Thermal monoculars offer a more compact profile and generally simpler ergonomics when compared to thermal binoculars. They also often command a lower price point, making them a cost-conscious alternative.
That said, you still want to make sure you’ll be getting solid performance, because in the world of thermal optics, affordability is a relative term.
That being the case, the ST3 Lite and ST6 Lite in the Stride series are solid RIX thermal optics. Here’s what they offer.
The ST3 Lite and ST6 Lite
The ST3 Lite is a remarkably affordable Rix thermal monocular. Coming in at just under $1,000, it is one of the most affordable thermal monoculars on the market.
Its counterpart commands a slightly higher price but is still affordable at under $2000.
Both of them offer powerful performance. Here are some high-level notes:
- They’re lightweight, at only .43 lbs (ST3) or .45 lbs (ST6)
- They boast compact footprints, making them easy to transport.
- Buttons are ergonomically and intuitively located on top of each unit.
- They offer wide fields of view, making them excellent for scouting.
- They’re both powered by quality sensors with 348×288 resolution (ST3) or 640×512 (ST6) at 12μm and a NETD rating of 20mK or better.
- They offer up to 6x magnification.
- A fast 50Hz frame rate makes them ideal for tracking moving targets or using while driving.
- An 852 yard (ST3) or 1423 yard (ST6) detection range.
- Powerful IP67 protection for use in all weather conditions.
- They’re powered by a rechargeable 18650-style battery.
- Wi-Fi compatibility.
- On-board video recording with 32gb of internal storage.
- A 4-hour battery life for prolonged use.
- A 1024×768 OLED display with 6 color palettes (white hot, black hot, red hot, color, and red and green monochrome).
- They’re equipped with ¼” and M5 threaded holes to streamline configuration, offering numerous mounting options.
- They offer the flexibility for helmet mounting.
Other General Observations
In addition to what’s been covered here, these RIX thermal monoculars:
- Offer great thermal image quality at a very low price.
- Bring affordability to the helmet-mounted optic scene.
- Are compatible with BM-01 mounts that further improve the mounting and positioning of the optic, enabling an operator to switch easily between the right and left eye.
Is a Thermal Monocular Best for You?
Though these thermal monoculars are very affordable and stand as suitable alternatives to RIX thermal scopes or to thermal binoculars, you might be wondering if a monocular can do what you need it to.
Consider the following:
- Thermal monoculars are smaller, lighter, and generally more affordable than thermal binoculars and if you hold all of the specifications the same, can do everything that binoculars can do.
- They are lightweight and compact, making them perfect for spotting, scanning, scouting, tracking, and general target identification.
- If you only need a thermal optic for scouting or tracking, there’s no need for a dedicated thermal scope.
- Thermal monoculars only engage one eye at once, helping to preserve your night vision in the other eye.
If any of these is appealing to you, then a monocular can be a very suitable alternative to other types of thermal optics, and an affordable one, too.
Want to Learn More About These Rix Thermal Scopes?
Have questions about the specifications of these monoculars or about other RIX thermal scopes? Visit Dark Night Outdoors or contact them directly at 309-781-8421.
They carry these and other thermal optics from RIX and other leading brands, can answer your questions, and would be more than happy to help you figure out which is best for you. They can even make a personal recommendation for something entirely different. Get in touch with them today.
