Let’s Dive into Rearmed, Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x25mm – 1 out of 3 models
The Rearmed, Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x25mm – 1 out of 3 models represents a significant leap in thermal imaging technology for the modern marksman. Manufactured by Armasight, this thermal rifle scope boasts a 320×240 resolution, multiple reticle options, and a suite of advanced features designed to enhance situational awareness and target acquisition in any environment. It’s a serious piece of kit for anyone serious about hunting, tactical operations, or security.
My journey to this scope began with the increasing need for enhanced visibility during nighttime hog hunts. I needed a reliable thermal optic that could withstand harsh conditions and deliver consistent performance at varying ranges, surpassing the limitations of traditional night vision. The promise of improved accuracy and target identification in low-light scenarios drew me to the Armasight Contractor 320.
Unboxing the Rearmed, Armasight Contractor 320 revealed a robustly built optic with a reassuring heft. The alloy metal body felt solid and well-machined, exuding quality and durability. The turret controls were intuitively placed, and the overall design suggested a user-friendly interface.
I initially considered the Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 Pro and the Trijicon REAP-IR, both excellent thermal scopes. However, the Armasight Contractor 320 stood out due to its combination of a high-resolution thermal core, multiple reticle options, integrated rangefinder, and competitive price point. It seemed to offer the best balance of performance and features for my specific needs.
My first impression was one of excitement tempered with anticipation. While the features list was impressive, I was eager to see how the Rearmed, Armasight Contractor 320 would perform in real-world hunting scenarios. I was particularly interested in testing the image clarity, rangefinding capabilities, and ease of use in challenging environmental conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rearmed, Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x25mm – 1 out of 3 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place on a sprawling ranch in central Texas, known for its dense brush and abundant hog population. The Armasight Contractor 320 was mounted on my AR-10 rifle chambered in .308, a platform well-suited for hog hunting at medium to long ranges. The temperature was a cool 45 degrees Fahrenheit with a light drizzle, providing a realistic test of the scope’s performance in adverse weather.
The Contractor 320 immediately proved its worth by clearly displaying heat signatures of hogs bedded down in thick cover that was invisible to the naked eye. The image was crisp and detailed, allowing for easy identification of individual animals. Even in the drizzly conditions, the thermal sensor performed admirably, providing a clear image without significant degradation.
The user interface was remarkably intuitive. I quickly navigated through the menus using the turret controls, switching between different color palettes and reticle options with ease. The integrated stadiametric rangefinder was also surprisingly accurate, allowing me to quickly estimate the distance to targets and adjust my holdover accordingly. My first time using the Contractor 320 instilled confidence in its ability to greatly enhance my hunting capabilities.
There was a slight issue with the initial boresight. It required a few adjustments to align perfectly with my rifle’s zero.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Armasight Contractor 320 has proven to be a reliable and durable optic. The scope has endured multiple hunting trips in varying weather conditions, including rain, fog, and extreme heat. There have been no signs of degradation in image quality or performance.
The alloy metal body has held up remarkably well to the rigors of field use. There are no scratches or dents despite being bumped and jostled during long hikes through dense brush. The lens coatings have also proven to be effective in repelling water and dirt, maintaining a clear image even in challenging conditions.
Maintaining the Contractor 320 is relatively simple. The lens can be easily cleaned with a microfiber cloth, and the battery compartment is readily accessible for quick battery changes. Regular checks of the mounting hardware are recommended to ensure proper alignment and secure attachment to the rifle. This is a robust piece of kit that will give you years of use.
The Armasight Contractor 320 has far surpassed my expectations. It outperforms my previous night vision devices in terms of image clarity, range, and ease of use. It has proven to be a valuable tool for enhancing my hunting success and overall situational awareness.
Breaking Down the Features of Rearmed, Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x25mm – 1 out of 3 models
Specifications
The Rearmed, Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x25mm – 1 out of 3 models boasts impressive technical specifications. It features an ArmaCORE™ 320×240 12um Thermal Core Detector, providing a detailed and high-resolution thermal image. The scope offers a magnification range of 3-12x, allowing for both close-quarters target acquisition and long-range identification.
The Contractor 320 is equipped with multiple color palettes, allowing the user to customize the image display based on environmental conditions and personal preference. It offers 8+ Reticle Types, catering to different shooting styles and target scenarios. The inclusion of Image Detail Enhancement (IDE) further enhances image clarity and sharpness.
The scope features a 1/2MOA Boresight for precise zeroing. It also offers Video Recording & Image Capture capabilities, allowing users to document their hunts and share their experiences. It also has a USB Video Stream and Wi-Fi Video Stream, which allows video output on external devices.
The Contractor 320 is equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 Capabilities, enabling connectivity with iOS / Android devices through a dedicated application. A USB-C Interface is provided for external devices. Other features include an Integrated Stadiametric Rangefinder, Inclinometer & Levelometer, Graphic Compass, Picture in Picture, and Angle Cosine & Battery Status Indicator.
The Alloy Metal Body and Ergonomic Design contribute to the scope’s durability and ease of use. The Reticle ON/OFF Selection provides an additional layer of customization and control. These specifications translate to a highly capable and versatile thermal optic that can excel in a wide range of applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Armasight Contractor 320 excels in its primary function: providing a clear and detailed thermal image for enhanced target acquisition. The 320×240 resolution ensures that heat signatures are displayed with clarity, allowing for easy identification of animals and objects. The 3-12x magnification range provides versatility, enabling both close-quarters engagements and long-range identification.
The various color palettes allow the user to optimize the image display based on the environment. “White Hot” and “Black Hot” are ideal for general use, while other palettes like “Rainbow” and “Ironbow” can enhance contrast and highlight subtle temperature differences. The integrated stadiametric rangefinder is surprisingly accurate, allowing for quick and precise distance estimation.
One minor weakness is the lack of an external focus adjustment. Image clarity relies solely on the internal processing, which may not be ideal for all users or in every situation. The numerous features might feel overwhelming at first, but after some time using it you’ll be a thermal expert.
The Contractor 320 meets and exceeds my expectations for a thermal rifle scope in this price range. It provides a significant improvement in situational awareness and target acquisition compared to traditional night vision devices. It enhances your hunting success in challenging conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rearmed, Armasight Contractor 320 is constructed with a rugged alloy metal body that feels both durable and lightweight. The scope weighs in at a reasonable amount for a thermal optic, making it comfortable to carry on a rifle for extended periods. The turret controls are intuitively placed and easily accessible, even with gloved hands.
The ergonomic design of the Contractor 320 contributes to its ease of use. The eyepiece is comfortable and adjustable, allowing users to customize the fit for optimal viewing. The overall layout of the scope is well-thought-out and user-friendly. There is very little learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction of the Armasight Contractor 320 suggests that it is built to last. The alloy metal body and high-quality lens coatings are designed to withstand the rigors of field use. The scope is also water-resistant, providing protection against rain and moisture.
Maintaining the Contractor 320 is relatively simple. The lens can be cleaned with a microfiber cloth, and the battery compartment is easily accessible for quick battery changes. Regular checks of the mounting hardware are recommended. This optic is built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Armasight Contractor 320 comes with a hard carrying case, lens cleaning cloth, and a USB-C cable for video streaming and data transfer. It does not include additional accessories such as an external battery pack or mounting solutions, which may need to be purchased separately.
The Contractor 320 is compatible with standard Picatinny rail mounting systems, allowing it to be easily attached to a wide range of rifles and platforms. The Bluetooth connectivity allows for integration with mobile devices, providing additional customization options and data logging capabilities. The ability to select reticles is also great.
Pros and Cons of Rearmed, Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x25mm – 1 out of 3 models
Pros
- Excellent Thermal Image Quality: Provides clear and detailed images for enhanced target acquisition.
- Intuitive User Interface: Easy to navigate menus and adjust settings, even in the dark.
- Integrated Stadiametric Rangefinder: Accurately estimates distance to targets, improving shot placement.
- Durable and Rugged Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of field use.
- Versatile Feature Set: Offers a wide range of features for different hunting and tactical scenarios.
Cons
- Lack of external focus adjustment.
- Steep learning curve.
Who Should Buy Rearmed, Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x25mm – 1 out of 3 models?
Perfect for: Hunters seeking to improve their success in low-light conditions, tactical operators requiring enhanced situational awareness, and security professionals needing reliable thermal imaging capabilities. This is the perfect fit if you hunt at night and want the competitive edge.
Who should skip this product? Casual users who only require basic night vision capabilities. This is a professional optic that might be overkill for someone just starting out.
Must-have accessories or modifications? An external battery pack to extend operating time.
Conclusion on Rearmed, Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x25mm – 1 out of 3 models
The Rearmed, Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x25mm – 1 out of 3 models is a highly capable and versatile thermal rifle scope that delivers exceptional performance in a wide range of applications. The combination of a high-resolution thermal core, intuitive user interface, integrated rangefinder, and rugged construction makes it an excellent choice for hunters, tactical operators, and security professionals.
The price of $2299 is justified by the scope’s performance, features, and overall value proposition. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who requires reliable thermal imaging capabilities in challenging environments. I would not hesitate to recommend the Contractor 320 to anyone seeking a high-quality thermal rifle scope.
Take the leap and experience the game-changing power of thermal vision. You won’t regret it.