First Impressions of Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe
The Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe promises to be a significant upgrade for anyone using the BAE SkeetIRx or IR Defense IR Patrol thermal monoculars. The Wilcox name carries a reputation for rugged, reliable tactical gear, so my expectations were high right out of the gate. This small component aims to solve a common frustration: the flimsy factory shoe on thermal devices.
I’ve spent years cobbling together makeshift mounting solutions for thermal monoculars. The factory plastic shoes always felt like the weakest link in my setup. I needed a robust, reliable mounting solution that could withstand the rigors of nighttime hog hunts and extended backcountry reconnaissance.
Upon unboxing, the Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe immediately impressed me with its solid construction. The materials felt premium, and the overall design inspired confidence. Compared to the plastic shoe that comes standard with my SkeetIRx, this was a night-and-day difference. It was clear this was built to last. I looked at aftermarket options from other smaller machining shops, but I ultimately trust Wilcox’s quality control the most. This shoe felt reassuringly weighty and robust.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to finally have a thermal monocular mounting solution that felt like it could handle anything I threw at it. This upgrade promised to be a significant improvement in the usability and durability of my thermal equipment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe took place during a nighttime hog hunt in central Texas. The conditions were typical for that time of year: humid, dusty, and dark. I mounted my SkeetIRx, equipped with the Wilcox shoe, to my helmet mount.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The thermal monocular felt much more secure and stable than it ever had with the factory plastic shoe. There was no wobble or play, even when moving quickly through dense brush. The solid connection instilled confidence. After getting used to my janky setup, this was a welcome change.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe has proven to be exceptionally durable. It shows no signs of wear and tear despite being subjected to harsh conditions. This includes heavy rain, extreme temperatures, and the occasional accidental impact.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. The Wilcox shoe significantly outperforms the original plastic shoe, which would have likely cracked or broken by now. I have far more faith in this setup. It delivers more confidence when navigating unknown areas at night.
Breaking Down the Features of Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe
Specifications
The Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe is specifically designed to replace the factory shoe on BAE SkeetIRx and IR Defense IR Patrol thermal monoculars. It is available in black. The manufacturer is Wilcox. This shoe provides a much more robust and secure mounting point.
This matters because the factory plastic shoes are notoriously fragile and prone to failure. A secure mounting point is crucial for consistent performance and reliability in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe performs its job flawlessly. It provides a rock-solid connection between the thermal monocular and the mounting system. There’s no play, wobble, or slippage, ensuring a stable and reliable viewing platform. This is a significant improvement over the factory plastic shoe.
The only potential downside is that the shoe adds a slight amount of weight to the overall setup. However, the added durability and stability far outweigh this minor inconvenience. This accessory significantly exceeded my expectations, providing a level of confidence I previously lacked with my thermal equipment.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe is exceptional. The materials feel premium, and the construction is robust. The weight feels right, conveying the shoe’s robust build.
It is incredibly user-friendly. The installation process is straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and basic tools.
Durability & Maintenance
The Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe is built to last. Its durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of demanding field use. Maintenance is minimal; a quick cleaning after use is all that is required to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe doesn’t come with accessories. Its main purpose is to provide a secure mounting point for the thermal monocular. However, it is compatible with a wide range of helmet mounts and other mounting systems from Wilcox and other manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: Built to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use, providing long-lasting reliability.
- Rock-Solid Mounting: Eliminates wobble and play, ensuring a stable and consistent viewing platform.
- Easy Installation: Simple and straightforward installation process.
- Improved Confidence: Instills greater confidence in the stability and reliability of the thermal monocular.
- Direct Replacement: Drops right into the existing system without any modifications.
Cons
- Slight Weight Increase: Adds a small amount of weight to the overall setup, though the trade-off for durability is worth it.
- Price: A more expensive option than cheap replacements, but quality costs.
Who Should Buy Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe?
The Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe is perfect for hunters, law enforcement professionals, and serious outdoor enthusiasts who rely on BAE SkeetIRx or IR Defense IR Patrol thermal monoculars. Anyone who values durability, reliability, and a secure mounting solution will appreciate this upgrade. It makes a significant difference in the overall usability and performance of the thermal equipment.
Those who are only occasional users of thermal monoculars or who are on a very tight budget might be able to get by with the factory plastic shoe. However, they should be prepared for the possibility of failure. A must-have accessory to go along with this is a good helmet mount with a dovetail adapter.
Conclusion on Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe
The Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe is a worthwhile investment for anyone who uses a BAE SkeetIRx or IR Defense IR Patrol thermal monocular. It solves the problem of the fragile factory plastic shoe, providing a rock-solid mounting solution that inspires confidence in the field. The build quality is exceptional, and the ease of installation makes it a no-brainer upgrade.
The price is justified by the improved durability and reliability, making this a smart purchase for those who depend on their thermal equipment. I would highly recommend the Wilcox Trijicon SkeetIR Thermal Interface Shoe to anyone looking to enhance the performance and longevity of their thermal monocular setup. Upgrade today!