I am sure filling in some of the gaps will make a big difference. My son and I are really happy we did this with that rifle as it is shooting great and that Salmon River Solutions Rail is rock solid when attached to the tripod. For the butt stock or just filling gaps you may do a minimal expansion foam that can be shaved down or sanded. That will help keep the weight down and it should eliminate sound and some vibration.
@@huntleague My rifle weighs less than 8 lbs with the scope and Harris bipod, so weight isn't a huge concern, especially if I'm going to be using a tripod - but I have to agree about the choice of filler. The volume of epoxy required in the butt stock would make the back end ridiculously heavy. I happen to have a can of expanding foam, though it appears this stuff expands a lot - I guess I can always test the expansion, and then try it, and scrape it out if it doesn't work well. The company that is selling the M-Lok has it on sale (clearance) for less than half price, so no better time to buy, methinks!
Heard a rumor the Chinese can find your location (in a Red Dawn incident say) using hidden download when wifi/blutooth is used. Any idea if this is true?
No idea if anything is true these days! Pretty sure they can already do that with just our phones. I don't know if we should be more worried about the Chinese or our own government!
This is the one without the LRF. I bought both and now recommend the one without the LRF. If I am shooting in daylight I just use the range finder I already own. If I am shooting at night, I am not extending the range and would limit shots to known distances within 200 yards. With shots inside 200 I am not really dialing or using the reticle for significant holdover. At night with the IR mode on you can visible see the LRF pulse so you know exactly what it is bouncing off of and how aligned the beam is with your reticle. Both models are super cool but I think the non LRF model is probably a better fit for most shooters. There is so much to love about these little scopes. The auto record function is too cool.
@@tuhai223 Disregard the last comment then and you get all the bells and whistles! When you sync that one with the app you can use the built in LRF to make the adjustments automatically inside the scope which is super cool. Hope you love it. I still can't believe they sell that scope for under $2K with all the features. It still takes a little bit getting used to a digital optic but once you get the hang of operating it you will fall in love. I just used it to film through on a bear hunt in Canada and it was amazing. I can't believe how well is shows color and how much you can see at night without the IR mode even turned on. The sensor built into that is insane at low light. I will have to post some of those videos here soon.
Those are both great packs! The Kifaru wins in the load hauling capacity. The K4 is no slouch in that department though and wins in just about every other area for me. The guys that love the more tactical setup will lean towards the Kifaru. Hunters that appreciate a streamlined yet functional design will lean towards the K4. The Kifaru is stiffer and fits more secure to your back, like a brick. The K4 frame is rigid but more narrow. That narrow base causes the pack, especially when extended away from your body, to sway a bit more. Some may prefer the way the K4 moves with your body while others would prefer the more rigid and wide feel of the Kifaru. Packs fit people differently so the answer is not always universal. For me, I would lean towards the EXO in 75% of my hunts over the Kifaru. If I had to pack an entire mule deer or half an elk off the mountain in one trip it would be the Kifaru. Kifaru wins for me too when I know I am going to be in nasty deadfall. Both are durable packs and should last you at least a decade. The Kifaru feels a little more heavy duty with the build material. I personally don't love the endless MOLLE webbing on the 44mag but I do like the position of the carry handles for picking the pack up and putting it in the truck or positioning inside the rain fly of a tent. It is also good if you plan to use your pack for a lot of training and workouts where you are grabbing the pack with your hands or taking the pack on and off multiple times between sets. The EXO just checks all the practical boxes for me. It is lightweight. Carries loads well. I personally love the organization, zipper placement, buckles and general ergonomics of the EXO pack more. It just feels simpler for some reason and it does everything I need it to do really well. Most of my training this summer has been with the Stone Glacier pack which has really impressed me. That takes streamlined and simple maybe one step too far though. They all carry weight really well but the EXO just fits in the middle as a really great blend.
Great feedback I appreciate it so much. I like the practicality/simplicity of the EXO as well just haven’t gotten to put one on to see how it feels. I put on a 44mag with the Duplex lite frame and it felt amazing but the biggest downfall on that set up in my personal opinion is that setting up the meat shelf seems like it would take a bit more time than the more simplistic exo k4 system. Anyhow, I appreciate it and hopefully I can get my hands on an exo before I pull the trigger on one or the other
With all the adjustments to the cables , now check your peak weight , I just added gas strings string and cables to my Phase 4 33 and found with all my timing adjustments , I found my peak dropped 5 pounds ....was a fairly easy fix by adding twists to the cable equally but something to keep in mind .
Thanks for watching. With taking twists in and out form different sides it stayed within about 3lbs. I didn't put it on the draw board before I started but I am pretty sure I had it set between 69-70lbs and ended up at 67.62lbs after timing everything up. I am happy with that on my setup but dropping pounds means losing speed which can lead to additional work swapping out sight tape or adjusting individual pins.
Great bit of kit. I got the 3-12 LRF version a couple of weeks ago. OK, the ballistic app took a bit of figuring out but once done, WOW! I'm using it for close range night time ratting with a sub-12 air rifle and it's always a problem trying to estimate distance and then hold over / under. The on-board ballistics just make it so easy. The rats don't stand a chance!
I just mounted one of these on one of my dad's rifles. Also just got back from a bear hunt where I used the scope on a tripod just to capture footage. I am so impressed with this device still.
For the heaviest of loads 100+ lbs the Initial Ascent and Kifaru are in a league of their own. In the 50-70lb range they are all comfortable with different levels of flex. The Kifaru is the stiffest. The EXO is very narrow so there is a lot of side to side twist. The AKEK frame is wider but not as rigid as the EXO carbon stays. When bow hunting with a pack I like the flex in the EXO and AKEK. When side hilling and cruising through deadfall I like how stiff the Kifaru frame holds the load. The EXO pack swings a bit more side to side with a full load. For my height, I like that the EXO and Kifaru packs have a tall frame option. You can’t go wrong with any of those options but you save $200-400 with the AKEK. It doesn’t really lack in any areas although there are a few packs that beat it in specific categories.
@@OneWeekGetAway The EXO K3 won the best overall in the head to head with all of the packs tested. Then the K4 was released and only got better. I would put Initial Ascent and Kifaru at the top for extreme heavy loads. Then EXO and Stone Glacier probably as tier two with AKEK nipping at their heels. I will often pack in with the AKEK or Kuiu pack but keep the Initial Ascent pack in the vehicle while elk hunting. First heavy load comes out and then the Initial Ascent makes an appearance for the dirty work. Probably more info than you need and I am sure this is somewhat subjective based on body types. I struggle the most with Mystery Ranch packs under a heavy load as the yoke system hurts my neck and the belt digs into my waste. I have buddies though that swear by that pack and think it’s amazing. If you are narrowing down between Kifaru, AKEK, and EXO you have done your homework and will end up with a great pack. Those packs are way more than just marketing hype and you will be happy for the next 10 years with any one of them.
@@huntleague thanks, I appreciate the feedback. I am looking at these for very long expedition style treks with less weight (let's say approximately 70-80lbs); I am a big guy - 6'2 and 230 with a broad chest; so hard to get sizing and comfort right on cottage industry packs that you cannot try on at a local store.
might wanna watch what you say about Matty. He will do things for you no other gun maker will do. Same can be said about his team. They have all rights to make their mind up on a situation if it means saving a customer or helping them out of a bad situation. I know first hand what Matty will do. I owe him for life!
Just got mine also, a day ago, had issues cuz stupid me didn't turn the WIFI on in the scope, only took 2 + hours to figure why it wouldn't connect. Got it now. Do you have more in-depth video of using and setting up the scope, not much in the instructions. This is going to be awesome. 👍👍 Nice quick video
I am going to try and make a more in depth one soon. I just used the scope mounted on a tripod on an Alberta bear hunt. Had a killer experience but also ran into some issues where I tried changing the date/time on the device but couldn't exit the menu to save the settings. As soon as I paired it with my phone it fixed the issue but it was a problem for me not being able to save the input. I still can't believe how well the video appears when you run this scope in day mode at dusk/dawn. It still shows colors and tons of detail in those last few minutes of legal light.
Would love to get one of their PH2 rifles in Australia, but it's not possible. Not only do they not have a distributor there, one of the people I dealt with from the company told me they have such a hard time keeping up with demand in the USA that they haven't even tried finding other markets. Frustrating!
That is a huge bummer. Hopefully they can grow to the point where they can get one shipped over to you. I have a buddy bringing his new PH2 over today to mount a scope. Every time I handle a Seekins I am impressed with the quality they deliver.
I had the Zulus out earlier today and was showing it to a buddy. On the spot said he was buying one after seeing it (Hoping the 25% off sale is still going). He said he was going to mount it on his .308 and use it for a pig gun in TX. When he said .308 I pointed out the eye relief and said I don't know if I would do that. He said his .308 has minimal recoil and he felt super confident it would be just fine. Most AR-10's manage the recoil pretty well so it probably won't be an issue.
Sure did! I’ve tried this scope first on a 17 hmr rifle, worked out awesome, moved it over to a 9mm just right carbine and was also unreal! This weekend I’ll put on my 308 rifle and give that a try!
Great interview! I attest, Brandon is extremely knowledgeable, generous and humble. Thanks for the help with my reloading questions and the friendship Brandon!
I LOVED the Akek last year. Fantastic pack, covered over 100 miles with it in Oregon and Colorado on multi day hunts. Unfortunately I never got to pack out an elk with it which is always the ultimate test for me. I have not tested the new K4 yet. I recently bought a Stone Glacier system and I am currently testing that right now. One of my buddy's just bought the K4 system so I am hoping to test that in the next month or two (after a spring bear hunt in Canada at the end of May). Quick question: How tall are you? The Akek gets pretty close to maxing out with my torso length and height at 6'3". The EXO K4 has different size carbon stays which might help. I had multiple friends buy the Akek. Not one complained and they all feel like they got a great value with the extra things included (accessory pouches, rain fly, load hauler, rifle quick deploy sling). You can save about $150 + accessory costs and get a pack I am pretty sure you will love. Is it better??? You will probably like certain things on each pack system better than the other. Always tough making a big decision like this without being able to try them on or see them in person. Do you happen to live in CO? I don't mind doing a call with you or answering specific questions if you want to shoot me an email. support@huntleague.com
@@huntleague I'm only 5'7 so that isn't an issue. lol. Akek including the extra accessories is why i'm thinking hard about that one, great value right there! I live in the Boise area, about 15 minutes from the EXO shop. I might just try each since they both have a trial period. thanks for all the info! 🙂
@@ptallant1 EXO just had a warehouse sale recently. I am sure if you live that close you might be able to snag a returned or discounted bag. I would totally do the trial where you could see them both at the same time. I'd love to hear what you decide when the time comes.
@huntleague might have to check it out. Went Akek's site to start the process, and now the 5400 is on backorder until August 20th! Bummer. That will be way too late. It's practically hunting season then...
@@ptallant1 That's a huge bummer but it makes the decision a little easier. You will still love the K4 pack and that 5000 pack will cover you in just about every situation. Hoping the backorder issue at AKEK is because their packs are selling like hot cakes.
Received mine last evening. Setup was a breeze. Now only await mosquito mitigation as this rain has rendered Brazoria County Gun Range infested beyond usability.
Kifaru is my brand now. I own 4 of them. And i just got the ma deuce. I love and just cant get enough of the accessories and modularity. I love to create different load outs. it is a huge hobby of mine.. just love it. I love how they look too. Their tactical and military like. Like a nice ruck. Their durable and rough and rugged. For me exo looks cheaper and stone glacier nd other packs look...just so simple they just don't look as good. I own 32 packs of all the top brands. The cheapest pack i own is 310$ sized from 20 liters to 142 liters. I love packs and building load outs. I really dig the fit and finish and military style of kifaru. Its a ruck. And i dont like packs without pals webbing/ molle. Im from a military lifestyle and military family. Im 45 now but ever since i got into packs it was military surplus to all high end tactical packs and hunting packs and a few hiking expedition packs. I do Alot of backpacking and Bushcrafting. I go almost every weekend. Sometimes during the week too. I like building up packs and creating systems. Its totally an obsession!! I use kifaru for backpacking, Bushcraft and i also use mountain hardwear, osprey, camelbak, 5.11, mystery ranch, eberlestock, tactical tailor, hill people gear, go ruck, force protector gear etc and also i own every modern military pack made sometimes multiple of each pack all brand new from the warehouse never used. But kifaru is just the top for me. I thought of buying stone glacier and exo and maybe I will...and i also thought of getting Kuiu until i heard of all their durability issues. I own two of their tents and im not pleased either. Their ok. I had durability issues with them too. And their customer service is not as good. I own hilleberg tents and amok hammocks as well which is primarily what I choose from. My point is durability and comfort and looks is my number one must have. And with the looks of kifaru all 3 facets line up. Alot of people talk about fit and finish of kuiu, exo and stone glacier being so awesome. Id say if i ever got another hunting pack it wud be stone glacier. They look good and have water guard zippers and have bivy mode for their packs which means the bigger packs has a system that allows u to turn a 75 to 100 something liter bag and put it into bivy mode and it becomes a much smaller bag like a new smaller back pack. People talk about exo too and love em and i did for awhile but then i just didnt like how tall they get!! and their too boring to look at for me. Just too plain is the best description i can give. Im just not impressed for the money. Also ive seen they sway a little back and forth when packed out. But stone glacier.. i cud try one for sure and they have style. Kuiu looks real good but ive heard and seen countless horror stories. Their stuff just breaks and tears. Customer service stinks too. I got a real in depth experience with their services. Their policy for warranty as well is not good. I was even told they have a real hard time giving u a new replacement product because they just cant afford it with the size of their company. I was told this by a kuiu customer service rep i talked to. They can fix things or replace small stuff but its a big deal if they have to just replace it and i speak for all their stuff not just a small item but also the more expensive bigger priced items as well. That stopped me from ever shopping there again. I own two kuiu tents and ive had failures on both on first use and the warranty is crap. I love their clothing as well!! but its spendy with a bad warranty. Its a gamble. I just bought the ma deuce and the Bane pack to work together as one unit. I own 3 lids and they have Xpac material now for their gear. Love it!!! Tough rugged and water proof. And now kifaru has a totally new frame the Ark frame. All carbon fiber with new shoulder straps and new lumbar pad and new waist belt. Its 500$!!! But it looks sick! I have to get it soon.! Check it out. Indestructible and stronger lighter simpler and the straps, belt and pad are all newly designed as well. Their Supposed to be the best theyve ever made. And kifaru has new ultralight packs. They look amazing. The fit and finish looks totally new and different but with the kifaru flavor. I don't think there are packs out there that can match the new beginning of packs their designing . The fabric is awesome looking and feels great. So dont lose heart with kifaru!! Thankyou for listening!! So sorry i had no idea my message got this long..! My bad!
Great video and Matty is a good guide here. This video nudged me on a bolt gun decision, ordered a Havak Hit Pro. Had a question on boltface & barrel for later swaps, Seekins folks called back with a fast, thorough reply. Controlling the rifle top to bottom on supply chain and QA/QC is a great thing. Handling demand with overnight automation capacity, also great.
@@huntleague Ar I used dual charging handle. I just really like the spiral fluting on their havic model and 1800 and basically u have a custom rifle. Now i buy tikka rifles and customize them.
I didn't do a drop test so you may have to look for another channel that is monetizing their videos or where Arken is sending out products for testing. The scope feels super solid though and I believe the mount would be more stable than traditional rings. It's rated for 50BMG recoil so it can take a beating although the eye relief is not adequate in my mind for something with heavy recoil. I have never used an optic that is so easy to zero though. If I ever dropped a rifle, which I have once on a deer hunt slipping on rocks, I would always recommend confirming zero again anyway even if a drop test showed the scope/rifle combo could take it.
The screen is super clear and the focus is very precise but you are looking at a screen which has it's limits compared to looking through glass. I have not shot or even aimed that far yet. I have this mounted on a 5.56 that I would only walk out to about 600yds with. I have a 6.5CM that is sitting idle and this would be a fun scope to mount on that but I would need to mount a different top rail. I probably wouldn't put it on a rifle with more than 12-15ft/lbs of recoil though so depending on the weight of your rifle, caliber, velocity, muzzle brake, etc you may not be looking to take this scope out to 800yds. The Arken EP5 and EPL4 scopes will have zero problems reaching out to those distances and beyond. Those are easily +1,000yd scopes with tracking that is absolutely spot on.
