Originally Posted By: WestTX 25/06I don’t have answers, but just wanted to say I am also trying to decide between the two for the upcoming coyote season to replace my Flir pts536.
Flir: The Flir image on the PTS536 wasn't very good. However, it was a very accurate scope. The biggest issue besides Flir abandoning the civilian market is the 4.5° FOV was really tight on it.
iRay: On the iRay, I would look really close on the height of the scope to make sure you can mount a radius on the side. It might easily, but something to check.
As for black hot, I believe white-hot is the stronger palette on all thermals using iRay sensors including Super Hogsters, Super Yoter as well as the Ricos. It isn't bad on any of them, I just don't feel it shows as much detail as white hot.
6-hours for a proprietary scope battery isn't that great. If I read it correctly, $169 for an additional pack. Ouch. If I am running off a pack, I want to make sure it will last me a full night in sub-zero temps. It doesn't look like it would, but TX and ND can be very different.
I was very leary of iRay when it was made in China, imported in and had no service. However, if iRayUSA will be servicing after warranty, that helps, but I do not know this but just assuming they will be.
Super Hogster: The Super Hogster is still the best "bang for your buck" in my opinion. It is $800 less expensive than the iRay 384. It is a proven scope, assembled and serviced by a US company. It has 3° bigger FOV than your PTS536 and a 1.3 ° bigger FOV than the iRay 384.
Super Yoter: If you have the money, the Super Yoter is going to be an awesome scope. You are correct, availability is going to be an issue. However, when stacked up against the Rico 640, it is $1,400 less expensive and comes with a LaRue mount. The only thing the Rico 640 really has that I can see that some would say is better is the battery. However, a $169 proprietary battery to me isn't better, when I can get replacement batteries for a TRB for instance for $20 or $30. As you mentioned, the Yoter will have the Range Marks feature which is new Bering technology.
For both the Super Hogster and Super Yoter, if you want to make sure you can get them far enough back, purchase an extended riser like the LaRue QD extended
riser so you don't have to worry about a Special Order, and it won't hurt the resale if you ever want to sell the scope.
I think all 4 would work. If you want to brainstorm some more on this, send me a PM, with your phone number and we can talk over each of thoughts in more-depth if you like.