Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight Review

First Impressions of Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight

The Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight promises to bring thermal capabilities to existing day optics without the hassle of re-zeroing. Armasight, a well-regarded name in the night vision and thermal industry, aims to deliver a compact and lightweight solution with this clip-on sight. Boasting a fast refresh rate, image capture, and a quick detach mount, the Jockey 320 seems like a versatile tool for hunters, security professionals, and recreational shooters.

I’ve been searching for a thermal solution that wouldn’t require me to dedicate a specific rifle solely to thermal hunting. The ability to quickly transition between daytime and thermal observation is crucial for my hunting style, which often involves scouting during daylight and then switching to thermal at dusk. The promise of clip-on convenience and compatibility with my existing 1-6x optic is what drew me to the Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight.

Unboxing the Jockey 320 revealed a well-protected unit, along with a lens cloth, USB-C cable, product manual, quick detach mount, USB cable, two CR123A batteries, a soft case, and even a thermal zeroing target. The unit itself felt surprisingly solid, despite its lightweight construction, and the Ultem composite body gave it a robust feel. Initial handling suggested a quality product that was designed with practical field use in mind.

Compared to dedicated thermal scopes I’ve handled, like the Pulsar Trail 2 LRF XP50, the Jockey 320 felt significantly more streamlined. While dedicated scopes offer more magnification and advanced features, the Jockey 320’s clip-on design won me over because of its modularity. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, excited by the potential but aware that true performance would only be revealed through real-world testing.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight was at my local shooting range during a low-light evening session. I mounted it on my AR-15 with a 1-6x LPVO and immediately appreciated the simplicity of the quick detach mount. The thermal image appeared clear and crisp through my day optic.

The Jockey 320 handled the slightly damp and cool conditions well, providing a noticeable advantage in target acquisition compared to using the day optic alone. The 60Hz refresh rate resulted in smooth and fluid movement. I found the three-button control system intuitive to navigate, though it took a few minutes to familiarize myself with the menu options.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, primarily on nighttime hog hunts, the Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight has proven to be a reliable tool. The unit has held up well to the bumps and jostles of field use, with no noticeable wear or damage to the Ultem composite body. The quick detach mount remains secure and reliable, maintaining zero even after repeated removal and reattachment.

Cleaning the lens is straightforward with the included cloth, and the IP67 water resistance rating gives me confidence in inclement weather. Compared to carrying a separate thermal scanner, the Jockey 320’s clip-on functionality has significantly streamlined my hunting setup and increased my efficiency. The Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight has exceeded my initial expectations, offering a practical and effective thermal solution.

Breaking Down the Features of Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight

Specifications

The Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight boasts a 320×240 pixel sensor resolution paired with a 19mm objective lens, providing a solid thermal image. The fast 60Hz refresh rate is a standout feature, ensuring smooth tracking of moving targets. A 60Hz refresh rate is critical for minimizing lag and maintaining situational awareness.

Operating on two CR123A batteries, the Jockey 320 weighs in at just 0.79 lbs and measures 6.8 inches in length, maintaining a compact profile. The unit provides a detection range of 708 meters on a human-sized target with a Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference (NETD) of 40 mK. A low NETD is crucial for detecting subtle temperature differences, improving image clarity and target identification.

Performance & Functionality

The Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight performs admirably in its intended role as a clip-on thermal imager. Image clarity and target detection are both excellent, especially within 200-300 yards. The various color palettes offer versatility in different environments, allowing users to optimize the image for their specific needs.

The primary strength lies in its seamless integration with existing day optics, eliminating the need for a dedicated thermal scope. While the 1x magnification may limit its effectiveness at longer ranges, the digital zoom function provides some additional reach. There is a slight learning curve involved in zeroing the reticle for the digital zoom feature, but overall, the Jockey 320 meets and even exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight features a durable Ultem composite body that is both lightweight and rugged. The compact design and ergonomic controls make it comfortable and easy to use, even with gloves on. The quick detach mount is well-designed and allows for rapid attachment and removal.

The intuitive three-button control system simplifies navigation through the menu and settings. The overall build quality is impressive, instilling confidence in its long-term reliability.

Durability & Maintenance

The Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The IP67 water resistance rating ensures protection against rain, splashes, and dust. Regular cleaning of the lens with the included cloth is the only maintenance required.

The Ultem composite body is highly resistant to impacts and scratches. With proper care, the Jockey 320 should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight comes with a quick detach mount, USB-C cable, and a soft carrying case. While there are limited customization options, the unit is compatible with a wide range of day optics. The key to maximizing performance is ensuring proper alignment and eye relief with the chosen day optic.

The integrated video recording and image capture functions allow for easy documentation of hunts and observations. The included USB-C cable facilitates easy transfer of files to external devices.

Pros and Cons of Armasight Jockey 320 1x19mm Thermal Clip-on Sight