SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE Review

First Thoughts on the SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE

The SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE promises to be a game-changer in the world of hunting and tactical applications. Sightmark has taken their popular Wraith platform and infused it with thermal imaging technology, creating a compact and versatile optic that blends digital night vision with infrared capabilities. I was immediately intrigued by the potential of this scope, envisioning its use for hog hunting at night and predator control in challenging environments.

My need for a reliable thermal optic stemmed from frustrating experiences with traditional night vision during inclement weather and dense foliage. Traditional night vision struggles in these scenarios. The promise of clear thermal imaging, combined with the familiar Wraith interface, steered me toward this model over other options.

Unboxing the SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE revealed a compact and seemingly robust unit. The aluminum housing felt solid in my hands, and the overall design exuded quality. It was noticeably lighter than some of the larger thermal scopes I’ve handled.

Compared to other thermal scopes like the Pulsar Thermion or the ATN Thor, the Wraith Mini stands out for its compact size and more budget-friendly price point. While the others may offer higher resolution sensors or more advanced features, the Wraith Mini’s simplicity and accessibility appealed to me. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It appeared to strike a good balance between performance and practicality.

Real-World Testing: Putting SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE took place during a nighttime hog hunt on a friend’s ranch in central Texas. The weather was cool and damp, creating conditions where traditional night vision would struggle. I mounted it on my AR-15 chambered in .300 Blackout.

The Wraith Mini immediately impressed me with its ability to cut through the darkness and humidity. Heat signatures of the hogs were clearly visible, even at distances exceeding 200 yards. The learning curve was minimal, thanks to the intuitive menu system and familiar Wraith controls. One pleasant surprise was the clear image quality, even at higher digital zoom levels.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE has proven to be a reliable and durable optic. It has endured everything from humid summer nights to sub-freezing winter mornings. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear.

The aluminum housing has held up well against bumps and scratches. Cleaning the lens is simple, and the overall maintenance is minimal. Compared to my experiences with other digital optics, the Wraith Mini has exceeded my expectations. It offers a consistent and reliable performance in a variety of conditions.

Breaking Down the Features of SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE

Specifications

• Sensor resolution: 384×288 pixels. This provides a clear and detailed thermal image, allowing for easy target identification.
• Display resolution: 1024×768. The OLED display provides a crisp and vibrant picture, even in low-light conditions.
• Magnification: 2x optical, 1-8x digital zoom. The combination of optical and digital zoom offers versatility for both close-range and longer-distance engagements.
• Detection range: 1400 yards. This provides ample range for identifying targets at considerable distances.
• Battery life: 3.5 hours in video mode, 4.4 hours in preview mode. The Wraith Mini uses two CR123A batteries.
• Recording: Built-in video recorder with audio. This allows you to capture your hunts and share your experiences.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the scope’s performance in the field. The 384×288 sensor and 1024×768 display ensure a clear and detailed thermal image, while the magnification options provide flexibility for different hunting scenarios. The detection range and battery life are also critical factors for extended use in the field.

Performance & Functionality

The SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE performs admirably in its intended role. The thermal imaging is crisp and clear.

Its wide field of view makes target acquisition quick and easy. One minor weakness is that the digital zoom can introduce some pixelation at the highest levels. The overall performance meets my expectations, providing a reliable and effective thermal optic for hunting and tactical applications.

Design & Ergonomics

The Wraith Mini features a lightweight and compact design. The aluminum housing feels robust. The controls are intuitive and easy to access, even with gloved hands.

There is a minimal learning curve to the Wraith’s menu system. The user-friendly design enhances the overall shooting experience.

Durability & Maintenance

The SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE is built to last. The aluminum housing provides excellent protection against impacts and the elements. The optic is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional lens cleaning.

With proper care, the Wraith Mini should provide years of reliable service. Its rugged construction and simple maintenance make it a valuable tool for any serious hunter or shooter.

Accessories and Customization Options

The SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE comes with several useful accessories. This includes flip-up lens covers, a removable throw lever, a rubber eyecup, a USB cable, and two CR123A batteries.

The Wraith Mini mounts easily to any Picatinny rail. The scope is compatible with aftermarket IR illuminators to enhance the thermal image in certain conditions. The ability to customize the reticle color and style allows users to tailor the optic to their specific preferences.

Pros and Cons of SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE

Who Should Buy SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE?

The SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE is perfect for hunters who pursue hogs, predators, or other game animals at night. It’s also well-suited for law enforcement or security professionals who need a reliable thermal optic for surveillance or tactical operations. The Wraith Mini’s compact size and ease of use make it an excellent choice for anyone who values portability and simplicity.

This product may not be ideal for users who require the highest resolution thermal imaging or the longest battery life. Those individuals might want to consider higher-end thermal scopes with more advanced features, but at a significantly higher cost.

A must-have accessory for the Wraith Mini is a high-capacity memory card (up to 256GB) to take full advantage of the built-in video recording feature.

Conclusion on SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE

The SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE is a versatile and capable thermal optic that offers excellent value for the price. It provides crisp and clear thermal imaging in a compact and user-friendly package. Its affordable price point and robust feature set make it an attractive option for a wide range of users.

The price is justified by the performance and functionality it delivers. It’s a significant upgrade over traditional night vision.

I would highly recommend the SIGHTMARK WRAITH MINI 2-16×35 THERMAL SCOPE to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable thermal optic for hunting or tactical applications. If you’re ready to take your nighttime hunting to the next level, give the Wraith Mini a try. You won’t be disappointed!