Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models Review

Let’s Dive into Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models

The Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models enters the thermal optic market with a bold promise: high-end features at a competitive price point. This thermal weapon sight, manufactured by Armasight, boasts an impressive array of capabilities, from multiple color palettes and reticle options to integrated rangefinding and wireless connectivity. Does it live up to the hype?

My aging eyes and increasing reliance on after-dark hog hunts prompted me to seek a thermal optic upgrade. I needed something that offered clarity, range, and ease of use without requiring a second mortgage. The Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models seemed to tick those boxes.

Unboxing revealed a robust-looking alloy metal body, immediately conveying a sense of durability. The weight felt substantial but balanced, suggesting it wouldn’t overly burden my rifle. Initial handling confirmed intuitive turret controls, hinting at a user-friendly experience.

I considered the Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 Pro and the Bering Optics Hogster Stimulus 384, both excellent options. However, the Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models‘s combination of features and advertised ease of use tipped the scales in its favor. The promise of a 1/2 MOA boresight also intrigued me, suggesting minimal zeroing hassle.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The feature list was impressive, and the build quality seemed solid. I was eager to put it through its paces in the field and see if the Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models could deliver on its promises.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial field test took place on a West Texas ranch, notorious for its challenging terrain and abundant feral hog population. I mounted the Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models on my AR-10, a rifle known for its accuracy and reliability. The standard Picatinny mount made installation a breeze.

The first night was cool and damp, with a light drizzle. The thermal sight performed admirably, cutting through the mist and revealing heat signatures with impressive clarity. Even in less-than-ideal conditions, the Image Detail Enhancement feature provided a noticeable improvement in target acquisition. The intuitive turret controls made navigating the menus simple, even with gloved hands.

Initially, I experienced some difficulty with the stadiametric rangefinder, requiring a few attempts to accurately estimate distances. However, after some practice, I became more proficient. There were no malfunctions or unexpected issues during the first outing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models has proven to be a reliable and capable performer. The alloy metal body has held up well to the rigors of field use, showing no signs of wear and tear despite occasional bumps and scrapes. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a lens cloth and occasional wipe-down of the exterior.

Compared to my previous thermal monocular, the Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models offers a significant upgrade in image quality, range, and overall usability. The ability to record video and capture images directly from the sight is a major plus. The battery life, while advertised at 4 hours, often fell slightly short, averaging closer to 3.5 hours in real-world conditions at 20 degrees Celsius.

Breaking Down the Features of Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models

Specifications

The Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models boasts the following specifications:

• Sensor Resolution: 320×240
• Magnification: 6-24x
• Objective Lens: 50mm
• Reticle Types: 8+
• Battery Life: 4 hours (at 20°C)
• Boresight: 1/2 MOA
• Mount: Standard Picatinny
• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0
• Special Features: Integrated Stadiametric Rangefinder, Inclinometer, Levelometer, Graphic Compass, Angle Cosine Indicator.

These specifications translate directly into enhanced performance in the field. The 320×240 sensor resolution provides a clear and detailed thermal image, allowing for accurate target identification at extended ranges. The 6-24x magnification is a sweet spot for both close-quarters and long-range engagements, providing versatility for various hunting scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models excels in its primary function: detecting and identifying heat signatures. Its accuracy is commendable, allowing for precise shot placement even in low-light or no-light conditions. The multiple color palettes offer customization to suit different environments and user preferences.

One strength lies in its intuitive menu system, navigated easily using the turret controls. A slight weakness is the battery life, which could benefit from improvement. Despite this, the sight meets and generally exceeds expectations for a thermal optic in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The alloy metal body feels robust and well-constructed, inspiring confidence in its durability. The weight is balanced, minimizing fatigue during extended use. The controls are logically placed and easy to operate, contributing to a user-friendly experience.

While there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the stadiametric rangefinder, the overall design is intuitive and accessible. The ability to control the sight via an iOS/Android app enhances user convenience.

Durability & Maintenance

The Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models is built to last, constructed from high-quality materials that withstand the rigors of field use. Regular cleaning with a lens cloth is generally sufficient for maintenance. Due to the complexity of the internal components, repairs should be handled by Armasight or a qualified technician.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models comes with essential accessories, including 2 x CR123A batteries, a cleaning cloth, and a hard carrying case. The standard Picatinny mount allows for compatibility with a wide range of rifles and mounting solutions. While there are no readily available aftermarket grips or cosmetic modifications, the sight is compatible with various external battery packs and USB power sources to extend operating time. The ability to stream video via USB or Wi-Fi opens up opportunities for remote monitoring and recording.

Pros and Cons of Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models

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Who Should Buy Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models?

The Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models is perfect for hunters, particularly hog and predator hunters, seeking a reliable and affordable thermal optic. It is also well-suited for landowners and ranchers needing nighttime surveillance capabilities. Individuals seeking an advanced thermal sight for tactical applications will also benefit from its features.

This product might not be ideal for users demanding the absolute highest resolution and extended battery life available on the market, as more expensive options offer these enhancements. Novice shooters unfamiliar with thermal technology may find the initial learning curve slightly challenging.

A must-have accessory would be a high-capacity external USB battery pack to extend operating time in the field. A quality lens cleaning kit is also essential for maintaining optimal image clarity.

Conclusion on Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models

The Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models delivers impressive thermal performance and a rich feature set at a competitive price. While the battery life could be improved, its image quality, ease of use, and durability make it a compelling option for a wide range of users. At $3899.00, the price is justified by the capabilities offered.

I would personally recommend the Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models to anyone seeking a versatile and reliable thermal weapon sight without breaking the bank. If you’re looking to enhance your nighttime hunting or surveillance capabilities, give the Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x50mm Thermal Weapon – 1 out of 2 models a serious look – you won’t be disappointed.