The 2021 Thermal and Night Vision Thread

[.243 WSSM]

Originally Posted by rossivey

Saw that earlier. Just got my Thermion in yesterday. But the only difference I saw was the lens. Going to a 1.0 from a 1.2. Mine was on order from July so I’m happy with it. Don’t want to wait another 6 months.

I think you will enjoy the xq38. I have been teaching those fannin co hogs that they aren't the only ones having fun after dark anymore. Sux you had to wait that long to get in the game. I was able to purchase 2 xq38's on amazon and optics planet and there was no wait and I got a discount. I also got a axion key xm30 scanner on amazon for 1500 off as a return item and still has full warranty. This was when no one had the xq38's in stock. Now I have to see how long it's going to take to fill bois d arc up. The way they keep letting water out it's going to be a while

[Fordnandez]

Not the best video in the world but a successful one. One of my friends was using my BIL's Wraith HD 4x and did not turn on the IR light. I am actually glad he did it because it shows how good of an image it can display without it. My BIL is seriously considering getting the 2x model but he is trying to decide if he wants to get the 4k, the trade off being less FOV with the 4k since it is 3x.......... and then there is the cost that doesnt help.

Ended up with two dead hogs from the video. Second and third shots looked like misses which leads me to believe he hit two with the first shot. However we found the second pig in the direction that the last pig ran off so not sure if that third shot bouced off the ground and ended up hitting him lol.

Sightmark Wraith HD 4x Hog Hunt #2 - YouTube

[sharkhunter]

Originally Posted by Fordnandez

Not the best video in the world but a successful one. One of my friends was using my BIL's Wraith HD 4x and did not turn on the IR light. I am actually glad he did it because it shows how good of an image it can display without it. My BIL is seriously considering getting the 2x model but he is trying to decide if he wants to get the 4k, the trade off being less FOV with the 4k since it is 3x.......... and then there is the cost that doesnt help.

Ended up with two dead hogs from the video. Second and third shots looked like misses which leads me to believe he hit two with the first shot. However we found the second pig in the direction that the last pig ran off so not sure if that third shot bouced off the ground and ended up hitting him lol.

Sightmark Wraith HD 4x Hog Hunt #2 - YouTube

I ordered wraith HD 2x from opticplanet and it just showed shipped today. 99% of our hog hunting will be under 100 yds. I’m hoping the Ir light on the unit is good. I’m hearing a lot of guys are upgrading to a better IR light like the coyote cannon but I think they’re shooting 300+.

[Fordnandez]

Originally Posted by sharkhunter

I ordered wraith HD 2x from opticplanet and it just showed shipped today. 99% of our hog hunting will be under 100 yds. I’m hoping the Ir light on the unit is good. I’m hearing a lot of guys are upgrading to a better IR light like the coyote cannon but I think they’re shooting 300+.

I think you will be fine under 100 yards with the factory IR. As you mentioned there are better options that will give a better picture but it isnt going to help you kill more hogs at 100 yards or less. Glad to hear you got a 2x, the 4x is way to much.

[GregO]

Originally Posted by sharkhunter

I ordered wraith HD 2x from opticplanet and it just showed shipped today. 99% of our hog hunting will be under 100 yds. I’m hoping the Ir light on the unit is good. I’m hearing a lot of guys are upgrading to a better IR light like the coyote cannon but I think they’re shooting 300+.

I think that you will be thrilled with that model. The factory IR is perfectly fine for 100 yards and beyond. I do have a Sniper hog lights 50 LRX, which is nice, and not huge like the Coyote Canon. It may be brighter than the factory IR, but way more than needed. The only downside to the factory IR is that it just has low, medium and high settings, the 50LRX has a rheostat dial and is quieter. (and that's nit picking) Be sure and post some videos of your hunts.

[duckmanep]

Originally Posted by sharkhunter

I ordered wraith HD 2x from opticplanet and it just showed shipped today. 99% of our hog hunting will be under 100 yds. I’m hoping the Ir light on the unit is good. I’m hearing a lot of guys are upgrading to a better IR light like the coyote cannon but I think they’re shooting 300+.

I run a 2x and stock IR is fine for 100 yds. But I run a cannon because many times I am wanting to identify critters out to 400 some of the places I hunt.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[sharkhunter]

Originally Posted by duckmanep

I run a 2x and stock IR is fine for 100 yds. But I run a cannon because many times I am wanting to identify critters out to 400 some of the places I hunt.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

Does the stock bracket fit the coyote cannon ? Just wondering what I would need to mount it.

[Fordnandez]

Originally Posted by sharkhunter

Does the stock bracket fit the coyote cannon ? Just wondering what I would need to mount it.

What gun are you putting it on?

[duckmanep]

Originally Posted by sharkhunter

Does the stock bracket fit the coyote cannon ? Just wondering what I would need to mount it.

both are rail mounted. scope has rail on top of it. but, mounting the IR light under the gun is a better option for less flash for follow up shots.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[Sleepy]

Took out a couple of fellas from Kentucky on their first hog hunt last night and we broke in the Hogster R35. I was super pleased with this thermal!







Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Dale Moser]

Just getting into researching all of this, and it's not nearly as much fun as I thought it might be.

[Lip]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

Just getting into researching all of this, and it's not nearly as much fun as I thought it might be.

Lot of new scopes in the market over the last few months. What’s your budget, what’s your target, and what distances will you be hunting? I’d recommend splitting your budget between a scanner and a scope. Swinging your rifle back and forth all night to scan the fields gets old quick. You’ll see Jason Robertson with Outdoor Legacy Gear mentioned a lot because he is a wealth of knowledge and will help you get into the right scope for you if you call him and share your hunting scenario with him. You’re looking at a good time as some new less expensive as well as new higher end options have recently come on the market.

[Fordnandez]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

Just getting into researching all of this, and it's not nearly as much fun as I thought it might be.

All I can recomend is to make sure whatever you decide on make sure the base magnification suites your hunting situation.

[Dale Moser]

Originally Posted by Lip

Lot of new scopes in the market over the last few months. What’s your budget, what’s your target, and what distances will you be hunting? I’d recommend splitting your budget between a scanner and a scope. Swinging your rifle back and forth all night to scan the fields gets old quick. You’ll see Jason Robertson with Outdoor Legacy Gear mentioned a lot because he is a wealth of knowledge and will help you get into the right scope for you if you call him and share your hunting scenario with him. You’re looking at a good time as some new less expensive as well as new higher end options have recently come on the market.

I've seen his name, and he will be my first call after I figure out what I want.

Two of my buddies bought the Pulsar 38 something (not the one that looks like a traditional scope) last year, and they're awesome! Like you said though, pain in the butt for locating critters from the truck unless we have both of them. We've been locating, then mounting with the QD before we stalk, but that seems to be leading to some accuracy issues. We primarily corn select spots, and some roads, then go back out driving into the wind until we see them, get out and shoot, or drive up to ~80yds and shoot. Primarily all pigs, but we'll shoot a yote if we happen across them. My son and I will be setting in a blind some with it too.

I'd resigned myself to spending that kind of cash on the new xq38, but now I see these videos with the Wraith, and just realized it's about 1/8 the cost....I could have a BUNCH more toys with that extra $2500 or so.

I'll keep reading, I appreciate the info out here so far.

[sharkhunter]

Originally Posted by Fordnandez

What gun are you putting it on?

Ruger american predator 6.5 CM. Not sure if there’s a way to mount the light under the barrel? I have a clamp that clamps directly to a barrel but was afraid it might hurt accuracy?

[sharkhunter]

Originally Posted by duckmanep

both are rail mounted. scope has rail on top of it. but, mounting the IR light under the gun is a better option for less flash for follow up shots.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

I’d like to but will need to figure something out for a bolt gun.

[Fordnandez]

Originally Posted by sharkhunter

I’d like to but will need to figure something out for a bolt gun.

I got this for my RAP that works great.

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1016956741

[Fordnandez]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

I've seen his name, and he will be my first call after I figure out what I want.

Two of my buddies bought the Pulsar 38 something (not the one that looks like a traditional scope) last year, and they're awesome! Like you said though, pain in the butt for locating critters from the truck unless we have both of them. We've been locating, then mounting with the QD before we stalk, but that seems to be leading to some accuracy issues. We primarily corn select spots, and some roads, then go back out driving into the wind until we see them, get out and shoot, or drive up to ~80yds and shoot. Primarily all pigs, but we'll shoot a yote if we happen across them. My son and I will be setting in a blind some with it too.

I'd resigned myself to spending that kind of cash on the new xq38, but now I see these videos with the Wraith, and just realized it's about 1/8 the cost....I could have a BUNCH more toys with that extra $2500 or so.

I'll keep reading, I appreciate the info out here so far.

Nothing wrong with starting off with a Wraith to see if it is something that you want to get into or find yourself night hunting more than you thought which would justify buying thermal. The Wraith will hold 66-75% of its value in the event that you want to upgrade. I would suggest you get the 2x base mag and not the 4x.

[aironeout]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

Just getting into researching all of this, and it's not nearly as much fun as I thought it might be.

Once again, you and I are in the same boat.

>E

[Lip]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

I've seen his name, and he will be my first call after I figure out what I want.

Two of my buddies bought the Pulsar 38 something (not the one that looks like a traditional scope) last year, and they're awesome! Like you said though, pain in the butt for locating critters from the truck unless we have both of them. We've been locating, then mounting with the QD before we stalk, but that seems to be leading to some accuracy issues. We primarily corn select spots, and some roads, then go back out driving into the wind until we see them, get out and shoot, or drive up to ~80yds and shoot. Primarily all pigs, but we'll shoot a yote if we happen across them. My son and I will be setting in a blind some with it too.

I'd resigned myself to spending that kind of cash on the new xq38, but now I see these videos with the Wraith, and just realized it's about 1/8 the cost....I could have a BUNCH more toys with that extra $2500 or so.

I'll keep reading, I appreciate the info out here so far.

Nothing wrong with a Wraith but if you've been looking through an XQ38 you probably won't be happy with it. If you get one, I agree with above - get the 2X for field of view unless you're hunting feeders. The AGM Rattlers and Bering Hogsters run from $2000 - $2700 so depending on whether you want to record or not these may be good options with some money to spare for one of the less expensive thermal scanners. Decide what you want and get on a waiting list because almost everything is on backorder.

[duckmanep]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

I've seen his name, and he will be my first call after I figure out what I want.

Two of my buddies bought the Pulsar 38 something (not the one that looks like a traditional scope) last year, and they're awesome! Like you said though, pain in the butt for locating critters from the truck unless we have both of them. We've been locating, then mounting with the QD before we stalk, but that seems to be leading to some accuracy issues. We primarily corn select spots, and some roads, then go back out driving into the wind until we see them, get out and shoot, or drive up to ~80yds and shoot. Primarily all pigs, but we'll shoot a yote if we happen across them. My son and I will be setting in a blind some with it too.

I'd resigned myself to spending that kind of cash on the new xq38, but now I see these videos with the Wraith, and just realized it's about 1/8 the cost....I could have a BUNCH more toys with that extra $2500 or so.

I'll keep reading, I appreciate the info out here so far.

and the Wraith is full color in the day, so recording kid daytime shots is nice too. Sounds like you need a thermal and the kid needs a Wraith for his birthday or Christmas!

[cehorn]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

I've seen his name, and he will be my first call after I figure out what I want.

Two of my buddies bought the Pulsar 38 something (not the one that looks like a traditional scope) last year, and they're awesome! Like you said though, pain in the butt for locating critters from the truck unless we have both of them. We've been locating, then mounting with the QD before we stalk, but that seems to be leading to some accuracy issues. We primarily corn select spots, and some roads, then go back out driving into the wind until we see them, get out and shoot, or drive up to ~80yds and shoot. Primarily all pigs, but we'll shoot a yote if we happen across them. My son and I will be setting in a blind some with it too.

I'd resigned myself to spending that kind of cash on the new xq38, but now I see these videos with the Wraith, and just realized it's about 1/8 the cost....I could have a BUNCH more toys with that extra $2500 or so.

I'll keep reading, I appreciate the info out here so far.

I have been using a wraith since 2019 and they work great for hunting out of a stand. I have killed tons of pigs and a few other critters. My kids have also killed deer using the wraith (during the day) with full color video. It helps to go back and see where they were actually holding vs where they thought they were holding. The wraith isn't the greatest for scanning and finding animals but it is great for once you get on them or at a feeder. I just added a thermal monocular but haven't hunted with it yet. I will this weekend and I'll update but I think it will add a lot. I think the thermal will help a lot spotting game and I won't be swinging my gun while looking. The wraith's add quite a bit of weight to the gun though when you factor in the IR light. You can go this route for less than $2k which is what I have done. Some on here will tell you buy once cry once and talk down the wraith, etc. That may be true for some but I have been more than happy with what the Wraith provides and how I use it. It will only get better in my opinion with the monocular.

[Dale Moser]

Originally Posted by duckmanep

and the Wraith is full color in the day, so recording kid daytime shots is nice too. Sounds like you need a thermal and the kid needs a Wraith for his birthday or Christmas!

See, this is how I get in trouble.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[muzzlebrake]

I bought the Wraith 4K Max because it will fit my style of hunting a sendero chum line and feeders while sitting in a chair. I set my rifle on the BOG Deathgrip tripod and can swing it up/down/side to side with ease and don't worry about the 12+lb of weight. The IR illuminator that came with it will light up cats in a yard a block and a half down the street. Should be good enough for pigs. I'll know later this month. 2 swine hunts scheduled. The one shot zero works perfect. I set mine in daylight at 30 yds and then at 100 it was within 2 moa. Made that adjustment with one more shot and let em fly. I now have 2 different rifles programmed in it and about to do a 3rd. The QD mount hold perfect zero when switching mounts too. Having one scope that has saved reticle settings for 4 different rifles and calibers is pretty cool.

[Dale Moser]

It looks like the ones we’ve been using are Trail XQ38s, which appear to be out of production...

The Thermion XQ38 appears to be the same beast in a different skin, but **** that thing is huge!

Is it awkward at that size?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[rossivey]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

It looks like the ones we’ve been using are Trail XQ38s, which appear to be out of production...

The Thermion XQ38 appears to be the same beast in a different skin, but **** that thing is huge!

Is it awkward at that size?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I just mine in last week and it’s basically the same size as a day scope. It’s probably a tad bigger. Haven’t mounted it yet but I’ve never liked the block style thermals.

[Dale Moser]

Originally Posted by rossivey

I just mine in last week and it’s basically the same size as a day scope. It’s probably a tad bigger. Haven’t mounted it yet but I’ve never liked the block style thermals.

What type of rifle are you bolting it on?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[rossivey]

Originally Posted by dale moser

what type of rifle are you bolting it on?


Sent from my iphone using tapatalk

ar-15

[Russ81]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

It looks like the ones we’ve been using are Trail XQ38s, which appear to be out of production...

The Thermion XQ38 appears to be the same beast in a different skin, but **** that thing is huge!

Is it awkward at that size?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Best thing to do cuz is call Jason and make sure you got time to Jaw. He’s from deep east Texas and can talk longer then me

But he’ll get you on the right rig for budget/use, there’s a ton more options since the trails came out.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[TX03RUBI]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

It looks like the ones we’ve been using are Trail XQ38s, which appear to be out of production...

The Thermion XQ38 appears to be the same beast in a different skin, but **** that thing is huge!

Is it awkward at that size?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

They’re definitely a bit large, but not overly so for most purposes. This a smaller CZ 457 Rimfire, and while a little large on this rifle it’s more at home on centerfires.

[kkp005]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

It looks like the ones we’ve been using are Trail XQ38s, which appear to be out of production...

The Thermion XQ38 appears to be the same beast in a different skin, but **** that thing is huge!

Is it awkward at that size?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I’ve got a trail xq38 and thermion XG50.. I would not recommend the thermion for scanning then attaching to your gun to shoot..
To me the trails are much less cumbersome to use when scanning

[duckmanep]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

See, this is how I get in trouble.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

kids birthday or Christmas always flies though. especially after you show them some YouTube videos of it and get them fired up about it because they gonna tell momma that's what they want when she ask.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[Lip]

I had a Trail XQ38 (mounted) and a Core RXQ30V (used as a scanner/loaner). I sold both and hopefully I’m getting a Thermion 2 XQ38 and an AGM Rattler TS35. In the interim I bought a Wraith 2x with a Sniper Hog Light (66) and hopefully my Rattler will be in soon. I’ll have the Wraith mounted and scan with the Rattler and I think this will be a very workable solution until my Thermion comes in. Once it comes in, it will be mounted on an AR-15 and the Wraith will probably be sold.

[duckmanep]

Originally Posted by cehorn

I have been using a wraith since 2019 and they work great for hunting out of a stand. I have killed tons of pigs and a few other critters. My kids have also killed deer using the wraith (during the day) with full color video. It helps to go back and see where they were actually holding vs where they thought they were holding. The wraith isn't the greatest for scanning and finding animals but it is great for once you get on them or at a feeder. I just added a thermal monocular but haven't hunted with it yet. I will this weekend and I'll update but I think it will add a lot. I think the thermal will help a lot spotting game and I won't be swinging my gun while looking. The wraith's add quite a bit of weight to the gun though when you factor in the IR light. You can go this route for less than $2k which is what I have done. Some on here will tell you buy once cry once and talk down the wraith, etc. That may be true for some but I have been more than happy with what the Wraith provides and how I use it. It will only get better in my opinion with the monocular.

you're going to be kicking yourself for not getting a thermal monocular the day after you purchased the wraith. haha

another awesome use for a thermal monocular is animal recovery. not mentioned much, but an awesome tool to have when kids (or us) make a marginal shot and you are walking through the woods at night looking for dead critters.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[Dale Moser]

Originally Posted by duckmanep

kids birthday or Christmas always flies though. especially after you show them some YouTube videos of it and get them fired up about it because they gonna tell momma that's what they want when she ask.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

He’s already shot a few pigs with my buddy’s thermal.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[gingib]

Originally Posted by Lip

I had a Trail XQ38 (mounted) and a Core RXQ30V (used as a scanner/loaner). I sold both and hopefully I’m getting a Thermion 2 XQ38 and an AGM Rattler TS35. In the interim I bought a Wraith 2x with a Sniper Hog Light (66) and hopefully my Rattler will be in soon. I’ll have the Wraith mounted and scan with the Rattler and I think this will be a very workable solution until my Thermion comes in. Once it comes in, it will be mounted on an AR-15 and the Wraith will probably be sold.

Buy once cry once!

I always tell people buy what you want the first time. Like used trucks, you always lose money selling used thermals and upgrading unless getting them tax free and with a discount

[Lip]

Originally Posted by gingib

Buy once cry once!

I always tell people buy what you want the first time. Like used trucks, you always lose money selling used thermals and upgrading unless getting them tax free and with a discount

I was good with what I had but they were approaching 3 years old so I decided to sell and buy similar but newer optics.

[imyomama]

well, the AGM taipan 15 came in today, all i can say is wow! for the price , this thing is cool! gonna make a great spotter I think ... i'll try to post a video later when its finished charging ... and i guess i'm gonna find out if it works on a mac , if not , looks like i can also record on an ipad .. just have to play the transfer game on it ... we'll see..

[Anon]

Looks like people on other forums are starting to take a big dump all over the new iray rico...hmm

[Outdoor Legacy]

Originally Posted by Anon

Looks like people on other forums are starting to take a big dump all over the new iray rico...hmm

If by people you mean 2-3 people who have actually owned and used them, I'll buy that and if you mean people who've never looked through them but can't wait to bash them, I'll buy that too. What I don't buy is that very many people who own one and are using it are dumping on it.

There have been a ton of Rico 640's sold in the last 3 weeks, more than any high end thermal scope ever sold in that short of a time period. The reason is simply because iRay had the inventory sitting there waiting for the launch and other manufacturers don't have those kind of quantities available on Day 1. The closest thing would the Thermion XG50 launch because Pulsar had stockpiled them waiting for the release and supplied several of us with really good quantities of them.

I sold a very large amount of XG50's and Rico 640's both in a very short time period. Trust me....there will always be people who buy a scope and aren't happy, don't like it, have a small problem or have a big problem and you'll hear about it from a lot of them. What you won't hear is how great it is from the other 98% of users. That goes for many brands. I've seen nothing from the Rico launch or usage that is any reason for concern.

The scope that was posted on the YoutTube video as possibly having the lag or delay....it's been tested by iRay and has no issue at all. I sold that scope to a very good long time customer of mine but his test was flawed and he was mistaken, which is not the end of the world, we all make mistakes. I have video proof the scope is not defective (willing to share if people would like the proof) and that exact scope is about to mounted on my rifle and I will be using it as my own personal scope. It's had no updates and no changes made to it at all and I'm 100% confident in it.

The Rico is a heck of a scope. It is not (in my humble opinion) the best scope ever made or the best image quality available but I do believe it's a very good value and has an absolutely amazing image quality and feature set for it's $6,000 price tag.

The great thing is we have more options than ever in the high end thermal category, the Thermion XG50, Rico 640, N-Vision NOX's, Halo LR, Halo-X models and all the Trijicons.

Just my 2 cents having been using all these scopes in field, including the Rico for many months.

[Outdoor Legacy]

Originally Posted by Russ81

Best thing to do cuz is call Jason and make sure you got time to Jaw. He’s from deep east Texas and can talk longer then me

But he’ll get you on the right rig for budget/use, there’s a ton more options since the trails came out.

Who me? Talk a lot? Oh come on, you must be talking about someone else?

Jason

[Russ81]

Originally Posted by Outdoor Legacy

Who me? Talk a lot? Oh come on, you must be talking about someone else?



Jason

It’s not as alluring as “Shave and a haircut” but don’t make me bring up tiger striped cows


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[Anon]

Originally Posted by Outdoor Legacy

If by people you mean 2-3 people who have actually owned and used them, I'll buy that and if you mean people who've never looked through them but can't wait to bash them, I'll buy that too. What I don't buy is that very many people who own one and are using it are dumping on it.

There have been a ton of Rico 640's sold in the last 3 weeks, more than any high end thermal scope ever sold in that short of a time period. The reason is simply because iRay had the inventory sitting there waiting for the launch and other manufacturers don't have those kind of quantities available on Day 1. The closest thing would the Thermion XG50 launch because Pulsar had stockpiled them waiting for the release and supplied several of us with really good quantities of them.

I sold a very large amount of XG50's and Rico 640's both in a very short time period. Trust me....there will always be people who buy a scope and aren't happy, don't like it, have a small problem or have a big problem and you'll hear about it from a lot of them. What you won't hear is how great it is from the other 98% of users. That goes for many brands. I've seen nothing from the Rico launch or usage that is any reason for concern.

The scope that was posted on the YoutTube video as possibly having the lag or delay....it's been tested by iRay and has no issue at all. I sold that scope to a very good long time customer of mine but his test was flawed and he was mistaken, which is not the end of the world, we all make mistakes. I have video proof the scope is not defective (willing to share if people would like the proof) and that exact scope is about to mounted on my rifle and I will be using it as my own personal scope. It's had no updates and no changes made to it at all and I'm 100% confident in it.

The Rico is a heck of a scope. It is not (in my humble opinion) the best scope ever made or the best image quality available but I do believe it's a very good value and has an absolutely amazing image quality and feature set for it's $6,000 price tag.

The great thing is we have more options than ever in the high end thermal category, the Thermion XG50, Rico 640, N-Vision NOX's, Halo LR, Halo-X models and all the Trijicons.

Just my 2 cents having been using all these scopes in field, including the Rico for many months.

Yes, that’s exactly what I mean, thanks for elaborating....
And I think you do hear how good scopes are, from regular users, the cream will rise to the top!



Just replace Holosun with Iray lol

[Dale Moser]

The unit we've been using is a Pulsar Trail XQ38. What is the most comparable current unit to that one?

[Fordnandez]

Originally Posted by Outdoor Legacy

If by people you mean 2-3 people who have actually owned and used them, I'll buy that and if you mean people who've never looked through them but can't wait to bash them, I'll buy that too. What I don't buy is that very many people who own one and are using it are dumping on it.

There have been a ton of Rico 640's sold in the last 3 weeks, more than any high end thermal scope ever sold in that short of a time period. The reason is simply because iRay had the inventory sitting there waiting for the launch and other manufacturers don't have those kind of quantities available on Day 1. The closest thing would the Thermion XG50 launch because Pulsar had stockpiled them waiting for the release and supplied several of us with really good quantities of them.

I sold a very large amount of XG50's and Rico 640's both in a very short time period. Trust me....there will always be people who buy a scope and aren't happy, don't like it, have a small problem or have a big problem and you'll hear about it from a lot of them. What you won't hear is how great it is from the other 98% of users. That goes for many brands. I've seen nothing from the Rico launch or usage that is any reason for concern.

The scope that was posted on the YoutTube video as possibly having the lag or delay....it's been tested by iRay and has no issue at all. I sold that scope to a very good long time customer of mine but his test was flawed and he was mistaken, which is not the end of the world, we all make mistakes. I have video proof the scope is not defective (willing to share if people would like the proof) and that exact scope is about to mounted on my rifle and I will be using it as my own personal scope. It's had no updates and no changes made to it at all and I'm 100% confident in it.

The Rico is a heck of a scope. It is not (in my humble opinion) the best scope ever made or the best image quality available but I do believe it's a very good value and has an absolutely amazing image quality and feature set for it's $6,000 price tag.

The great thing is we have more options than ever in the high end thermal category, the Thermion XG50, Rico 640, N-Vision NOX's, Halo LR, Halo-X models and all the Trijicons.

Just my 2 cents having been using all these scopes in field, including the Rico for many months.

Very well said, especially the part about how you never hear from the vast majority of folks that dont have an issue but the few that do make it seem worse than it actually is. Sounds like these guys are not going to have a hard time selling any scopes anyhow lol.

Jason, I am going to put you on the spot. In your opinion which optic has the best image quality on an average night? I know average is different from place to place but a night where it isnt the worst or best conditions. I would assume it would still be one of the N Vision scopes but wanted to hear your opinion.

[imyomama]

quick backyard video of the Taipan TM15 .. not bad for an entry level spotter ... working on the helmet mount now ...

AGM Taipan TM15 thermal monocular - YouTube

[Fordnandez]

Originally Posted by imyomama

quick backyard video of the Taipan TM15 .. not bad for an entry level spotter ... working on the helmet mount now ... AGM Taipan TM15 thermal monocular - YouTube

Nothing wrong with that for $1,300.

[MUZZYSLINGR]

Originally Posted by TX03RUBI

They’re definitely a bit large, but not overly so for most purposes. This a smaller CZ 457 Rimfire, and while a little large on this rifle it’s more at home on centerfires.



Attachment 1042304

Ok, this rig gets points for just looking cool. What is the suppressor on it?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[dbelcher269]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

The unit we've been using is a Pulsar Trail XQ38. What is the most comparable current unit to that one?

Probably the Thermion XQ38 if your staying in the Pulsar line. Slightly higher base magnification but pretty similar specs otherwise. The Berring Optics Hogster 35 would be similar as well and cheaper, but I think it lacks the onboard video recorder. If you aren't scared of ATN then the THOR 4 2x8. Several others out there, but just the three off the top of my head. Something to think about, several models have wifi so if you and your son are sitting in the same blind you or he can see what the other is doing on your smartphone or tablet.

[Lip]

Originally Posted by Dale Moser

The unit we've been using is a Pulsar Trail XQ38. What is the most comparable current unit to that one?

Originally Posted by dbelcher269

Probably the Thermion XQ38 if your staying in the Pulsar line. Slightly higher base magnification but pretty similar specs otherwise. The Berring Optics Hogster 35 would be similar as well and cheaper, but I think it lacks the onboard video recorder. If you aren't scared of ATN then the THOR 4 2x8. Several others out there, but just the three off the top of my head. Something to think about, several models have wifi so if you and your son are sitting in the same blind you or he can see what the other is doing on your smartphone or tablet.

When you say most comparable, it depends on what you're talking about. If you're looking only at functionality, the Thermion XQ38 is the direct replacement. If you're looking at size and functionality, I'd say the AGM Rattler TS35-384 which is very similar in size and features as well as magnification. It's around $800 less than the Thermion and also includes an ADM quick attach mount. You would need to buy a QD mount for the Thermion at around $189 for an ADM. If money is an issue, go with the AGM Rattler TS25-384 which is also similar except with a 1.5 power base instead of 2.2 power of the TS35.

Pulsar Thermion XQ38 $3299.97 + QD mount
AGM Rattler TS35-384 $2495 (mount included)
AGM Rattler TS25-384 $1995 (mount included)

The Hogsters are another option but a bit more expensive than the Rattlers and do not include onboard recording.

If you're going with a Thermion, at this point I think I'd hold out for the Thermion 2 XQ38. Same price with some slight upgrades. My guess is if you get on a waiting list now for the Thermion, the "2" is probably what you would get anyway due to backorders.