AREA 419 mounts. What can you do with them?
AREA 419 mounts. What can you do with them?
The best mounts on the market are a hotly debated topic in the industry today. Just about every manufacturer says that their mounts are the best in one way or another but who can we trust? Who is actually the maker of the best mounts? We believe Area 419 is a solid contender for the title of "best mount maker" in todays market because of the extreme level of quality and adaptability of these mounts with regard to attachments and modularity.
What makes mounts, "The best mounts"?
The best rifle scope mounts come down to doing a few things really well. Holding the scope solidly in place, keeping it aligned, and not moving no matter how much recoil the rifle has. The best mounts are made from strong, well-machined materials like aluminium or steel, fit the rifle properly, and clamp down evenly on the scope without stressing it. Quality hardware and proper torque matter because loose or poorly fitted mounts are one of the fastest ways to lose zero. Ring height also plays a big role, since the scope needs to sit at a height that feels natural and allows for a good cheek weld. In the end, the best mount is one you don’t have to think about—it just works, stays put, and lets the rifle and scope do their job.
What makes Area 419 mounts, the best mounts?
Area 419 takes a unique approach to making high quality mounts as they offer raw aluminium, precision bored scope contact surfaces for maximum grip, multiple accessory mounting points & steel guide pins between base and caps, aiding in alignment. These rings leave no doubt about the quality and performance these mounts are capable of. Area 419 mounts use precision-bored contact surfaces to make sure the scope rings are perfectly aligned and matched as a set. Instead of relying on separate parts lining up by chance, the mount is fully assembled and then bored so the inside of the rings is truly concentric. This gives even contact around the scope tube, which reduces stress on the optic, prevents slipping under recoil, and helps the scope hold zero more reliably. In simple terms, the scope sits straighter, grips better, and stays put.
What can the Area 419 mounts do?
The possibilities with these mounts are endless, you can attach any number of accessories or optics to aid in your shooting whether it be lasers, red dots, rangefinders or bubble levels, this scope can do it all. With the aid of diving board mounts, and side mount pic rails, it is extremely easy to add accessories to these mounts whether it is the Hunt rings or the match single piece mounts, they will all attach and interchange together.
Diving Boards
With the diving board mounts, you can attach rangefinders, lasers, red dots, and any other attachment you can use with picatinny rails.
Side mount picatinny rail
With the side mount picatinny rail, you can attach red dots, lasers, dope sheets or level.
Other accessories
With the modularity of the area 419 system, the above is by no means the only attachments you can put onto this mount.
There are direct fit data sheets, bubble levels, red dot mounts and offset mounts so you can use any accessory or optic, the way that you want.
The sky is truly the limit with these mounts. With the highest level of optimisation, innovation and reliability, it is difficult to look at other mounts. Yes, they can be a little expensive but for one mount in which every use and quirk has been thought of and anticipated, it is an absolute bargain.
Shop Area 419 here: AREA 419
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The New Pixfra DRACO Multispectum Thermal / Night Vision Binocular Range - Everything You Need to Know
Pixfra DRACO Multispectrum Binoculars: D225 / D335 / D635
DRACO is a true 4-in-1 multispectral binocular platform combining thermal imaging, 4K digital day/night vision, a built-in laser rangefinder, and detachable IR illumination — designed to give fast detection, confident identification, and accurate ranging from a single handheld unit.
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Jump to comparison Explore models
What makes DRACO different
DRACO is built around a simple field workflow: detect (thermal), identify (4K digital), and measure distance (LRF) — without swapping devices or breaking observation.
Thermal sensitivity
High-sensitivity detectors (NETD down to ≤15mK on D335/D635)
4K digital channel
1/1.8" CMOS 3840×2160 for day + night observation
Rangefinding
Integrated Class 1 LRF up to 1000m (±1m stated)
Field usability
EIS + defog + menu memory + binocular-style wheel controls
Ergonomic ~600g-class body for comfortable handheld use, with a familiar binocular-style control wheel.
Immersive two-eye viewing via a 0.49" Full HD OLED display and curved UI layout for a natural observation field.
PIPS 3.0 AI image processing to enhance clarity and consistency in both thermal and digital channels.
Detachable IR illuminator (850nm / 940nm options) to extend digital night viewing in very low light.
Dual-band Wi-Fi + 64GB storage for streaming, sharing, and recording photos/videos.
Flexible power: removable 18650 batteries, USB-C charging, power bank support, and single-battery operation.
Quick pick
D225 = most approachable • D335 = best all-round thermal step-up • D635 = premium thermal detail + wider scan
Best for
DRACO is designed to improve situational awareness across day, dusk and darkness — in open terrain, woodland, and poor visibility.
Ideal use cases:Outdoor exploration • Hunting • Wildlife/animal observation • Security & surveillance • Night-time property checks
How to think about the three models
D225: compact entry into multispectral; great for closer to mid-range thermal needs and strong 4K ID.
D335: the thermal “workhorse” step-up; stronger thermal resolution and reach for mixed terrain.
D635: premium thermal detail and wider thermal field of view; best for scanning and confident long-range observation.
Tip: Use thermal to find heat quickly, then switch to 4K digital to identify detail/behaviour, and confirm distance with LRF.
Model breakdown
All DRACO models share the same core concept and handling. The key differences are thermal sensor resolution, thermal lens configuration / field of view, and the overall balance of scan speed vs detail.
D225
D225 overview: The most approachable DRACO model — combining thermal detection, crisp 4K digital day/night viewing, LRF to 1000m, and detachable IR illumination in a compact, ergonomic chassis.
Thermal sensor
256×192 VOx, 12µm, ≤18mK
Thermal lens
25mm f/0.9 (manual focus)
Thermal FOV @ 100m
12.2m × 9.3m
Thermal magnification
4.3× base • 1–8× digital zoom (up to 34.4× stated)
Thermal detection range
≈1300m
Digital sensor
1/1.8" CMOS 4K (3840×2160)
Digital lens
55mm f/2.0 (manual focus)
Digital FOV @ 100m
14.0m × 8.8m
Digital magnification
5.5× optical • 1–8× digital (to 44×)
Display
0.49" OLED • 1920×1080
LRF
Up to 1000m • ±1m • Class 1
IR illuminator
Detachable 850nm / 940nm options (range stated up to ~400m with IR depending on conditions)
Power & runtime
Removable 18650 • ≈9 hours (25°C, Wi-Fi off stated)
Storage / connectivity
64GB internal • Dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4/5GHz • USB-C
Build & rating
Magnesium alloy housing • IP67 • 195 × 130.6 × 61.7mm • ~0.61kg
D225 — Pros
Best value entry to multispectral
Most approachable DRACO model for stepping into thermal + 4K digital + LRF.
Strong 4K digital channel for identification in daylight and low light.
Compact handling with binocular-style controls for easy use in the field.
Full platform features: EIS, defog, PIPS 3.0, dual-band Wi-Fi, 64GB recording.
D225 — Cons
Trade-offs vs higher models
Lower thermal resolution than D335/D635, so fine thermal detail is reduced at distance.
Narrower thermal performance headroom for demanding long-range scanning compared to higher-tier sensors.
Recommended for: hunters and wildlife watchers who want an all-in-one device for detection + ID + ranging, with the most accessible thermal spec in the range. Great for mixed woodland/farmland, night property checks, and anyone prioritising compact versatility.
D335
D335 overview: The DRACO “workhorse” — a major step-up in thermal performance while keeping the same compact chassis and full feature set. Built for users who want stronger thermal reach and clarity for real-world mixed terrain.
Thermal sensor
384×288 VOx, 12µm, ≤15mK
Thermal lens
35mm f/0.95 (manual focus)
Thermal FOV @ 100m
13.7m × 10.3m (7.5° × 5.6° stated)
Thermal magnification
3.8× base • 1–8× digital (up to 30.4× stated)
Thermal detection range
≈1800m
Digital sensor
1/1.8" CMOS 4K (3840×2160)
Digital lens
55mm f/2.0
Digital FOV @ 100m
14.0m × 8.8m
Digital magnification
5.5× optical • 1–8× digital (to 44×)
Display
0.49" OLED • 1920×1080 • 18× ocular magnification stated
LRF
Up to 1000m • ±1m stated
IR illuminator
Detachable 850nm / 940nm variants
Power & runtime
2× 18650 removable • ≈8 hours (25°C, Wi-Fi off stated) • can run on single battery
Storage / connectivity
64GB internal • Dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4/5GHz • App streaming
Build & rating
Magnesium alloy • IP67 • 195 × 130.6 × 61.7mm • ~0.62kg
D335 — Pros
Best all-rounder in the range
Big thermal upgrade over D225: higher resolution + ≤15mK sensitivity for clearer thermal layers.
Excellent balance of scan capability and usable magnification for farmland/woodland/open hill work.
Keeps the same 4K digital channel for identification and evidence capture.
Full platform toolkit: PIPS 3.0, EIS, defog, menu memory, dual-band Wi-Fi, 64GB.
D335 — Cons
Where the D635 pulls ahead
Not as “fine detail” rich as a 640-class thermal sensor (D635) when pushing distance/identification.
Thermal field of view is narrower than the D635’s wider scan window.
Recommended for: the majority of serious users — hunting, wildlife management, security patrols and night operations — where you want a notable thermal performance step-up while keeping the compact binocular form factor.
D635
D635 overview: The premium DRACO model — highest thermal resolution in the range and a wider thermal field of view, built for fast scanning and confident detail where clarity matters most.
Thermal sensor
640×512 VOx, 12µm, ≤15mK
Thermal lens
35mm f/1.0
Thermal FOV @ 100m
21.9m × 17.6m (12.52° × 10.0° stated)
Thermal magnification
2.5× base • 1–8× digital (to ~20× stated)
Thermal detection range
≈1800m
Digital sensor
1/1.8" CMOS 4K (3840×2160)
Digital lens
55mm f/2.0
Digital FOV @ 100m
14.0m × 8.8m
Digital magnification
5.5× optical • 1–8× digital (to 44×)
Display
0.49" OLED • 1920×1080 • curved UI for natural viewing
LRF
Up to 1000m • ±1m stated
IR illuminator
Detachable 850nm / 940nm
Power & runtime
Removable 18650 • ≈8 hours (25°C, Wi-Fi off stated) • USB-C / power bank support
Storage / connectivity
64GB internal • Dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4/5GHz • App streaming
Fit & adjustment
Interpupillary 60–74mm • Diopter −5D to +5D • foldable eyecups
Build & rating
Magnesium alloy • IP67 • 195 × 130.6 × 61.7mm • ~0.62kg
D635 — Pros
Premium thermal detail + scan
Highest thermal resolution in the DRACO line for richer detail and more confident observation.
Wider thermal field of view makes scanning large areas faster and more comfortable.
≤15mK sensitivity + PIPS 3.0 helps maintain clarity in haze, fog and poor weather.
Full multispectral toolset: 4K digital ID + LRF + IR illuminator + recording/streaming.
D635 — Cons
Most premium choice
Higher-spec thermal comes at a higher investment than D225/D335.
Lower base thermal magnification prioritises scanning and situational awareness over a “zoomed-in” starting view.
Recommended for: users who prioritise thermal image quality and fast, wide-area scanning — open ground, coastal, hill, large farmland, professional observation and security work where detail and clarity are key.
Full specification comparison
This table highlights the practical differences that matter: thermal sensor & lens, field of view, magnification behaviour, detection range, and the shared platform features across the DRACO range.
Tip: On mobile, swipe left/right. The left column stays fixed for easy comparison.
Specification
D225
D335
D635
Positioning
Most approachable multispectral entry
Best all-round workhorse
Premium thermal detail + wider scan
Thermal sensor
256×192 VOx • 12µm • ≤18mK
384×288 VOx • 12µm • ≤15mK
640×512 VOx • 12µm • ≤15mK
Thermal lens
25mm f/0.9 (manual focus)
35mm f/0.95 (manual focus)
35mm f/1.0
Thermal FOV @ 100m
12.2m × 9.3m
13.7m × 10.3m
21.9m × 17.6m
Thermal base magnification
4.3×
3.8×
2.5×
Thermal digital zoom
1–8×
1–8×
1–8×
Thermal magnification range (stated)
4.3× – 34.4×
3.8× – 30.4×
2.5× – ~20×
Thermal detection range (stated)
≈1300m
≈1800m
≈1800m
Digital sensor
1/1.8" CMOS • 4K 3840×2160 (day/night)
Digital lens
55mm f/2.0 (manual focus stated on D225)
Digital FOV @ 100m
14.0m × 8.8m
Digital magnification
5.5× optical • 1–8× digital (to 44×)
Display
0.49" OLED • 1920×1080 • binocular-style viewing
Image processing
PIPS 3.0 AI enhancement
Stability features
Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS) • Defog mode • Menu memory
Thermal palettes
White Hot • Black Hot • Iron Red • Alarm • Green Hot • Sepia
Digital modes
Colour • Black & White • Green • Yellow • Auto
Laser rangefinder
Integrated LRF • up to 1000m • ±1m stated (Class 1 referenced)
IR illuminator
Detachable 850/940nm options (850nm referenced)
Detachable 850nm / 940nm
Detachable 850nm / 940nm
Storage
64GB internal (photo/video recording)
Wi-Fi
Dual-band 2.4GHz + 5GHz (App streaming/transfer)
Power
Removable 18650 • dual battery (can run single)
2× 18650 removable • can run single
Removable 18650
Runtime (stated)
≈9 hours
≈8 hours
≈8 hours
Dimensions
195 × 130.6 × 61.7 mm
Weight
~0.61 kg
~0.62 kg
~0.62 kg
Protection rating
IP67
IP67
IP67
Fit adjustments
Interpupillary 60–74mm • foldable eyecups
Interpupillary 60–74mm • foldable eyecups
Interpupillary 60–74mm • diopter −5D to +5D
Choosing the right DRACO
If you’re deciding between models, focus on two questions: (1) how much thermal detail do you need? and (2) do you prefer scanning wider or starting more “zoomed in”?
You want the most accessible route into a multispectral binocular without giving up the key benefits of the platform: 4K digital ID, LRF, detachable IR and recording/streaming. You’ll still get strong thermal detection, but with a smaller sensor than the step-up models.
You want the best balance of thermal performance and cost. The 384×288 sensor and ≤15mK sensitivity are a meaningful real-world upgrade, making this the most broadly suited option for hunters, wildlife managers and security users.
You want premium thermal detail and the widest thermal scan window for covering ground quickly. If you spend lots of time scanning open areas (hill, coastal, large farmland) and you value rich thermal information, the 640-class sensor is the standout.
One-line recommendations
D225: approachable multispectral all-rounder • D335: best all-round thermal upgrade • D635: premium thermal detail + wide scan
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Charging Your Alpex Units: What You Need to Know
Charging Your Alpex Units: What You Need to Know
When charging your HIKMICRO Alpex 4K, it’s important to understand how the power system works to avoid confusion in the field.
Internal vs External Battery
The Alpex 4K powers on using its internal battery only. The external battery does not activate the unit when switched on.
Once the internal battery becomes low, the device will automatically switch over to the external battery. When the low battery warning appears on the screen, please note that it can take up to one hour for the external battery to kick in. This is normal behaviour, as the unit only changes over once the internal battery reaches a specific low level.
Charging the Internal Battery
To properly charge the internal battery:
• Always use the provided HIK USB charging cable
• These cables are specifically designed for HIK units
• Standard USB leads may not charge the unit correctly or consistently
Plug the unit in using the correct USB cable and allow it to charge for 6–8 hours to ensure a full and healthy charge.
Final Tip
If your Alpex appears slow to switch to the external battery, don’t worry - this is part of the unit’s normal power management system and helps protect battery life.
For best performance, always charge fully before use and keep the correct HIK charging lead with your kit.
If you notice that you are not getting the full battery life out of your Alpex it is recommended that you reset the battery. This is essentially a very long charge. Remove the external battery and place the Alpex on charge directly from the mains for a minimum of 10 hours. This solves 90% of battery issues.
To stop the battery draining while in storage remove the external battery.
Do not charge the internal battery with the external battery fitted. READ ARTICLE
Wulf Defender 30 3–15x44 Review: Premium Performance on a Budget
Wulf Defender 30 3–15x44 Review: Premium Performance on a Budget
Whether you're looking for the best value or the best scope, searching around and comparing prices is usually the way to go, but the new Wulf 3-15x44 turns that assumption on its head and kicks it down the road. For an unbelievably low price for the features of the scope, you get a premium scope with a budget price tag. Introducing the Wulf Defender 30 3-15x44 presents excellent value and premium performance in a compact platform, which is excellent for all disciplines of shooting from long-range Target to backyard plinking with your air rifle.
QUICK LOOK
Whether you are looking for your first scope or your 50th scope, the value provided by the Wulf line is hard to go past. The new 3-15x44 is no exception, with a perfect power range, easy-to-use reticle and extraordinary glass quality, this scope is the perfect optic for any shooting use. Valued at £299.99, this scope is ideal for entry-level shooters for use in backyard plinking all the way to experienced hunters for deer stalking in the Scottish Highlands. This unit offers a compact 30mm tube but does not restrict your adjustment, still offering 34.9 MRAD of adjustment on 0.1 MRAD clicks, allowing extreme long-range shooting to be done on a budget. High-definition glass allows low light and poor environmental conditions to be a problem of the past by offering a crisp, clear image with high levels of light transmission due to the multi-coated lenses. Zero-stop turrets, an easy-to-use SFP reticle, and illumination come together to offer a perfect combination, providing a simple, clear, and accurate optic that makes you a better shooter and hunter.
RETICLE
THE W-MIL6 reticle from Wulf is simpler in comparison to some of today's outlandish offering from other scope manufacturers (cough cough, tremor reticles) but this simple reticle allows for the simple elevation adjustment and wind adjustment which is perfect for hunting and most PRS uses as scanning is also an important consideration which choosing a scope and if the reticle takes up the entire bottom half of the image, it makes for a difficult time. With 10 MRAD displayed in elevation, this will be enough to get most intermediate cartridges (308, 6.5creed, 6.5swede, 243) to around 1000m based on just the reticle alone, never mind the impressive adjustment in the turrets. The illumination offers a crisp, clear brightness over the entire reticle, allowing you to make your best shot in any condition; wind, rain or shine.
WARRANTY
All Wulf scopes are covered under the Wulf Titanium Lifetime Warranty, which covers all Wulf scopes for life for all mechanical & optical faults in the unlikely event that they arise. This warranty will provide peace of mind when purchasing, as you only need to purchase one scope. If the fault occurs, you are covered, and we will handle any warranty concerns for you. The WULF Titanium Lifetime Warranty does not cover loss, theft, deliberate damage or cosmetic damage that does not hinder the performance of the product, but as long as you don't use the scope as a hammer, it is very unlikely the scope will break.
SPECIFICATIONS
• Model
3–15x44 W-MIL6
• Focal Plane
SFP
• Magnification
3× – 15×
• Scope Tube Diameter
30mm
• Reticle Type
Etched Glass
• Ocular Lens Diameter
37.5mm
• Objective Lens Diameter
44mm
• Mounting Length
137 mm / 5.4"
• Field of View
7.8° – 1.5°
• Exit Pupil
10.17 – 2.9 mm
• Eye Relief
90 – 93 mm
• Diopter Adjustment
±2.5
• Max Elevation / Windage
34.9 MIL / 17.4 MIL
• Parallax Correction
10 yds – ∞
• Turret Type
Zero-Stop & Lock
• Turret Click Value
0.1 MRAD per click
• Adjustment per Revolution
10 MIL
• Illumination
6-Level Red
• Illumination Battery
CR2032
• Working Temperature
–20°C to +50°C
• Length
325 mm / 12.8"
What's in the box?
• WULF Defender 30 Rifle Scope
• Cleaning Cloth
• Sunshade
• Allen Keys
• Instructional Manual
• Lens Caps
COST
£299.99
HONEST OPINION
This scope gives you everything that you need for long-distance and hunting applications. 3-15 is perfect for most calibres within 1000m with no issues, and the reticle is simple to use but effective in its design, allowing for easy holdover and shots, making guesswork a thing of the past. Deer stalkers would benefit from the compact nature and performance of this scope, making their hunt just that bit easier. Long-range target shooters would draw benefits from the simple but effective reticle and the perfect amount of magnification for long-distance shooting. For less than £300, the performance offered by this scope is phenomenal and almost impossible to beat unless you fork out a lot more £££. READ ARTICLE
FFP vs SFP Rifle Scopes: What’s the Difference - and Which Makes More Sense?
FFP vs SFP Rifle Scopes: What’s the Difference - and Which Makes More Sense?
Choosing the right rifle scope isn’t just about magnification or glass quality. One of the biggest decisions is whether to go with a First Focal Plane (FFP) or Second Focal Plane(SFP) reticle. While both designs have their place, for the vast majority of shooters, SFPscopes offer greater usability, clarity, and value. Understanding how each focal plane works will help you choose an optic that performs where it actually matters - in the field or on the range.
First Focal Plane (FFP): Precision With Trade-Offs
In an FFP scope, the reticle sits in front of the magnification system. As you zoom in or out, the reticle scales with the image. This keeps reticle measurements accurate at all magnifications.
Example: Arken Optics EPL4 4–16x44 FFP VHR
The Arken Optics EPL4 4–16x44 FFP scope demonstrates the strengths of FFP design:
• Reticle subtensions remain accurate across the entire magnification range
• Useful for advanced shooters engaging targets at rapidly changing distances
• Illuminated reticle for low-light conditions
However, these benefits come with compromises:
• At low magnification, the reticle can appear very small and hard to pick up
• FFP scopes are typically more expensive
• More complexity than many shooters actually need
Best suited for:
Dedicated long-range or tactical shooters who rely heavily on reticle-based ranging and holdovers at constantly changing distances.
Second Focal Plane (SFP): Practical, Clear, and Shooter-Friendly
In a Second Focal Plane (SFP) scope, the reticle remains the same size no matter the magnification. This design prioritises visibility, simplicity, and real-world usability - which is exactly why SFP remains the preferred choice for hunters and most recreational shooters.
Example: WULF Defender 30 3–15x44 ED SFP IR W-MIL6
The WULF Defender 30 3–15x44 ED SFP IR W-MIL6 is a standout example of why SFPscopes continue to dominate practical shooting applications.
Key advantages include:
• A consistently bold, easy-to-see reticle at all magnifications
• High-quality ED glass delivering excellent clarity and light transmission
• Illuminated MIL reticle for dawn, dusk, and low-light conditions
• Robust 30 mm tube designed for durability and reliability
Unlike FFP scopes, the WULF Defender keeps the reticle clear and usable at low power - exactly when fast target acquisition matters most.
Who it’s ideal for:
Hunters, range shooters, and anyone shooting at known or semi-known distances who values clarity, speed, and simplicity over unnecessary complexity.
FFP vs SFP: Key Differences at a Glance
Feature
FFP
SFP (WULF Defender)
Reticle size with magnification
Changes
Stays the same
Reticle visibility at low power
Can be difficult
Always clear
Holdover accuracy
Any magnification
One set of magnification
Ease of use
More complex
Simple and intuitive
Typical cost
Higher
Better value
Best for
Niche long-rangeuse
Hunting & general shooting
Which Should You Choose?
Choose FFP only if you:
• Regularly shoot at extreme distances
• Constantly change magnification while holding over
• Specifically need reticle subtensions accurate at all zoom levels
Choose SFP - especially the WULF Defender 30 - if you want
• A clearer, more visible reticle in real-world conditions
• A simpler shooting experience without constant magnification management
• Excellent optical performance at a more accessible price point
• A scope that excels at hunting and general-purpose shooting
For most shooters, the advantages of SFP far outweigh the niche benefits of FFP.
Conclusion
While FFP scopes like the Arken Optics EPL4 serve a specific long-range role, SecondFocal Plane scopes remain the more practical and versatile choice for everyday shooting. The WULF Defender 30 3–15x44 ED SFP delivers clarity, durability, and ease of use where it counts - making it an excellent option for hunters and shooters who want dependable performance without unnecessary complexity. For shooters who value visibility, reliability, and real-world effectiveness, the WULF Defender SFP stands out as the smarter choice. READ ARTICLE
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