Why We Love Handheld Thermal Optics

This video compares the FLIR Breach and the Jerry YM thermal imagers, highlighting their differences in resolution, image quality, and price point. The Jerry YM offers nearly double the resolution of the FLIR Breach, resulting in a crisper image with more detail, despite both devices being similarly sized and weighted. The FLIR Breach is noted as being made in the USA, while the Jerry YM is manufactured in China.

This video compares two Infiray thermal monocular options: the Jerry CE5 COTI clip-on device and the ML19 helmet-mounted unit. The COTI, designed to enhance existing night vision, offers a 'calmer' visual experience for extended use but is bulky and requires a separate night vision device. The ML19 provides a standalone thermal solution with a digital display, various palettes, electronic magnification, and a compass, but is less recoil-compatible and has a shorter battery life without extenders. The comparison focuses on usability, field of view, and situational awareness for tactical applications.

This video provides a practical overview of four thermal optic models: NOX18, RH25 v2, SkeetIRx, and REAP-IR, from the perspective of a firearms instructor with military experience. It focuses on optimal use cases for each unit, emphasizing the trade-offs between scanning (handheld, helmet-mounted) and weapon-mounted applications (dedicated optic, clip-on). The instructor highlights that while some units are hybrid, no single device excels at all functions, guiding viewers on how to prioritize based on their needs and budget.

This review covers the Armasight Sidekick 320 helmet-mounted thermal monocular, highlighting its effectiveness for navigation and its potential for integration with night vision devices. The speaker emphasizes Armasight's reputation for quality thermal optics and details the Sidekick 320's user-friendly interface, fast refresh rate, and image quality. While suitable for pistol shooting with collimated vision, its utility with rifles is limited without IR lasers.

This video details a specific night vision and thermal helmet setup, combining a PVS-14 with an iRay MH25 thermal monocular using a Pano Bridge. The presenter, from KeystoneCarry, explains the rationale behind this hybrid approach for enhanced situational awareness and target identification in low-light conditions. The setup prioritizes the ability to use night vision for navigation and laser engagement while leveraging thermal for immediate heat signature detection, offering a comprehensive solution for tactical applications.

This video from TA Targets details an unusual warranty claim involving a steel target with a large penetration hole. The manufacturer's representative, demonstrating high expertise in ballistics and steel properties, analyzes the damage. They conclude that the hole was likely caused by a .50 BMG Mk 211 Mod 0 (Raufoss) round, not the customer's claimed .300 Win Mag, despite the customer's assertion. TA Targets ultimately replaced the target as a gesture of customer support, highlighting their commitment to service even when the damage isn't a manufacturing defect.

This video demonstrates a rapid-fire drill on the TA Targets Phoenix Plate Rack using a PACT Club Timer III. The shooter, exhibiting high authority and expertise, successfully engages all six AR550 steel plates with a handgun. The drill emphasizes clean draw from concealment and high accuracy during rapid fire, showcasing proficient firearm handling.

This video demonstrates a head-to-head competition using the TA Targets Competition Dueling Tree. Two shooters utilize semi-automatic handguns to rapidly flip six reactive steel paddles, showcasing speed and accuracy in a dynamic drill. The drill emphasizes high-speed target transitions and proficient use of modern optics, as demonstrated by experienced shooters on an outdoor range.

This guide, from TA Targets, details the setup and deployment of 'backpack guns' as a supplement to a primary handgun. It emphasizes the 'gray man' philosophy for concealment, comparing draw times between handguns and rifles, and showcases specific builds like a 10.3-inch 5.56 AR pistol and a Veritas Tactical .300 Blackout SBR. The instruction highlights the importance of realistic range training with your chosen setup.