Leica Calonox Thermal Handheld and Scope
It seems that there has been a shift at Leica recently with a focus on products aimed at the US market. One of the latest products is the Lecia Calonox Thermal units. While the popularity of thermal hunting is expanding in the European market the American market is the larger market share. The new Lecia thermals have some unique features for all hunters.
Thermal Imaging Camera from Leica
Launching August of 2020, the Leica Calonox will be available in two versions. A handheld model fo thermal scanning called the Leica Calonox “View,” and a clip-on riflescope model called the Leica Calonox “Sight”. While not much information is available on these thermals, here is what we do know.
Both of the units feature a 42 mm lens and weigh in at 500 grams or 17.6 ounces. The battery is internal and rechargeable. Lecia says the battery life is “at least” 6 hours, but that can be extended with a power pack. The Calonox is 6.6 inches or 170mm long. The Calonox View has a 2.5x magnification, and the Calonox Sight has a 1x magnification.
It seems that the operation of the Lecia Calonox is relatively straight forward with three buttons on the top and a focus ring on the front and back (based on the images).
The Leica Calonox “View” offers a high recognition range, while the wide field of view is ideal for close-up work thanks to the large sensor (640×480 pixels) at 2.5x basic optical magnification.
Leica points out that the Calonox Sight can only be used in conjunction with a conventional riflescope, as a clip-on, and is therefore equipped with 1x magnification. Does that mean that you cannot use the Calonox Sight as a 1x handheld monocular? We will have to wait till August to find out.
The price for either unit is listed at $3,999 US or approx 4000 euros.
Key Features: Leica Calonox Thermal
– Operating time of at least 6 hours
– Magnification Leica Calonox “View”: 2.5x
– Magnification Leica Calonox “Sight”: 1x
– Objective diameter: 42mm
– Dimensions: approx. 170x60mm
– High-resolution sensor (640×480 pixels)
– OLED display with 1024×768 pixels
– Integrated rechargeable battery
Leica Calonox “Sight” – $3,999
Leica Calonox “View” – $3,999
Jeremy Mallette is co-founder of International Sportsman. An avid hunter and outdoorsman, he has spent more than a decade in the outdoor industry, from hiking and camping to silencers and hunting. His father taught him to shoot at age six, and he received his first firearm at age eight — a 1942 Colt Commando .38 special revolver. He enjoys yearly trips to Kansas for pheasant hunting, spending time with his children at the deer lease, and collecting unique firearms.