Paper & Steel Targets: A Quick Guide
Paper & Steel Targets: A Quick Guide
So you've bought all the latest scopes and accessories from Optics Warehouse, and now you are ready to go shooting, but you get there, and you've forgotten something...TARGETS!!!. We can help with that as well. We have a selection of paper targets and steel targets available for every use, from backyard plinking, hunting practice or target practice.
Paper Targets
Whether you are plinking for fun or practising your aim, there is a paper target for you, from zombie to splatter targets to Bisley range targets.
Birchwood Casey sells a wide range of targets from the above zombie splatter targets for the zombie enthusiast, plinking or backyard target practice, with a bit of fun side as opposed to shooting standard round targets.
Birchwood Casey also makes standard round targets with a key difference. The Shoot N C system offers an immediate marker on the target when a projectile strikes the target. A bright coloured, easy-to-see halo will appear around the shot location, displaying where the bullet hit without having to go and check the target by walking up to it. This mark is visible from a distance and is easily visible through scopes and binoculars.
Bisley Competition grade targets offer a cheap and cost-effective traditional paper target which is ideal for close-range air rifle practice and competition use.
Steel Targets
Tom's Targets & GR8FUN offers a variety of mild steel targets ranging from practice targets for common quarry animals such as crows and bunnies. They also offer common targets such as HFT practice targets, teardrop targets, know your limits targets, and other common resetting targets.
These targets are brilliant fun, cheap and easy to place, while offering a rewarding and audible "ding" when the target is hit. Whether it is HFT practice, teaching your kids to shoot or even just backyard plinking, these targets will not disappoint, offering a rewarding but testing experience. Place them at different ranges and watch the difficulty increase, and your shooting ability get better.
It is commonly the most forgotten part of shooting, but by no means the least fun. A good target can make your shooting experience all the more fun. Contact the team at Optics Warehouse today or see our website for our latest offerings on targets. READ ARTICLE
Hollywood vs Reality: How Scopes Are Misused on Screen (and How to Do It Right)
Hollywood vs Reality: How Scopes Are Misused on Screen (and How to Do It Right)
We've all seen movies with famous characters or notorious social media posts and wondered, "How did that make it onto the screen?" Well, well, today, let's dive into some common inaccuracies commonly seen in movies and social media and some movies that finally get it right. We'll look at how they were presented and look to correct this with some high-quality products from Optics Warehouse.
The Rookie
This scene from The Rookie shows the character using a magnifier behind an ACOG scope, which features a 4x magnification. This would not work in reality, as the focus of the magnified optic would not focus through the magnifier behind the unit.
How to fix the scene
If you wanted to fix this scene, you would either use a standard prism sight or use a red or holographic sight with a magnifier. You are able to use a magnifier on a red dot or holographic sight, as there is no parallax or eye relief on these, and there is no magnification, so the magnifier can focus through the unit.
A good example of this is from Vortex by using either their Spitfire Prism scopes or using a Vortex AMG Razor holographic sight with a Vortex VX3M flip-to-side magnifier. These setups are very popular on competition rifles and airsoft here in the UK on AR platform rifles.
Spitfire Prism
Holographic sight
Magnifier
US NAVY
I am sure that a few years ago, most people in the firearms community saw this post and cringed at their phones.
What it shows is an LPVO (low power variable optic) mounted backwards, from what I assume is the incorrect belief that the objective of the scope should be the largest part of the scope. This is a common misconception and an issue I see commonly when showing customers their first LPVO scope. These scopes tend to feature an objective which is either equal to or smaller than the tube size, which means that the objective will appear as smaller than the eyepiece, leading to confusion. Correct fitment of these scopes involves identifying the eyepiece and mounting the scope with the eyepiece towards the shooter. The easiest way to find this fitment is to look through the scope; if the image is "zoomed out", it is the wrong way around. The image should always be magnified.
Best units available for these scopes of scopes are the Vortex Razor 1-10x24, Delta Stryker 1-10x28 and the Arken EP8.
Vortex Razor
Delta Stryker
Arken Optics EP8
When movies get it right!!!
I would remiss if talking about movies that get scopes and optics correct, if I did not talk about JOHN WICK.
LPVO
Holographic Sight
Sniper Rifle (long-range scope)
Best uses for the above style of optics
The LPVO would be perfect using a Vortex Razor 1-10x24, Delta Stryker 1-10x24 or Arken EP8 1-8x28. They offer a variable magnification which allows you to use a scope on 1x magnification (no magnification) and zoom in to 8x or 10x magnification, offering versatility in a compact package for all shooting types from airsoft, 22LR competition and rodent and pest shooting.
The holographic and red dot sights would be perfect for short-range range wide field of view shooting. While offering no magnification, red dots offer an illuminated display which is easy and immediate to spot, while not suffering from any parallax error that traditional scopes encounter. These units are perfect for short-range hunting, airsoft and target shooting as they are quick and simple to use. Best units available in this category are the Vortex Razor AMG, Vortex Crossfire red dot, Holosun AEMS & Holosun ARO.
Long-range scopes offer high amounts of magnification and reticles with subtensions designed to allow for accurate holdovers at long distances. These types of scopes are ideal for hunting, target shooting and airsoft (if you're a good shot). Best scopes for this would be the Schmidt and Bender PMII, Vortex Razor 6-36x56, Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56 and the Delta Stryker 3.5-21x44.
Final thoughts
With all the movies out there with rifles in them, there are bound to be a few mishaps with scopes, and the sheer amount of "influencers" and posts that are put out will result in a few oops moments. But I hope that this blog has cleared up a few funny things you might have seen and given you some idea of what each scope is designed to do. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact the staff at Optics Warehouse. READ ARTICLE
Unleashing Clarity in Darkness: The Lynx 3.0’s Sub-15 mK Thermal Engine
Unleashing Clarity in Darkness: The Lynx 3.0’s Sub-15 mK Thermal Engine
When it comes to handheld thermal monoculars, true performance is defined not just by range or magnification - but by the ability to detect subtle temperature differences. That’s where the new HIKMICRO Lynx 3.0 really stands out. With select models boasting a NETD (Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference) of less than 15 mK, this series delivers detail and clarity in the most challenging environments.
Why NETD Matters
NETD measures the smallest temperature difference the detector can reliably discern. Simply: the lower the NETD value (measured in milliKelvins, mK), the more finely the thermal module can resolve subtle heat signatures. A 15 mK (or lower) rating means the device can pick up smaller thermal contrasts - think thin branches against cold sky, partially obscured animals at dusk, or faint residual body heat—faster and more clearly than higher-NETD systems. With Lynx 3.0 models offering < 15 mK NETD on key variants, HIKMICRO is pushing handheld thermal imaging into a new league.
What That Means in Real-World Use
Here’s how that sub-15 mK sensitivity becomes a practical advantage:Better contrast, sooner: Subtle heat sources are picked up earlier, giving you more time to recognise and react. Whether you’re scanning fields at dawn or monitoring woodlands at twilight, the Lynx 3.0 gives you a jump on weaker signatures.Sharper detail in tricky conditions: Fog, haze, drizzle or mixed backgrounds can mask targets. A lower NETD helps maintain clarity when less sensitive systems struggle.Extended effective detection range: While lens focal length and optics matter, the thermal module’s sensitivity underpins how far and how clearly you can see. With <15 mK modules, the Lynx 3.0 can achieve longer usable detection distances for smaller signatures.Less reliance on perfect conditions: Many thermal units perform well in ideal conditions; the difference appears when the light is low, contrast is weak, or the environment is challenging. That’s where a high-sensitivity detector shows its value.
The Lynx 3.0 Lineup - Matching Lens & Sensitivity
While sensitivity is crucial, choosing the right model means balancing focal length, field of view and range. All share underlying high performance; some key picks: HIKMICRO Lynx 3.0 LH25: 384×288 sensor, NETD <15 mK, 25 mm F1.0 lens – up to~1200m detection in open terrain. HIKMICRO Lynx 3.0 LH15: 320×240 sensor, ideal mid-distance choice.
Why It Matters for Hunters, Wildlife Monitors & Professionals
If you’re out in the field, these are the tangible benefits:
• Spot animals earlier on the horizon when they’ve barely picked up body heat.
• Detect smaller warm objects (rodents, birds, hidden game) that might otherwise blend into the background.
• Make confident identifications at dusk or dawn, when visible light is minimal and thermal contrast is thin.
• Use the device in varied weather (cold, damp, partial cover) and still get a clean image.
• For professional applications (conservation, security, pest-control), achieving clearer results more reliably boosts effectiveness.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a thermal monocular that doesn’t just work—but excels—then the HIKMICRO Lynx 3.0’s sub-15 mK NETD models are a standout. They combine compact size, modern features (AI image processing, WiFi/video, shutterless systems) and most importantly, a detector that can truly perform when it matters. For anyone serious about nighttime observation, game spotting, wildlife monitoring, or surveillance - even in less-than-ideal conditions - choosing a Lynx 3.0 model with <15 mKsensitivity offers a real edge. READ ARTICLE
Pixfra ARC LRF Pro Series: Big Thermal Performance Without the Big Price Tag
Pixfra ARC LRF Pro Series: Big Thermal Performance Without the Big Price Tag
When it comes to thermal imaging gear, it’s easy to get lost in a jungle of specs, sensors, and sky-high price tags. That’s where Pixfra’s ARC LRF Pro series steps in - bringing serious thermal performance, built-in laser rangefinding, and slick usability at a price that won’t make your wallet weep.
Let’s take a look at what makes the Pixfra ARC range such a standout choice for anyone looking to get top-tier tech without top-tier prices.
The ARC LRF Pro Line-Up at a Glance
The ARC series currently includes lots of models, but I have chosen the following 3 as the highlights: the A419 Pro, A625 Pro, and A650 Pro.
All three share the same DNA: solid build quality, intuitive controls, crisp imaging, and a built-in Laser Rangefinder (LRF) for accurate distance readings on the spot.
Here’s how they compare:
Model
Sensor Resolution
Lens
Detector Pitch
Best For
Key Advantages
Pixfra ARC LRF A419 Pro
384 × 288
19 mm
12 µm
Wide-angle scanning, general use
Broad field of view, great entry-level price
Pixfra ARC LRF A625 Pro
640 × 512
25 mm
12 µm
All-round performance
Excellent image detail and detection range balance
Pixfra ARC LRF A650 Pro
640 × 512
50 mm
12 µm
Long-range detection
Superb magnification and distance capability
Shared Features Across the ARC Range
No matter which ARC model you go for, you’re getting a lot of tech packed into a compact, easy-to-carry unit:
• Laser Rangefinder built in – Accurately measure distances at the press of a button.
• High-resolution thermal detectors – Choose between 384×288 or 640×512 sensors, both with 12 µm pixel pitch for sharp imaging.
• Multiple lens options – From the wide-view 19 mm to the long-reach 50 mm.
• User-friendly interface – Simple controls, quick start-up, and clear on-screen display.
• Rugged and reliable – Built for the outdoors, whether you’re spotting wildlife, tracking at night, or surveying land.
• Excellent battery life – Designed to last through long field sessions.
Extreme Value for Money
Here’s the real kicker: the Pixfra ARC LRF Pro series gives you features usually reserved for premium-brand thermals - but at a fraction of the price.
You’re not just buying a thermal monocular; you’re getting:
• Thermal imaging + laser rangefinding in one device
• High-resolution sensors that deliver clarity you can count on
• Flexible options that let you choose your balance of field of view, range, and budget
For professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who values performance per pound, the Pixfra ARC line delivers unbeatable value.
Which One Should You Choose?
• Go for the A419 Pro if you’re new to thermals or want a wide-angle scanning tool without overspending.
• Pick the A625 Pro if you want crisp imaging and great versatility - the best all-rounder of the range.
• Step up to the A650 Pro if your main goal is long-range detection and detail recognition.
No matter which one you pick, you’re stepping into a level of performance that’s hard to beat for the money.
Final Thoughts
The Pixfra ARC LRF Pro series shows that you don’t need to drop several thousand pounds to get professional-grade thermal performance. With excellent imaging, reliable rangefinding, and smart design, these thermals deliver serious performance at a smart price.
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to invest in a thermal monocular - this might just be it. READ ARTICLE
Delta Titanium RF 9x45 Review – Are These Rangefinding Binoculars Still Worth It in 2025?
Delta Titanium RF 9x45 Review – Are These Rangefinding Binoculars Still Worth It in 2025?
Spotting during hunting is the most important thing because...well, you can't shoot what you can't see. The Delta Titanium RF 9x45 solve the issues of the past of having to carry a set of binoculars as well as a rangefinding monocular for distance. With an easy-to-read display, comfortable grip and outstanding glass quality, this unit truly is in a league of its own.
This unit is a few years old now, and there are a few more options now for rangefinding binoculars, so the question begs to be asked...is it still worth it?
Quick Look
The unit is a powerhouse for hunting as it features a 9x magnification and a 45mm objective offering a perfect magnification and objective allowing better viewing and a very wide field of view of 117m at 100m. Minimum focus on this unit is 3.5m, so any close-in work can be done with ease, but even sheep at 1.8km can be seen clearly with a high degree of clarity, impressive for less than £1000. This unit is waterproof at 1m depth for 30 minutes, so any unfortunate tumbles into the lake are not a worry (for the binoculars), and with a weight of 965g, it is lightweight enough to be carried along the highlands for the once in a lifetime hunting for a prized buck. The rangefinder on this unit is no slouch with a range of 2375m (2600yds) and able to measure at angles up to 70 degrees with an adjustable brightness display, 10s auto shutoff so you don't need to look at it if you don't want to and a rapid response time of less than 0.25 seconds.
Rangefinder
The rangefinder on this unit is impressive. It offers a distance of 2375m and can read and interpret the ballistic range of angles up to 70 degrees. An accurate readout is the most important feature of a rangefinder, and this unit delivers, with an accuracy rating of within 1m at distances of 1000m or less and within 2m at distances between 1000-2375m.
Field of View & Magnification
When it comes to field of view and magnification, there are a few important points that are often overlooked. Binoculars are designed primarily for scanning and searching, rather than for high magnification. That’s why they typically have lower power than scopes; the wider view and larger objective lenses allow you to see a broader area while still providing some magnification. This gives you the advantage of spotting and tracking subjects more easily while keeping them closer in view. This particular model offers a field of view of 117 meters at 1,000 meters, which actually surpasses some comparable high-end optics released this year.
Specifications
Magnification: 9x Objective Diameter: 45mmField of View @1000m : 117mMinimum Focus Distance: 3.5mWaterproof: 1m depth for 30minsDimensions : 154mm x 127mm x 68mmWeight: 965gWarranty: 10 YearsRangefinder Distance: 2375m (2600yds)Minimum Ranging Distance: 13.75mAngle Range: -70 to 70 degreesRange Response Time: Less than 0.25sDisplay Type: Red Illuminated OLEDBrightness Levels: 5
What's in the box
CaseNeck StrapCleaning ClothCase strapObjective coverEyepiece covers
COST
£995.99
Honest Opinion
These binoculars have not faded into irrelevance with age; the features, quality and performance of these binoculars make them a serious contender in today's market, competing with new 2025 models from other high-end manufacturers. My usual test is a field of sheep (when the farmer has them in the right paddock) at 1.8km on a hill with hedges and a small hut nearby, and these binos offer extreme performance, spotting the sheep with excellent clarity and able to see excellent detail in the shadows of the hedges at these extreme distances. If I were looking for a set of high-quality rangefinding binoculars in today's market, these would be at the top of my list.
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