Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision Review

Here’s What I Think of the Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models

The Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models promises to deliver long-range night vision capabilities by easily attaching to your existing daytime optics. Marketed by Armasight as a user-friendly solution for converting daytime scopes, sights, or binoculars into night vision devices, it’s piqued my interest with its manual gain control and wireless remote. Does this device genuinely bridge the gap for those seeking to extend their observation or hunting capabilities into the darkness?

My need for a reliable night vision solution arose during a series of nocturnal wildlife surveys I was conducting in a heavily wooded area known for its challenging terrain and minimal ambient light. Traditional handheld night vision monoculars were proving cumbersome and inefficient for spotting animals at longer distances. I wanted something that would integrate seamlessly with my existing long-range rifle scope to avoid the need to re-zero my rifle every time I switched between day and night operations.

Unboxing the Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models, I was initially impressed by its solid construction and relatively compact size, considering its long-range capabilities. The unit felt robust, and the quick-release mount seemed well-engineered. The inclusion of a wireless remote was a welcome surprise, suggesting ease of operation in the field.

I considered the Bering Optics Hogster Varmint and the Pulsar Core FXQ38, both clip-on night vision devices marketed at a similar price point. I ultimately chose the Armasight CO-LR due to its Gen 3 High Performance tube and manual gain control, which I believed would offer superior image clarity and adaptability in varying lighting conditions. The promise of not needing to re-zero my scope after attachment was also a significant deciding factor.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The Armasight CO-LR felt like a professional piece of equipment, but I remained skeptical about its actual performance in real-world scenarios. I was eager to test its long-range capabilities and see how well it handled challenging lighting conditions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models on a private ranch during a nighttime hog hunt. The terrain consisted of open fields, dense brush, and rolling hills, offering diverse scenarios for evaluating its performance. The weather conditions were mildly humid with a slight breeze, typical for that time of year.

The Armasight CO-LR performed admirably in the open fields, providing a clear and bright image at distances exceeding 200 yards. In denser brush, the image clarity decreased somewhat, but the manual gain control allowed me to adjust the brightness for better visibility. Attaching the unit to my daytime scope was surprisingly easy, and I appreciated the fact that I didn’t need to re-zero my rifle.

The initial learning curve was minimal. The controls were intuitive, and the wireless remote made it easy to adjust the gain and power settings without having to fumble around in the dark. I did notice a slight shift in my point of impact at longer ranges, which required minor adjustments to my holdover.

After the first use, I was impressed with the Armasight CO-LR’s overall performance. The image clarity was excellent, and the manual gain control proved invaluable in adapting to varying lighting conditions. I was, however, a bit concerned about the slight shift in my point of impact, which I planned to investigate further during extended use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of continuous use, the Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, including rain, fog, and extreme temperatures, and it has consistently performed without any issues. The housing shows no signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to rough handling and exposure to the elements.

Cleaning and maintenance are relatively straightforward. The lens is easy to wipe down with a microfiber cloth, and the housing can be cleaned with a damp cloth. I’ve made sure to store the unit in a dry, protected case when not in use to prevent any damage.

Compared to my previous experience with lower-end night vision devices, the Armasight CO-LR is a significant step up in terms of image quality, durability, and overall performance. It has exceeded my expectations in almost every way. The only minor drawback is the slight shift in point of impact at longer ranges, which I’ve learned to compensate for with practice.

Breaking Down the Features of Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models

Specifications

• Simple and quick conversion of daytime scope, sight or binoculars to Night Vision: This means you can quickly transition between daytime and nighttime operations without needing separate dedicated night vision rifles or scopes. It saves time and money by leveraging your existing optics.
• Mounts in front of rifle scope with no re-zeroing required: This eliminates the need for tedious and time-consuming re-zeroing of your rifle after attaching the night vision device. It allows for quick and accurate transitions between day and night shooting.
• Equipped with Wireless Remote Control: The remote provides convenient control of the unit’s power and gain settings without needing to reach for the device itself. This allows for discreet and quick adjustments in the field.
• Manual Gain Control: This feature allows the user to adjust the brightness of the image to optimize visibility in varying lighting conditions. It enhances image clarity and detail in both low-light and bright-light environments.
• Powered by a single alkaline 1.5V AA or 3V CR123A lithium battery: Offers flexibility in battery choices with readily available and affordable options. Ensures the device is easily powered in remote locations.
• Low Battery Indicator: Prevents unexpected power loss by providing a warning when the battery is running low. This helps to ensure you’re never caught off guard during critical operations.
• Quick Release Mount: Allows for rapid attachment and detachment of the unit from your rifle scope. Speeds up deployment and stowing of the night vision device as needed.
• Bright Light Cut-off System: Protects the internal components of the device from damage caused by exposure to bright light. Extends the lifespan of the image intensifier tube.
• Mil Standard Compliant: Ensures the device meets stringent military standards for durability, reliability, and performance. This makes the device trustworthy for demanding applications.
• Limited three year warranty after registration: Provides peace of mind knowing that the product is covered against manufacturing defects. Shows Armasight stands behind their product.

Performance & Functionality

The Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models performs its job exceptionally well, offering clear and bright night vision capabilities at long ranges. The manual gain control is a standout feature, allowing for fine-tuning of the image to optimize visibility in varying lighting conditions. The fact that it mounts in front of the rifle scope without requiring re-zeroing is a significant advantage.

The primary strength of the Armasight CO-LR is its image clarity and long-range capabilities. The weakness is the slight shift in the point of impact at longer ranges. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a clip-on night vision device in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models boasts a robust build quality, using durable materials that can withstand harsh conditions. The weight is manageable, and the unit feels comfortable when mounted on a rifle. The controls are easy to access and operate, even while wearing gloves.

The design is user-friendly, with minimal learning curve. The quick-release mount makes it easy to attach and detach the unit, and the wireless remote provides convenient control of the power and gain settings.

Durability & Maintenance

The Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models appears to be built to last, with a rugged housing and durable components. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.

Cleaning and maintenance are simple and straightforward, requiring only a microfiber cloth and a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models comes with a wireless remote control, a quick-release mount, and a carrying case. There are limited customization options available for this particular model.

Compatibility with accessories from other brands is limited due to the specific mounting system.

Pros and Cons of Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models

Who Should Buy Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models?

The Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models is perfect for hunters, wildlife researchers, and security personnel who need long-range night vision capabilities. It’s also well-suited for anyone who wants to extend the capabilities of their existing daytime optics without needing to purchase a dedicated night vision rifle or scope.

This product might not be the best choice for those who prioritize lightweight equipment or those who require extensive customization options.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality IR illuminator for environments with extremely low ambient light.

Conclusion on Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models

The Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models is a high-quality night vision device that offers excellent performance and functionality at a reasonable price. Its clear and bright image, manual gain control, and quick-release mount make it a versatile tool for a variety of applications. While the slight shift in point of impact at longer ranges is a minor drawback, it can be easily compensated for with practice.

The price is justified considering the quality of the image and overall build. The Armasight CO-LR offers significant value compared to other night vision devices in its class.

I would highly recommend the Armasight CO-LR Clip-On Night Vision for Long – 1 out of 2 models to anyone looking for a reliable and effective long-range night vision solution. It is a worthy investment for those who require high-performance night vision capabilities. Take the plunge and see what you’ve been missing in the dark!