Tested: the InfiRay Rico RH50 thermal riflescope and the Niggeloh ruck-sling
Sporting Gun writers give their expert opinion on this month’s new kit
It’s fair to say that thermal imagery has transformed night, and some day shooting by using heat signature to generate an image. I instantly saw the advantage of a thermal spotter but was initially dubious of the progression to thermal riflescopes, my main concern being clear identification of your target. However, as technology has advanced, the development of better units has resulted in some exceptionally clear scopes, probably none more so than the Rico RH50 thermal riflescope from InfiRay.
Quality
InfiRay has increasingly sneaked into the night vision and thermal market with the quality of its products at competitive prices. The Rico scope is InfiRay’s answer to offering a thermal scope to compete with the top of the civilian market’s best sellers. This unit has been designed by shooters for shooters, not only in its incredibly sharp imaging but also in its functional simplicity and practicality.
It boasts long-lasting easily changeable rechargeable battery packs (two supplied), which are more than enough for even the longest shooting session. (I took it out for a full evening’s foxing and only used 25% of the first battery.) Features include variable magnification, picture-in-picture mode, multiple reticle colour and style options, Wi-Fi, video recording and photo capabilities, and a sturdy quick release picatinny rail mount.
Photos and videos are stored on the Rico’s internal memory. Disappointingly, there is no option to record audio, which I feel is a shame given what must surely be only a small additional cost of installing a microphone into the unit. Files are then transferred to a PC via the supplied cable or by Wi-Fi using the InfiRay outdoor app.
Functions
Video and photos are easily recorded with a simple touch of a button. The main menu is accessed with a press and hold of the menu button, where options are easily and intuitively selected and are adjustable. The zoom function is based on x3 magnification settings, which are increased through a continued press of the zoom button. A further press returns it to base magnification. The scope is easily focused by means of a positive dial mounted on its top, keeping all the controls within easy reach from a shooting position.
This unit really shines in its stunning picture quality, giving clear sharp-edged images to aid quarry identification and quick target acquisition thanks to its 640x512 12 micron sensor detector resolution, giving an amazing 2,600m detection range. There is also an optional laser range finding module that can be added and which will give an accurate range out to 1,000m.
Unsurprisingly this performance, all in a neat 840g package, comes at a price – £4,464.95, so it’s not for those on a tight budget. However, it should find favour with serious pest controllers who want nothing but the best.