Has anyone noticed that the newly announced FLIR RS
("Hunter-Grade") thermo-sight is rather large and
heavy...? Yes, I know... Compared to what?
Specifically, the specs say the RS64 with the 60mm lens
weighs 2.4 lb and is 8.5" long X 3.3" X 2.9".
For comparison, the spec sheet for the LS64 hand-held
viewer says: 0.75 lb and 6.8" long X 2.3" wide X 2.4" high.
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I understand the reasons for the length of the RS64
and that some additional weight might be necessary
over the LS64, but an additional 1.65 pounds heavier
and a full inch wider...? Some of the additional
length is due to the objective lens being deeply
recessed to protect it (which is a good thing) and
the rail mount adds some additional needed height.
Still, as neato-keeno as the thermal rifle scopes such
as the FLIR T70 are, the size and weight is a bit
discouraging for me.
I guess I will have to attach a bunch of helium-filled
balloons to the rifle to keep the weight down...!
Now that I have thought about the RS-64 objective lens
being protectively recessed, I am considering adding an
extra 1/2" of collar depth on the front of my LS64
to provide a little extra protection against scratching
or being damaged.
My only other thought about the LS64 is that FLIR should
have provided a better quality lens cap with a decent
tether. A $5K+ thermal viewer should come with something
better than a 39-cent lens cap.
Mike B