Kobra EKP-1S-03M or EKP-8-02 ??

[StarLynx 0]

Which one is a better choise for a Saiga 12??..About to buy one...Anybody got experience with either?

Thanks for any info..

[CrazyJ 0]

IIRC, the EKP-8-02 is the 2nd generation one. It's lighter and lower. Only disadvantage is that it doesn't take AA batteries.

If you're oK not using AAs, get it.

[StarLynx 0]

The O3m has a little rubber coated attchment..Is that something that fits on both??..Or is the Lithium powered one just as weather/elements durable??

Edited April 17, 2005 by StarLynx

[wjm 0]

Which one is a better choise for a Saiga 12??..About to buy one...Anybody got experience with either?

Thanks for any info..

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

The following was posted by Tantal a couple years ago. It doesn't specifically relate to the Saiga 12, but does provide a good comparison of the 08 model vs the 03m model.

 

Both are produced concurrently, and serve the needs of two types of customers. There is the new generation model, and a new upgrade of the old model, confusing, huh? It can be, so here is my general outlook on them both.

 

One of the main reasons the Gen 1 (EKP-1S) Kobra sight is still in production even while the Gen 2 (-08) is introduced, is that both have distinct characteristics that, according to the needs of the user, may be of particular importance. Both sights operate in the same general manner, having the same reticle patterns and brightness adjustments, otherwise they differ in many respects.

 

Advantages and disadvantages depends on the user's demands. For instance, AA operation can be a major advantage, according to your perspective. Therefore, I will simply give you my opinion and let you decide.

 

The Gen 1 weighs 409 grams while the Gen 2 weighs 433 grams. This is with batteries loaded. The lens of the Gen 2 is slightly raised and the laser emitter housing is slightly lowered to present a slightly better field of view.. However, the Gen 1 Kobra sits closer to the receiver cover of the rifle which allows for a slightly better cheek weld. These are only marginal differences, but may be important to some users.

 

I think the Gen 1 would be useful to some due to AA operation, many people refuse to use anything else. Of course, it is also cheaper, and the new variant -03M has the strongest mount of all of the Kobra sights, and the -03M is very cosmetically pleasing to my eyes, I think it looks far better and it also comes with a rubber hood (of arguable effectiveness, the so-called "sun shield" is not available with the Gen 2 Kobra of any style).

 

The rubber hood is attractive to some and a good selling point, if nothing else. it was deleted in the new design by the engineers at the factory, who have told me it was ineffective and although it was thought by some to somehow help the shooter see the target, it was actually designed to keep glint from compromising the shooters position to the enemy..

 

The Gen 2 has easier to use controls, consisting of right hand mounted switches and all metal positioning turrets. It is slightly easier to flip on the power switch, and although both sights are zeroed in exactly the same manner with the same basic procedures, the Gen 2 is easier to adjust. However, you shouldn't have to adjust it but once, then the sight is set for your rifle.

 

All of the Kobra models are weather proof, switch assemblies are isolated with rubber gaskets, seams are sealed with RTV, battery compartments use caps with O-ring seals, and the laser exit hole is covered with a glass window. I see no reason why the sight cannot be submerged for brief periods of time, however as with a "weather proof" watch and a "waterproof" watch, I cannot tell you if the sight could be considered waterproof since this is a term measured at a certain depth for a period of time, in a technical sense. Needless to say, the extra design elements and efforts by the company to weatherize the site is highly effective.

 

As far as electrical operation, the main difference is the power source. The Gen 2 uses a coin cell lithium battery, that is more effective in low temperatures but not as cheap, or easy to find as an AA.

 

Cosmetically, I tend to like the looks of the Gen 1 (especially the finned -03M variant) but I find the Gen 2 has the better controls.

 

I favor the -03M, but it is really a decision you must make. I was very excited about the Gen 2 when it came out, because the original -03 AA version has a very weak bracket which can crack. However, the new -03M has eliminated this one thing I didn't like on the older version, so I have to say I find the original type in it's new improved version to be my pick. I would not, however, buy one from another vendor who might not have the latest style. We order monthly in small quantity to assure we get the latest developments.

 

Tantal

[6500rpm 670]

I have the EKP-1S-03M model on my mod'd GP WASR-A++++

The AA batteries have a long life and are easily available. I use the hood and it has a crisp image even in bright light. I can't compare it to the other, but I like mine a lot. Tantal included shipping in the price and he offers a dirrect 1yr warranty as a certified dealer.

[StarLynx 0]

Much-O thanks for the Info ,Guys.. .I think I'm gonna try the one with the wider FOV...Gen2...with the lith power & solid look'n mount.....right??... since I'm use'n it on a Saiga Shotgun.. I would probably use the AA one w/hood for a rifle..223/5.56 or 7.62/308...I may try a weaver mount on one of my MP5s or M16s....If I like this one I'm ordering from TANTAL

Edited April 19, 2005 by StarLynx

[Ol'smokie 0]

Any suggestions how I can get back to zero zero with my EKP-1S-03M ? 2 weeks ago I had it nat's ass on at 100 yds. after cleaning the gun and then putting it back on it was "way off", (I use it on my AK 47 exclusively now), any good way to get it back to "factory zero"? I did losen the center nut and made some adjustments, so now I don't know where the heck it is, dad gumit! (BTW, never trust anyone who says "dad gumit", J/K)

 

Thanks,

 

S

[StarLynx 0]

Smoke...seems like it goes into great detail over how to do just that on Tantals( D.Ford) web site..I the Kobra site Section

[Ol'smokie 0]

Thanks StarLynx, I shoudda known, dad gumit!

 

Shoot safe

 

S

[ForGreatJustice 1]

What's the battery life on the Kobra series?

[Ol'smokie 0]

Left my AAs on by accident for 24 hours and still nice and bright, don't know about the other batts for the EKP-8-02. By the way, it looks like the EKP-8-02 does not have a front lens shade? Is that correct? Wonder how it is in bright desert sun.

 

Shoot safe

 

S