Armasight Contractor 320 Lite 2-8x25mm Thermal Weapon Sight Review

First Impressions of Armasight Contractor 320 Lite 2-8x25mm Thermal Weapon Sight

The Armasight Contractor 320 Lite 2-8x25mm Thermal Weapon Sight promises to deliver professional-grade thermal imaging in a compact and durable package. This thermal sight, manufactured by Armasight, boasts a 320×240 resolution, 2-8x magnification, and a suite of advanced features, including multiple reticles, digital compass, and video recording. With a price tag of $2499.00, I was eager to see if it lives up to its claims and provides a real advantage in low-light or no-light scenarios.

I’ve always been fascinated by thermal optics and their potential for hunting, security, and search & rescue. I needed a thermal weapon sight that was lightweight, easy to use, and capable of providing a clear and reliable image at varying distances.

The Armasight Contractor 320 Lite arrived in a sturdy box, well-protected by foam inserts. My initial impression was positive; the sight felt solid and well-made, with a reassuring heft that suggested durability. The gray finish looked professional and the overall design appeared compact and ergonomic.

I considered other thermal sights from Pulsar and FLIR, but the Armasight Contractor 320 Lite seemed to offer a better balance of features, performance, and price. Pulsar units often require proprietary batteries, a considerable downside. FLIR’s dedicated weapon sights were either too expensive or lacked the magnification range I desired.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential of the Armasight Contractor 320 Lite, but also aware that thermal optics can be finicky and require careful setup and calibration.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Armasight Contractor 320 Lite 2-8x25mm Thermal Weapon Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Armasight Contractor 320 Lite at my local shooting range, both during daylight and twilight hours. I mounted it on my AR-15 platform using the included Picatinny mount. The mounting process was straightforward and secure.

The temperature was around 60 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight drizzle. The thermal image was surprisingly clear, even in daylight. At twilight, the sight truly shined, easily detecting heat signatures of targets at 100 and 200 yards.

The turret controls were relatively intuitive, although it took some time to get used to navigating the menus. The digital zoom was useful for identifying targets at longer distances. After about an hour of use, I noticed the battery indicator drop, suggesting the 4 hours runtime might be optimistic.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use in various conditions, the Armasight Contractor 320 Lite has proven to be a reliable and capable thermal weapon sight. I’ve taken it on several hog hunts in Texas. I also used it for scouting properties during the late evening.

Despite being subjected to recoil, bumps, and exposure to rain, the Armasight Contractor 320 Lite shows no signs of wear and tear. The IP67 water resistance has proven effective in wet conditions. The alloy metal body appears robust and scratch-resistant.

Cleaning the lens requires only a soft cloth, and the battery compartment is easily accessible. Compared to my previous experiences with budget thermal monoculars, the Armasight Contractor 320 Lite offers significantly superior image quality, range, and overall reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Armasight Contractor 320 Lite 2-8x25mm Thermal Weapon Sight

Specifications

• The Armasight Contractor 320 Lite features a 320×240 pixel sensor resolution. This dictates the level of detail visible in the thermal image.
• It offers 2-8x magnification allowing for target identification at varying distances. More magnification allows for easier identification, but sacrifices field of view.
• The 25mm objective lens diameter gathers thermal radiation, which affects the brightness and clarity of the image. A larger objective lens provides a brighter image, particularly in challenging conditions.
• The sight features a 60 Hz refresh rate, ensuring a smooth and real-time thermal image. Lower refresh rates can cause a choppy or laggy image.
• It boasts 8 reticle types, allowing users to choose the most suitable reticle for their specific needs. Different reticles are optimized for different target sizes and distances.
• The sight utilizes 1/2 MOA adjustment click value, providing precise adjustments for windage and elevation. Precise adjustments are crucial for accurate zeroing and long-range shooting.
• The 932m range of detection enables users to detect heat signatures at considerable distances. The actual range depends on environmental conditions and the size of the target.
• It is powered by CR123 batteries, offering a common and readily available power source. Battery life is a crucial factor for extended use in the field.
• The sight is IP67 water resistance level rated, ensuring protection against dust and water immersion. This provides peace of mind when operating in harsh environments.
• The weight is 780g, making it relatively lightweight for a thermal weapon sight. Lightweight is important for maintaining weapon balance and reducing fatigue.

Performance & Functionality

The Armasight Contractor 320 Lite excels in its primary function: detecting heat signatures in low-light or no-light conditions. The image is clear and detailed, allowing for positive target identification. The multiple color palettes provide flexibility in different environments.

The intuitive turret controls allow for easy adjustment of zoom, color palettes, and reticles. While not perfect, the menu system is relatively easy to learn. One minor weakness is the 4-hour runtime, which can be limiting for extended hunts.

The Armasight Contractor 320 Lite generally meets expectations, though I did expect slightly longer battery life. I can manage this limitation by keeping extra batteries in the field.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Armasight Contractor 320 Lite is excellent. The materials feel durable and the overall construction is solid. The weight is manageable and the sight balances well on my AR-15.

The turret controls are easy to reach and manipulate. The eyepiece is comfortable and the diopter adjustment allows for a clear image for users with different eyesight. The sight has a relatively steep learning curve, but the manual is comprehensive and helpful.

Durability & Maintenance

The Armasight Contractor 320 Lite appears to be built to last. The alloy metal body is resistant to scratches and impacts. The IP67 rating provides excellent protection against water and dust.

Maintenance is straightforward. The lens can be cleaned with a soft cloth, and the battery compartment is easily accessible. With proper care, the Armasight Contractor 320 Lite should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Armasight Contractor 320 Lite comes with a standard Picatinny mount, lens cloth, and a user manual. The Picatinny mount allows for easy attachment to a variety of firearms. The sight also features a USB-C interface for external devices, allowing for video recording and image capture.

The 8+ reticle types offer some customization. The sight is also compatible with aftermarket CR123 batteries. While the Armasight Contractor 320 Lite does not offer extensive customization options like some other weapon platforms, its core functionality is well-executed and adaptable to different user preferences.

Pros and Cons of Armasight Contractor 320 Lite 2-8x25mm Thermal Weapon Sight

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Armasight Contractor 320 Lite 2-8x25mm Thermal Weapon Sight?

The Armasight Contractor 320 Lite is perfect for hog hunters, predator hunters, and security professionals who require a reliable thermal weapon sight for nighttime operations. It is also well-suited for law enforcement or search and rescue teams.

Those who prioritize extremely long battery life or require advanced customization options may want to consider other models.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality set of rechargeable CR123 batteries and a charger to extend the runtime in the field.

Conclusion on Armasight Contractor 320 Lite 2-8x25mm Thermal Weapon Sight

The Armasight Contractor 320 Lite 2-8x25mm Thermal Weapon Sight is a capable and reliable thermal optic that delivers excellent performance in low-light and no-light conditions. The image quality is impressive, the controls are intuitive, and the build quality is robust.

While the battery life could be better, the overall value proposition is strong. For $2499.00, you get a professional-grade thermal weapon sight that will significantly enhance your capabilities in the field.

I would definitely recommend the Armasight Contractor 320 Lite to anyone looking for a high-quality thermal weapon sight that is both effective and durable. If you are serious about nighttime hunting or security, this is a worthwhile investment that will provide you with a significant advantage.