First Impressions of Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip
The Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip has arrived, promising to transform any standard optic into a thermal imaging powerhouse. From Burris, a company known for its quality optics, this clip-on device boasts the potential to enhance situational awareness and hunting capabilities, particularly in low-light or no-light conditions. Does it live up to the hype?
As a seasoned outdoorsman, I’ve always been searching for an edge, something to level the playing field when darkness falls or the fog rolls in. Traditional night vision has its place, but thermal imaging offers a unique advantage: detecting heat signatures rather than relying on ambient light. My hope is that the Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip bridges the gap between daytime optics and the thermal world, offering a versatile and affordable solution.
Unboxing the Smartclip, the first thing that struck me was the robust Aluminum construction and matte black finish. It feels solid, not flimsy, which is reassuring for a device that’s going to be mounted on a rifle. Compared to dedicated thermal scopes, which can cost thousands more, the Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip is significantly more budget-friendly.
Other thermal clip-ons I considered were from Pulsar and ATN, but the Burris offering caught my eye due to Burris’s reputation and the seemingly straightforward mounting system. My first impression is cautiously optimistic. Now, it’s time to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip to the Test
First Use Experience
The first test took place on a late-night hog hunt in central Texas. Mounting the Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip to my existing day scope was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the clip-on design. The temperature was mild, but there was a heavy fog rolling in, limiting visibility to about 50 yards.
The thermal image was clear enough to detect heat signatures through the fog, easily differentiating between hogs and other wildlife. It took a few minutes to adjust the focus for optimal clarity, but once dialed in, the difference was night and day, literally. The Smartclip revealed a sounder of hogs rooting in a field, completely invisible to the naked eye.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip on various hunts and scouting trips, I can confidently say it’s a game-changer. The Aluminum housing has held up well to bumps and scrapes, showing no signs of significant wear. It has faced everything from drizzling rain to freezing temperatures.
The device has maintained its zero consistently, requiring minimal adjustment after repeated mounting and dismounting. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a lens cloth is all it takes to remove dust and debris. Compared to my previous experiences with night vision devices, the Smartclip offers a simpler, more effective solution for detecting targets in challenging conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip
Specifications
The Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip is designed to quickly convert a daytime optic into a thermal imaging device. Its key specifications include:
- Manufacturer: Burris
- Color: Black
- Finish: Matte
- Fabric/Material: Aluminum
These specifications highlight the ruggedness and discreet design of the Smartclip. The Aluminum construction ensures durability, while the matte black finish minimizes light reflection, crucial for maintaining stealth in tactical or hunting scenarios. The fact that it’s a clip-on device gives it tremendous versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip performs admirably in its intended role, providing a clear thermal image that significantly enhances target detection in low-light conditions. Its effectiveness is particularly noticeable in situations where traditional optics are rendered useless, such as dense fog or complete darkness. The only real weakness is that its performance will only be as good as the optic you’re clipping it to.
While not as crystal-clear as high-end dedicated thermal scopes, the image quality is more than sufficient for identifying animals at reasonable distances. It definitely meets expectations for a thermal clip-on in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Aluminum build and matte finish contribute to a solid feel and a non-reflective profile. The Smartclip’s weight is noticeable but manageable, adding to the overall sturdiness of the setup. It maintains a relatively balanced feel when mounted on most rifles.
The design is user-friendly, with intuitive controls for adjusting brightness and focus. The learning curve is minimal, allowing for quick adaptation in the field.
Durability & Maintenance
The Aluminum housing suggests a long lifespan, withstanding typical field abuse without showing signs of structural weakness. Regular cleaning is straightforward.
Disassembly for deep cleaning or repair may require professional assistance, but routine maintenance involves only wiping down the lens and exterior surfaces. With proper care, the Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip is designed to be compatible with a wide range of daytime optics, enhancing its versatility. No other specific accessories come with the product.
Adapters are available to ensure a secure fit with various objective lens diameters. This compatibility makes it a flexible solution for hunters and tactical users who already have existing optical setups.
Pros and Cons of Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip
Pros
- Affordable Thermal Imaging: Offers a cost-effective entry point into the world of thermal optics, significantly cheaper than dedicated thermal scopes.
- Versatile Clip-On Design: Easily attaches to existing daytime optics, allowing for quick conversion to thermal imaging without the need for dedicated equipment.
- Durable Aluminum Construction: The Aluminum housing ensures the device can withstand harsh field conditions and rough handling.
- Enhanced Situational Awareness: Provides clear thermal imaging in low-light and no-light conditions, improving target detection and overall awareness.
- Simple and Intuitive Operation: User-friendly controls and minimal learning curve make it easy to use, even for those new to thermal imaging.
Cons
- Image Quality Not Top-Tier: While adequate, the thermal image quality isn’t as sharp or detailed as high-end dedicated thermal scopes.
- Dependence on Existing Optics: The performance is limited by the quality of the daytime optic it’s paired with.
Who Should Buy Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip?
The Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip is perfect for hunters looking to extend their hunts into the night or improve target detection in challenging conditions. It’s also suitable for farmers or ranchers needing to monitor livestock or detect predators. It’s great for any user that needs the advantages of thermal imaging without breaking the bank.
Those who should skip this product are users demanding the absolute highest image quality or those unwilling to invest in a quality daytime optic to pair it with. You’ll want to pair it with a decent rifle and some high-quality ammo.
Conclusion on Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip
The Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip offers a compelling value proposition: affordable thermal imaging without sacrificing usability or durability. Its clip-on design and robust Aluminum construction make it a versatile tool for hunters and tactical users alike. For the price of $169.99, it is hard to find a better thermal clip-on option.
While it may not match the performance of top-tier thermal scopes, it delivers impressive results for its price point. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to venture into the world of thermal imaging without breaking the bank. Upgrade your visibility and extend your hunting capabilities with the Burris Thermal Optics 59mm Smartclip.