I’ve been using various thermal optics for the past decade, so I feel I can speak to the current state of the industry regarding thermal imaging optics. I don’t consider myself an expert, by any means, but I know a thing or two, because I’ve seen a thing or two…or three.
A decade ago, you’d need to take out a loan, cash in your 401K or sell an organ to afford a good thermal. Luckily, as thermal hunting grew more popular, the demand for optics rose, and the prices, slowly but surely, decreased. Today, you can buy a thermal for a fraction of the price you could have a decade ago, with better resolution, battery life, mounting options, and the ability to record. There’s been a race to the bottom with pricing, as companies try to get their products out in the field, but that doesn’t mean there’s been a compromise in quality.
People often ask me, “how can I get into thermal hunting, and not have to live off ramen noodles for the next 6 months?”
Well, before, I didn’t really have a good answer, but now, after trusting it, and using it for a while, as well as seeing other competitors’ scopes fall short, the easy answer is the Sightmark Wraith Mini Thermal.
The Wraith Mini boasts 5 color palettes, has the capability to record, has 384 x 288 resolution, mounts as easily on a bolt gun as it does an AR platform, and is easily half the size of most other thermals on the market. It’s super user friendly, can take an external charger as well as powered by readily available CR123 batteries, and did I mention…AFFORDABLE?
The price on the Wraith Mini has gone down significantly from its launch, and at the current price point (under $1500) and packed with all the above features, it’s a no brainer for someone that wants a rugged, capable optic but doesn’t want to break the bank. I’ve tried other thermals in this price tier, and it outclasses all of them. Not to mention, when you’re buying a Sightmark scope, you’re getting one of the best warranties in the industry as far as customer service goes. So for all of you newbies out there looking to get into the thermal game, the tried-and-true Wraith Mini is your answer for a quality, affordable, that will check all the boxes for you and perform every time you turn it on.
Black Dirt Diaries 