PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder Review

The PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder Made a Bold First Impression

Thermal optics have always intrigued me, but the price and often clunky interfaces have kept me at arm’s length. Then I saw the PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder. It promised a large display, integrated rangefinder, and ballistic calculator at a price point that, while still significant, felt within reach for serious hog hunting.

For years, I’d relied on traditional night vision and spotlights to manage the feral hog population tearing up our property, but it was always a cat-and-mouse game. I needed an optic that could spot hogs quickly, accurately range them, and allow for ethical shots in complete darkness. I was looking for a thermal riflescope that was also easy to use and had good features.

Unboxing the PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder was an experience. The sheer size of the 5-inch screen was immediately striking, as was the included handle, which doubled as a power bank. Compared to the smaller, more streamlined thermal scopes I’ve seen friends use (ATN Thor LT, Pulsar Thermion), the Sphinx felt almost bulky, but also more substantial.

I considered the ATN Thor LT and Pulsar Thermion but ultimately chose the PARD Sphinx for its larger display and the included handle/power bank, I felt these were very useful features for the price point. The integrated laser rangefinder and ballistic calculator were also very important factors in my decision.

Initially, I was a bit apprehensive about the size and weight. However, the promise of the large display and extended battery life outweighed my concerns. The initial impression was one of cautious optimism mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation.

Real-World Testing: Putting PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder was a late-night hog hunt on my property. I mounted it on my AR-10, zeroed it during daylight using a thermal calibration target, and waited for darkness. The humidity was high, and a light drizzle started just as the sun dipped below the horizon.

Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, the Sphinx performed admirably. The large display made spotting hogs in the adjacent field easy, even through the drizzle. The controls were intuitive, and I quickly got used to cycling through the different thermal palettes. The 1200-yard laser rangefinder locked onto targets accurately, and the ballistic calculator helped me adjust my holdover for a clean kill at 250 yards.

There was a slight learning curve with the ballistic calculator, but after inputting my cartridge data and creating a profile, it worked flawlessly. One initial surprise was the sensitivity of the thermal sensor; even small animals like rabbits registered clearly at considerable distances.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder has proven to be a reliable and effective tool for hog hunting. It has been exposed to rain, mud, and temperature fluctuations, and it has performed very well in these conditions. The IP67 waterproof rating gives me peace of mind in inclement weather.

There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the aluminum housing. I’ve found that keeping the lens clean is important for optimal image quality, especially in dusty conditions, and the scope cleans easily. The 6-hour battery life with the 18650 is acceptable, and the handle power bank ensures I never run out of power during a hunt.

Compared to using traditional night vision, the PARD Sphinx is a game-changer. I can now spot, range, and engage targets much faster and more accurately. The thermal clarity provides a much more detailed image than traditional night vision, and the ballistic calculator eliminates guesswork when making longer shots.

Breaking Down the Features of PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder

Specifications

• 384 x 288 Thermal Sensor: This sensor provides a clear and detailed thermal image, allowing for easy identification of targets. The higher resolution provides more detail.
• 5″ 1280 x 720 Monitor: The large display is exceptional, providing a comfortable viewing experience and reducing eye strain. It’s far superior to the smaller screens found on many other thermal scopes.
• Use Weapon-Mounted or Handheld: The included handle and mount provide versatile usage options, making it suitable for both weapon-mounted and handheld observation. This is a great feature to have.
• 1531-Yard Imager Range (Human Size): The detection range is impressive, allowing for early detection of targets at considerable distances. This provides ample time to assess the situation and make informed decisions.
• 1200-Yard Rangefinder Range: The integrated laser rangefinder provides accurate distance measurements, crucial for long-range shooting. Accurate ranging is essential for ethical shots.
• Ballistic Calculator with 5 Profiles: The ballistic calculator simplifies long-range shooting by providing accurate holdover information. The ability to store multiple profiles is useful for different rifles and ammunition.
• 3.5x Optical Magnification, 2-8x Digital: The optical and digital magnification provides a good balance between wide field of view and detailed target identification. This gives the user flexibility in different hunting scenarios.
• Captures Video and Photos: The ability to record video and photos is a useful feature for documenting hunts and sharing experiences. It’s great for reviewing hunts later.
• Uses 18650 Battery, 6 Hours Runtime: The 18650 battery provides a decent runtime, and the handle power bank extends the operational time significantly. Having backup power is always a plus.
• Handle is Power Bank with 21700 Battery: The handle power bank ensures extended battery life, allowing for longer hunts without worrying about running out of power. It’s an extremely useful addition.

Performance & Functionality

The PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder excels at its primary job: detecting and ranging heat signatures in low-light conditions. The clarity of the thermal image is excellent, and the laser rangefinder is accurate and reliable. The ballistic calculator works well, providing accurate holdover information for different ranges.

The primary strength is its ability to quickly and accurately identify targets at long ranges. A potential weakness is the size and weight, which might be a concern for some users. Overall, it exceeds my expectations for a thermal riflescope in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality feels solid and durable, thanks to the aluminum housing. The weight is noticeable, but the included handle makes it manageable when used handheld. The buttons are easily accessible, even with gloves.

There is a slight learning curve to navigate the menu system and input ballistic data, but the user interface is relatively intuitive. After a short period of familiarization, it becomes easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder appears to be built to last. The IP67 waterproof rating provides peace of mind in wet conditions. Regular cleaning of the lens is essential for optimal performance, but the maintenance is minimal.

I expect the Sphinx to provide years of reliable service with proper care. The robust construction and waterproof design suggest it can withstand the rigors of hunting in various environments.

Accessories and Customization Options

The PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder comes with a mount, the handle/power bank, a charging cable, and a lens cleaning cloth. There are no readily apparent customization options, such as alternative grips or lens filters.

It’s compatible with standard picatinny rails, allowing for use on a wide range of firearms. The ability to use external power banks via the USB port provides some flexibility.

Pros and Cons of PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder

Who Should Buy PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder?

Perfect for: Hog hunters, predator hunters, and anyone needing to identify heat signatures at long ranges in low-light conditions. It’s a valuable tool for farmers and ranchers dealing with nocturnal pests.

Who should skip this product? Those looking for a lightweight, compact thermal optic for casual use. The size and weight may be prohibitive for hikers or those prioritizing portability.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality picatinny rail mount is essential for secure attachment to a firearm. Extra 18650 batteries are also recommended for extended use, even with the power bank.

Conclusion on PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder

The PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder is a powerful and versatile thermal optic that offers exceptional value for its price. The large display, integrated laser rangefinder, and ballistic calculator make it a game-changer for nighttime hunting.

The price is justified by the performance, features, and overall build quality. It’s a significant investment, but one that pays off in improved accuracy and efficiency.

I would definitely recommend the PARD Sphinx to anyone serious about thermal hunting or needing to identify heat signatures at long ranges. If you are interested in serious hog hunting, this might be a great option for you. Consider the PARD Sphinx 35mm 384 x 288 Thermal Riflescope with Laser Rangefinder!