This is my first thermal. The clarity and resolution are great! Did a lot of research and the HS635 is just awesome for the price point, warranty and DNT CS!
I love this scope. Shot my first coyote with it last night at 273 yards with my Ruger American chambered in 223. It made it 115 from where I shot it and died.
I'm amazed at how many usable features are packed in this scope. I run thermal to scan and NV in PIP to identify the target. The range finder is awesome to have.
Author: Nicholas Chen
Hello DNT fans, we want to thank you for following along with us as we grow. We love to make amazing Day and Night Technologies that you love to see. We are excited to release our new ZULUS HD V2.
The ZULUS HD V2 is an evolution of our very popular original ZULUS Digital Day and Night Vision Scope. Building on the strengths of the original and user feedback, we have enhanced it in the new V2. There are a number of improvements, so let’s dive into them.
We recognized the demand for longer runtime in outdoor settings, so we upgraded from the 18650 battery to the larger 21700 battery. With this upgrade, the typical daytime use of the ZULUS HD V2 now averages 8 hours of runtime, with a maximum of 10 hours. For nighttime use with the onboard illuminator and LRF, you can expect around 4 hours of runtime. Speaking of the IR illuminator, the ZULUS HD V2 LRF models come standard with a detachable M24 850nm IR illuminator, which can be swapped for an M24 940nm version for more discreet operation.
The buttons of the ZULUS HD V2 have been reoriented to bring smarter control. This positions the Power button forward, above the other buttons, and places the Record button at the back. DNT users will find the menu system a lot more intuitive as it is the same as our flagship ThermNight series.
We eliminated the Picatinny rail on the side of the ZULUS HD V2. This allows for a bit more range for Wi-Fi connectivity as well as faster download speeds of the videos you recorded. The micro SD card port has been replaced with internal 32 GB of storage. So if you remove the side cap, it just reveals the USB-C port for hard wired downloading of the video files to a computer, as well as for the use of USB power banks to extend the runtime of the ZULUS HD V2.
Another feature that we carried over from real-world feedback is the larger eyepiece and magnification ring with a throw lever. The ZULUS HD V2 now has a more comfortable 65mm eye relief as well as a 1920×1080 micro OLED display.
The LRF version of the ZULUS HD V2 has an improved rangefinder that can range as close as 5 yards. We have also programmed the ZULUS HD V2 so you no longer have to manually zoom out to see your LRF range box. If you are zoomed in, even at max magnification, activating the LRF will automatically switch back to base magnification so you can see the LRF range box. Press the Ranging button again to get the ballistic calibration, or hold the button down to cancel the ranging, and the ZULUS HD V2 will go back to your last magnification setting.
With regards to ballistic calculation, you can now display the ballistics which will show up on the right side of the screen. This is helpful for those shooting long range and those who want to use the Dial-In option. When the reticle shifts, the displayed ballistic is a visual confirmation that the reticle has shifted to the new position for ballistic drop.
We hope you will enjoy these improvements to our new ZULUS HD V2. They will enhance your next adventure. You will love what you see.
When you spend serious time in the field, your gear has to perform. That's why a growing number of hunters, night shooters, and outdoor content creators are switching to the DNT ZULUS HD Series, a smart digital day/night vision scope built for clarity, speed, and results.
We asked real users how the ZULUS has performed in their world. Here is what they had to say.
"Better Than Some High-dollar Cameras."– Tyron Schmidt (@H.A.B. Outdoors)
When darkness falls, most optics lose clarity—but not the ZULUS HD series. Users consistently report crisp, detailed images even under minimal moonlight.
"The low-light video is incredible. It's better than some high-quality cameras. If you don't believe me, just check it out," says Tyron Schmidt, an outdoor content creator and seasoned hunter. "That low-light vision is my favorite. It's second to none—better than any night vision gear I've used, whether scopes, binos, or monoculars. The night vision is incredible. It's better than some high-dollar cameras I've seen."
Daniel Overman, an outdoor enthusiast, feels the same: "Moneywise, why spend $450 on just a camera when you get all this for the same price?"
Powered by an advanced Sony STARVIS 2 sensor and integrated IR illuminator, the ZULUS delivers sharp, dependable visibility in total darkness. When your eyes see nothing, it still sees everything.
"I didn't even open the manual." – Daniel Overman (@Broke Boy's Manifesto)
Daniel isn't new to optics. He's an avid outdoorsman who hunts regularly and documents his experiences on video. His go-to setup is an AR-15 paired with .22LR ammunition for short- to mid-range shooting. Mounting the ZULUS HD 3-12X digital night vision scope (ZHD312) on his rifle fits his needs perfectly—lightweight, rugged, and ideal for 100–300 yard engagements.
Like many other experienced shooters, he is no stranger to digital systems, but also no fan of overcomplicated tech.
"It's pretty straightforward… I learned how to sight it in and operate it without even using the manual."
For someone with hundreds of hours behind the glass, that says a lot.
"This Scope Zeros Itself!" – Buck Pear (@Combat Ready)
Daniel's quick start was made possible by the ZULUS one-shot zero system, an advantage also highlighted by firearm enthusiast and professional reviewer Buck Pear. On his YouTube channel, where he tests a wide range of firearms and optics, the ZULUS HD 5X20 model (ZHD520) stood out to him.
"Click the power button, freeze the image, drag your reticle to the point of impact, and boom—the next shot is zeroed," Buck explains.
"This Thing is Tiny." – Tyron Schmidt (@H.A.B. Outdoors)
As a crossbow hunter, Tyron Schmidt tested the ZHD520R extensively on crossbows at close to mid-range distances, and also took it beyond 400 yards with rifles. With plenty of night hunts under his belt, he prefers lightweight, all-in-one gear. After trying many night vision scopes over the years, the ZHD520R is now his new favorite.
"The ZULUS is literally half the length of my other scopes. This thing is tiny... I love how light and compact the ZULUS is. No extra IR light to carry, no battery packs dangling around. Just mount and go," says Tyron.
Unlike bulky digital scopes of the past that often paired with massive IR lights and fuzzy sensors, the ZULUS HD is compact, sleek, and impressively powerful. "I expected this thing to be long as all get-out, and it's not. That's where the beauty is." John Mullally (@KB32 Tactical), a seasoned tactical shooter and reviewer, agrees.
This compact size allows for quicker shouldering and less fatigue during long stalks, without sacrificing tech.
"It works awesome once you tune it, and you can actually use that ballistic calculator to get the right coefficient which took me forever to figure out," Tyron adds.
Even models packed with advanced features like a built-in ballistic calculator (BC) and laser rangefinder (LRF) measure no more than 8 inches in length.
"Decorated Like a Christmas Tree—But It Works." – Daniel Overman (@Broke Boy's Manifesto)
Reticle and color choice matter in the field, especially in haze, glare, or shadows. ZULUS offers six reticle styles and five color modes, so shooters can adapt to their eyes and environment.
"I like switching between the white and the yellow. They also have green, red, and black, but this reticle here is my favorite because it's literally decorated like a Christmas tree." Daniel laughs.
These color choices are more than cosmetic. White can pop in shaded timber, while yellow may offer better contrast in hazy conditions or reduce eye fatigue during extended sessions. It's personalization with real purpose.
"Long Shot, But We Did It." – Buck Pear (@Combat Ready)
Using a Custom Aero Precision M5 6.5 Creedmoor with the ZHD520R, Buck tested long-range shooting at 1,000 yards. The result? A satisfying bullseye.
"1,000 yards with the DNT Zulus digital scope — got it. Just check that out. We were shooting way up there, basically at the end of that dirt road — that's as far as the zoom goes. Long shot, but we did it." Buck says on his video.
"It Just Records By Itself." – Daniel Overman (@Broke Boy's Manifesto)
For hunters and trainers who want to capture the moment without distraction, the ZULUS HD features Recoil Activated Video (RAV)—automatically saving footage from before and after each shot.
"If you're a hunter, you can set your camera up to automatically film when you take shots. You don't have to worry about turning on your recorder or remembering it, or taking the precious time it takes to actually turn on the camera. It's just going to pick up your footage for you, and then you can watch it later." Daniel says.
Whether you're building content or memories, ZULUS makes post-shot review effortless.
Built for All Shooters, Priced for More
The ZULUS HD Series offers four models—from streamlined to fully loaded with laser rangefinders and ballistic calculators:
● ZHD520R – Top-tier with Laser Rangefinder (LRF) and Ballistic Calculator (BC)
● ZHD520 – Same sharp optics, no LRF/BC
● ZHD312R – Compact, feature-packed with LRF and BC
● ZHD312 – Lightweight and capable
Whether you're fine-tuning at the range or scanning open terrain, there’s a ZULUS for your style. "This is one of the coolest electronic optics I've ever seen," says John Mullally.
Starting at just $394.99 and topping out at $615.99, ZULUS HD gives you pro-grade features at honest pricing, plus stackable discounts for even more value.
The ZULUS HD Series has already changed how shooters see in the dark. On July 2, a new chapter begins. Built on everything that made the original great, and refined by real-world feedback, the ZULUS HD V2 is almost here.
Get ready to own the night again.
Explore the ZULUS HD Series: https://us.dntoptics.com/pages/zulus
Author: Nicholas Chen
Thank you for joining us here at DNT and we welcome you to learn more about Night Vision. Here at DNT Optics, we are passionate about creating products that enhance and augment your ability to see in the dark. But to truly appreciate how far we have come, let us take a stroll down memory lane.
From Firelight to Gen 0: The Birth of Night Vision
Humankind has evolved and one of the earliest inventions to help us see in the dark was fire. Fire has a lot of properties like helping us to stay warm when the environment is cold. It also helps to cook our food but just as important, fire helps illuminate the darkness at night. Humans have a natural fear of the unknown and that includes the dark. We need to see what is lurking at night that could possibly harm us. So for thousands of years we relied on burning materials to create fire which also produces light as a byproduct.
However it wasn’t until the second World War, that humans started to explore other spectrums of light for weapon use. Specifically the infrared spectrum of light. The first night vision scope was invented by the Germans in the 1930s. It did not amplify light but instead relied on active illumination. This is the birth of Gen 0 night vision systems. A special light was used to produce infrared light. The Gen 0 scope could see this light and show the shooter what lurks in the dark. By utilizing the infrared spectrum, it is invisible to our naked eyes giving the user the advantage. While the Gen 0 night vision systems worked, they were big and bulky. But more importantly they did not amplify light.
Gen 0
Gen 1: Light Amplification and the Starlight Scope
The US began creating actual light amplification systems and gave birth to Gen 1 night vision. This technology was utilized in the Vietnam War in the Starlight Scope. Some companies created cascade tubes which stacked multiple image intensifiers to boost their performance. Some Gen 1 cascade tubes look similar, in performance, to Gen 3 night vision with regards to their light amplification. However these systems did not have any auto gating or auto brightness control.
Gen 1: The U.S. Army AN/PVS-2
Gen 1: An M16A1 rifle fitted with the AN/PVS-2 Starlight scope
Gen 2 & Gen 3: The Peak of Analog Night Vision
By the 1970s the US and other countries continued to experiment with different materials and developed Gen 2 night vision. The form factor of the image intensifier tube became smaller which allowed night vision goggles to be smaller and lightweight enough to be worn on the head.
Gen 2: A cut-open and depotted AN/PVS-5, showing the components of a night-vision device
The US further developed their image intensifier technology to create Gen 3 image intensifiers. Performance increased significantly but according to industry experts, analog night vision has reached the end of its evolutionary cycle. To that end we see companies experimenting with digital systems to augment vision and see in the dark. One direction we have seen is the creation of EBAPS, Electron Bombarded Active Pixel Sensor. Rather than using a phosphor screen to display the amplified light, they replaced it with a CMOS sensor. They are still using analog image intensifier technology to amplify light but by using a CMOS sensor, they can send the digital image to a screen as well as integrate the signal with other digital systems.
Gen 3: An early development version of the AN/PVS-7 goggle
Gen 3: An AN/PVS-14 night vision device
Digital Night Vision: A New Era with CMOS, EBAPS, and Expanded Capabilities
In 2014 we saw the first step in the evolutionary ladder for low light sensitivity in a digital CMOS system. The Sony A7S mirrorless digital camera was able to see in the dark without the aid of active illumination. Just like analog night vision, these digital sensors did need a modicum of ambient light to see, such as a full moon. It is only recently we have seen newer digital CMOS systems nipping at the heels of analog night vision in terms of light amplification.
While analog night vision is still the reigning king in terms of light amplification and energy efficiency, there are some significant advantages to digital night vision. Just like the EBAPS systems, you can easily integrate a digital image with other digital systems like thermal sensors, laser range finders, and ballistic calculators. You can record these digital signals and even beam them wirelessly to viewing devices like a smart phone. We are seeing digital systems becoming more efficient and their performance is still evolving.
Another added advantage that digital night vision has over analog night vision is the sensitivity to out of band wavelengths of light. Analog night vision sensitivity starts to drop off around 940nm and in some cases 1064nm. Digital CMOS night vision systems can see light all the way to 1200 nm. If utilized properly, you can use infrared illuminators and infrared lasers that emit photons in those higher wavelengths. Analog night vision will struggle to see anything past 1064nm, while digital night vision can see it clearly.
The Future of Night Vision Scopes: ZULUS HD and the Path Ahead
The future of night vision, and specifically scopes, looks bright. Digital night vision is easier and cheaper to manufacture, thus making night vision more accessible. More and more people can now “own the night”.
The ZULUS HD series is one of the key tools making that vision a reality. With a high-resolution 1920×1080 micro-OLED display running at 60Hz, it delivers sharp, real-time visuals without blur. Its digital zoom, intuitive controls, and lightweight yet rugged design make it dependable across all environments, from open terrain to dense brush. Fully waterproof and shock-resistant, it allows hunters and shooters to move with clarity and confidence in the dark.
But progress doesn’t stop here. This July, we will introduce the ZULUS HD V2, a refined evolution shaped by real-world feedback. With improved usability, longer endurance, and enhanced display performance, it is built to meet the demands of those who expect more after every mission. Stay tuned.
Explore the ZULUS HD Series: https://us.dntoptics.com/pages/zulus
When it comes to digital optics for hunting and target shooting, selecting the right tool for the job is essential. Two of the most popular options on the market today are the Hydra and the ThermNight series, each offering unique advantages tailored to different hunting and shooting scenarios. This article breaks down their key features, similarities, and differences to help you decide which one fits your needs best.
Key Similarities: Thermal Imaging and Advanced Recording
Both the Hydra and ThermNight optics are built with a 640x512 thermal sensor, offering crisp and clear imaging for hunters operating in low-light or nighttime environments. Each model provides a 1.5-6X magnification range, ensuring effective target acquisition at various distances.
A standout feature in both models is recoil-activated recording, which automatically captures the moments just before and after a shot is fired. This allows users to review and analyze their shots without needing to manually start recording—an excellent tool for tracking, training, and post-hunt analysis.
Where They Differ: Use Cases and Unique Features
Hydra: The Versatile Clip-On and Scanner
The Hydra is designed for maximum adaptability, making it ideal for hunters who already have a preferred optic but want to add thermal capabilities. Its compact form allows it to be used as a clip-on device in front of an LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) or a reflex sight, providing a seamless transition between standard and thermal imaging.
Another key benefit of the Hydra is its super resolution digital image enhancement. This technology improves image clarity when magnified, mitigating the pixelation that often occurs with digital zoom. As a result, hunters can identify targets more effectively at greater distances.
Additionally, the Hydra’s small footprint makes it an excellent handheld thermal scanner. Whether stored in a pocket or used with a quick-detach mount, it offers flexibility for spotting game without always needing to point a firearm at a target.
ThermNight: The All-in-One Solution
For those seeking a self-contained thermal and night vision system, the ThermNight series delivers a complete package. Unlike the Hydra, this unit combines a thermal scope with a day/night digital optic, allowing hunters to operate seamlessly in different lighting conditions without switching devices.
One of its standout features is the integrated laser rangefinder, which works in conjunction with an onboard ballistic calculator. Once the range is measured, the scope automatically adjusts for bullet drop, displaying precise holdovers or even adjusting the reticle to match the target’s distance. This capability makes the ThermNight particularly advantageous for long-range shooting.
With a 5-20X magnification range, the ThermNight excels in both close-range and extended-range engagements. Whether hunting varmints at short distances or tracking larger game at a distance, it provides an adaptable, all-in-one solution.
Picking The Right Thermal Optic: Hydra vs. ThermNight
Which One Is Right for You?
● Choose the Hydra if you want a clip-on thermal device that works with your existing optic, need a compact handheld scanner, or value super resolution for improved image quality at higher magnifications.
● Choose the ThermNight if you need a standalone thermal and digital day/night optic, require a ballistic calculator with laser rangefinding, or want an all-in-one system without swapping optics.
Both models offer exceptional performance, but your choice ultimately depends on how you plan to use your digital optic. Whether enhancing an existing setup with the Hydra or opting for the all-inclusive functionality of the ThermNight, these optics provide hunters with cutting-edge technology for every situation.
Digital optics have become indispensable tools for professionals and enthusiasts across industries, offering advanced solutions for surveillance, wildlife observation, and tactical operations. Among the cutting-edge offerings in this domain are the TNC225R, TNC335R, and TNC635R multispectral scopes from ThermNight. Each of these models comes with unique features and benefits, catering to diverse needs. This blog post delves into the specifications, advantages, and key differences between these three remarkable devices.
ThermNight Overview: All-In-One Aming Solution
The ThermNight Multispectral scope series is designed for use in any weather condition and lighting environment, providing a reliable and versatile solution for professionals and enthusiasts alike. The thermal and night vision combination allows for faster target detection and delivers high-quality digital images for accurate identification.
Features and Specifications
1. TNC225R:
· Display and Resolution: The TNC225R features a micro-OLED display with a resolution of 1024x768 pixels, offering clear and detailed visuals.
· Thermal Imaging: Equipped with an uncooled infrared sensor and a 25mm objective lens, it delivers exceptional thermal detection.
· Magnification and Field of View:
o Visible Light (FoV): 6.13° x 3.45° x 7.03°(HxVxD)
o Thermal (FoV): 7.03° x 5.28° x 8.78°(HxVxD)
· Weight: Approximately 22.8 ounces, ensuring easy portability.
· Battery Life: Operates for up to 5 hours on an 18650 flat-top battery, with USB-C support for external power.
2. TNC335R:
· Enhanced Imaging: The TNC335R is equipped with a 384 x 288 thermal sensor and a 7.53° x 5.65° field of view (FOV), allowing for enhanced target detection.
· Magnification and Field of View:
o Visible Light (FoV): 5.31° x 2.99° x 6.09°. (HxVxD)
o Thermal (FoV): 7.53° x 5.65° x 9.41°(HxVxD)
· Weight: Approximately 25 ounces, striking a balance between portability and features.
· Battery Life: Offers up to 6 hours, ideal for extended outdoor use.
3. TNC635R:
· Professional-Grade Performance: The flagship model, TNC635R, boasts unmatched clarity and imaging precision.
· Magnification and Field of View:
o Visible Light (FoV): 5.31° x 2.99° x 6.09°. (HxVxD)
o Thermal (FoV): 12.52° x 10.02° x 15.7° (HxVxD)
· Weight: Approximately 30 ounces, ensuring durability and stability during professional applications.
· Battery Life: Operates for up to 5.5 hours, making it suitable for demanding environments.
Benefits of Each Model
TNC225R:
o Portability: Lightweight and compact design makes it an excellent choice for on-the-go applications.
o Affordable Entry-Level Option: Ideal for users exploring the capabilities of thermal imaging.
o Clear Visibility: Suitable for short to medium-range observation.
TNC335R:
o Versatility: With improved magnification and a balanced field of view, it’s perfect for versatile use.
o Mid-Range Performer: Bridges the gap between cost and functionality for enthusiasts.
o Extended Battery Life: Ideal for users requiring longer operational periods.
TNC635R:
o Unparalleled Performance: The larger field of view for visible light and enhanced thermal imaging make it indispensable for professional applications.
o Durability: Designed for rugged use in demanding environments.
Key Differences
Feature
TNC225R
TNC335R
TNC635R
Visible Light (FoV)
H: 6.13°, V: 3.45°, D: 7.03°
H: 5.31°, V: 2.99°, D: 6.09°
H: 5.31°, V: 2.99°, D: 6.09°
Thermal (FoV)
H: 7.03°, V: 5.28°, D: 8.78°
H: 7.53°, V: 5.65°, D: 9.41°
H: 12.52°, V: 10.02°, D: 15.7°
Magnification (Thermal)
3x~12x
2.5x~10x
1.5~6x
Thermal Sensor
256x192
384x288
640x512
Eye-Relief
45mm
65mm
65mm
Weight
22.8 oz
25 oz
30 oz
Battery Life
Up to 5 hours
Up to 6 hours
Up to 5.5 hours
Price Range
Affordable
Mid-range
Premium
Choosing the Right Model
· TNC225R: Best for casual users who need a lightweight, compact, and affordable device for close to medium-range use.
· TNC335R: A balanced performer with improved features for enthusiasts looking for versatility and extended field performance.
· TNC635R: A high-end option for professionals requiring the best imaging quality, broader field of view, and exceptional durability.
Conclusion
The TNC225R, TNC335R, and TNC635R cater to diverse user needs, offering options for everyone from beginners to seasoned professionals. Whether you’re observing wildlife, conducting surveillance, or engaging in tactical operations, there’s a ThermNight optic tailored to your requirements.
Explore these models further and elevate your digital optics experience today!
Author: Daniel Y
DNT Optics is a new player in the optics space. Most of their lineup focuses on night vision and thermal optics, but they also have a new traditional rifle scope. Known as TheOne, it is a first focal plane 7-35x56 scope designed for long-range use. I am always game for trying a new scope, and when DNT offered to let me try one out I agreed.
Features
TheOne scope has a 34mm main tube and a 56mm objective lens. This a large scope, with an overall length of 16 inches, and weighing in at 42 ounces. That’s just over 2.5 pounds. With the added weight of rings or a one-piece mount, that could easily be three pounds.
DNT includes a throw lever for the magnification ring. It attaches with an Allen screw, and the appropriate wrench is included as well. I installed the throw lever before mounting the scope because I always prefer to have one on an optic. This is a nice value-add by DNT because a clamp-on throw lever is usually going to cost at least $20 or $30 more, and most shooters will want one.
Anyone in the market for a scope with these features is probably considering the Arken EP-5 as well. It is a very comparable optic, and that is not a coincidence. The team at DNT Optics used to work at Arken, and the designs do have some overlap. If you compare them side-by-side, or look at the specification lists, there is clearly some shared DNA.
The box
Inside the box - the scope sits in a foam cutout, and the sun shade is slipped over the eyepiece with another piece of foam
DNT Optics includes a throw lever, and a little sticker on the bottom of the scope that says Made in China
Adding the sunshade makes TheOne even longer, but is nice to have on bright days.
The illumination and parallax adjustment are both on the left side turret
Two small screws hold on the throw lever
Throw lever installed on the magnification ring
Reticle Design
The reticle design is an MRAD tree style, as has become standard for this kind of scope. DNT calls it the TOR reticle. I really like the added half-mil floating dots inside the grid. Each full mil of elevation has a horizontal line with 0.2 mil dots for wind holds. But in between each of those rows are floating dots, spaced 0.5 mil of elevation and windage from the surrounding lines. If you are holding 3 mil of elevation and 1 mil for wind, and the spotter says to “add a half” for wind or elevation, it is very easy to do so quickly.
Reticle diagrams from DNT Optics
Specifications
Focal Plane: First
FOV: 7x 16.66' @100 yds, 35x 3.34' @100 yds
Tube Diameter: 34mm
Minimum Parallax: 25 yards
Length: 16 inches
Weight: 42 ounces
Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
Recoil Rating: .50 BMG
Illumination: Red, 6 Brightness Settings
Waterproof: Yes
Battery: CR2032
Purging Gas: Nitrogen
Zeroing
The zeroing process with TheOne scope works just about like any other scope. After quick boresighting, it was landing rounds on paper. As with any other scope, once I had a group it was a simple matter to dial in windage and elevation to move that group into the bullseye. It was a simple matter to make those adjustments because the tracking was consistent, both directionally and in the amount of movement from each click. The turrets set back easily to the zero position just by loosening the screws around the outside of the turret, turning it to zero, and retightening the screws.
Once the scope was zeroed it was time to set the zero stop. Sometimes, setting scope zero stops is a chore or is more fiddly than it should be. Not so with TheOne. All you have to do is loosen the red set screw on the side of the turret, then tighten down the red screw on top of the turret until it stops. That screw keeps the turret from moving down below the zero point. Then simply retighten the set screw and it is done.
The parallax does adjust down to 25 yards, so zeroing on an indoor range is still possible if necessary. This will also appeal to the rimfire crowd. Both indoors and outdoors, the parallax adjustment allowed for a nice clean image.
One interesting design choice on TheOne is the windage turret zero location. Scopes with target turrets always have a mark on the tube that points to the turret to show how much windage or elevation is dialed in. That point is basically always in the middle of the tube, but on this scope that is not the case. The windage mark sits toward the top of the scope, making it easier to see the windage setting without getting off the gun as much.
Note that the indicator on the windage turret is not in line with the main tube, it is offset vertically for easier viewing.
In Action
I don't have a .50 BMG to see if the recoil rating is correct (I know, this is the perfect excuse to get one), but I do have a .300 Win Mag. I had a bunch of reloaded ammo from prior powder and bullet tests that I needed to shoot up to use the brass for other things. A 220-grain bullet from the .300 WM does not produce anywhere near the same recoil as a .50, but it is still a hearty kick. Unsurprisingly, this did not cause any issues with the scope.
Next, I moved it to my Mk12-ish AR. I test a lot of optics on that gun because it’s fun to shoot, has cheap ammo, is accurate, and looks good in pictures. This is not the kind of scope that would be most at home on a DMR but for review purposes it made sense. I used it on an indoor range for zeroing, and outdoors from 30 yards out to 600. At all distances and in all lighting conditions it provided a clear image and useful eyebox. The glass quality and monstrous lenses made it easy to spot splash on targets and off of them (not that any of us would ever admit to missing a shot).
On both rifles, the scope provided a great eyebox. Even at maximum power, it is not too hard to get a good image clear of scope shadow. As will happen with any scope, the image is darker at high magnification than at low magnification. But it is still usable! I also tried some close range transition drills on 7x to see how it ran as a DMR scope, and while it worked, the weight and narrower field of view that is a necessary part of a 7x bottom end worked against it. This scope would be more at home on a bolt gun, or possibly a semiauto .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor, than a 5.56 rifle.
One thing DNT nailed with this scope is the turret clicks. They are crisp, easy to count by feel, easy to hear, and hard to dial the wrong amount. This is one feature that feels like it is from a drastically more expensive scope. DNT scores a 10 out of 10 on the clicks.
I was able to briefly shoot TheOne side-by-side with an Arken EP-5, and while they were very similar there are a couple of differences. The glass quality in TheOne seemed a little better to my eye, and the aforementioned turret clicks were more definite and tactile.
Scope Image
Taking pictures through a rifle scope is never a perfect representation of what it actually looks like to the naked eye. I still like to include them in reviews because it is the best representation of what it looks like to be behind the scope without actually being there. So take these pictures with a grain of salt. Don’t zoom way in to try and make judgments on clarity, these pictures will not hold up on that level.
Glass clarity and image quality can be measured in a lab, but most of us can only offer subjective impressions and observations. I would rate the glass in DNT’s TheOne scope as very good. The phrase “just as good” has become a running joke on the internet because people love saying that less expensive items are just as good as more expensive competitors. That is rarely, if ever, the case. This scope retails for around $650 when purchased directly from DNT. The glass quality is extremely impressive for the money. It does not outclass scopes that cost two, three, or four times as much. Those scopes really show their worth in the worst conditions, like hunting at first and last light, or after being dropped down the side of a mountain. But for a scope like this, which you’d be insane to haul into the backcountry, those are not things that matter too much. This is not to say that the image is bad in low light. It is not. But it lacks a certain “pop” that the premium scopes offer when looking for things like deer and elk in the first minutes of legal shooting light.
But a perspective check is warranted here. Ten years ago this would have been a $1,000 scope, or possibly more. 20 years ago a scope like this, with a first focal plane reticle and turrets and a reticle both calibrated in milliradians was not a category of optic that really existed, let alone retailing at a price point like this. We truly have it good to have scopes like this on the market at affordable prices.
In this series of pictures, the target is a 10-inch coffin at just over 200 yards.
Minimum magnification
Image at 18x
Image at 18x with illumination turned on
Image at 35x
Image at 35x with illumination turned on
Conclusion
DNT Optics packed a lot of features and quality into TheOne 7-35x56 FFP scope. All of those features and big lenses mean that TheOne is a hefty scope. But the glass quality is good, and the clicks are what other manufacturers should strive to put on their scopes. This is a compelling option if you want to shoot long range without breaking the bank, or are getting into a competition like NRL 22.
Don’t get this scope if you are setting up a rifle that you plan to carry long distances, or for a rifle that is light enough that the weight of this scope would throw it out of balance. The right match for this scope is something like a heavy .308 bolt gun, or maybe a .338 Lapua that you shoot on the range during business hours. It felt much more at home on a hefty .300 Win Mag than a DMR. The reticle, crisp image, and consistent tracking are all tailored to shooting at distance. DNT did a great job with TheOne 7-35x56 scope. It looks and clicks like a more expensive scope, and as long as you don’t have to carry it too far, it is a great value.
https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/tfb-review-dnt-optics-theone-7-35x56-mrad-scope-44817193