The evolution of thermographic technology has transformed these systems from cumbersome, strictly military platforms into highly modular, commercially accessible systems.

The iRay USA and InfiRay Outdoor catalog features a wide spectrum of devices engineered for distinct operational requirements. Below is an overview of the primary architectures to help you find the right thermal clip-on for scope use, helmet mounting, or hybrid applications.

Dedicated Day-Optic Clip-On Systems

These systems are engineered explicitly to mount directly in front of a traditional daytime riflescope, projecting the thermal environment backward into the host scope's objective lens.

• iRay Mate MAH50: Serving as the flagship iRay Clip-on thermal, the MAH50 is designed for extreme long-distance target acquisition and seamless integration with high-magnification scopes. It features a 640x512 resolution, a massive 50mm Germanium objective lens, and an impressive 2,400-yard detection range.
• iRay Clip CH50 V2: This clip-on thermal scope features a similar 50mm objective lens but is marketed around proprietary "Clamp and Shoot" technology to minimize re-zeroing upon attachment. It uses "Ultra-clear mode" computational algorithms designed to improve imaging clarity in heavy fog and rain.

Multi-Role Hybrid Clip-On Architecture

For dynamic operations, multi-purpose systems offer unprecedented modularity. These devices transition seamlessly between handheld scanning monoculars, helmet-mounted navigation optics, standalone thermal weapon sights, and forward-mounted clip-ons.

• iRay Rico Micro RH25 V2: Arguably the most advanced tactical clip-on thermal, the V2 upgrade features a machined magnesium alloy housing that drops the weight to just 11.3 ounces, dramatically reducing neck strain. It boasts a rapid 60Hz frame rate for buttery-smooth tracking and an ultra-sensitive NETD <= 15 mK rating for unmatched environmental dominance in high-humidity conditions.
• iRay Rico Micro RL25 V2: A highly capable sibling to the RH25, the RL25 V2 utilizes a 384x288 resolution core while retaining the same magnesium housing, 60Hz frame rate, and USB-C architecture. The upgraded firmware enables the RL25 V2 to fully support thermal clip-on modes, making it an incredibly versatile alternative for budget-conscious agencies.

Night Vision Fusion (COTI)

While standard clip-on thermals mount in front of daytime glass optics, Clip-On Thermal Imagers (COTI) represent a highly specialized sub-category.

• InfiRay Jerry C5 & CE5: These ultra-compact devices mount directly to the objective lenses of analog Night Vision Devices (NVDs), such as standard PVS-14s. They overlay a 30.5-degree thermal projection directly onto your natural analog night vision view, a process known as "Thermal Fusion". 

Thermal Clip On Compatibility & Specifications Overview

When evaluating your iRay clip-on thermal, understanding specific electro-optical metrics is critical for maximizing field performance.

Clip-On Thermal Setup and Calibration

Achieving a perfect clip-on thermal setup requires strict adherence to alignment protocols, widely known as collimation.

• Mechanical Zero: If the daylight scope's reticle does not align with the exact center of the thermal image projected by the clip-on, the point of impact will shift drastically.
• Zeroing Profiles: Systems like the MAH50 require operators to input specific Zeroing Profiles (e.g., G1/G2 for 1x-5x scopes, G3/G4 for 6x-10x scopes). You must digitally shift the X and Y axes until the thermal image perfectly corresponds with the host optic's mechanical zero.
• Image Calibration (NUC): Uncooled Vanadium Oxide microbolometers generate internal heat, which can degrade image quality over time. iRay units feature Shutter Calibration and Background Calibration to mathematically reset the baseline reading, instantly clearing image noise and ensuring absolute fidelity before engagements.

iRay Clip-On Thermals: What you need to know

What is a thermal clip-on?

A thermal clip-on is a special camera that attaches to the front of your normal daytime scope. It lets you see heat in the dark. Because it clips onto the front, you get to keep using your normal scope's crosshairs and zoom. You do not have to take your day scope off your rifle.

What does NETD or thermal sensitivity mean?

NETD measures how well the camera can see very tiny changes in heat. For this number, lower is much better. If the number is very low, your thermal picture will remain clear even in bad weather, such as heavy rain or fog.

What does pixel pitch mean?

Pixel pitch is the distance between pixels on the camera's heat sensor. iRay uses a very small size called 12-micron. This small size helps make the whole device much lighter and smaller. It also helps you spot things from farther away.

Why does the screen freeze and make a clicking sound?

Thermal devices get warm on the inside while they run. This inner heat can make the picture look blurry or fuzzy over time. To fix this, the device does a quick reset called a calibration or NUC. It drops a tiny door inside, makes a quiet click, and instantly makes the picture clear again.

Do I need to sight-in or zero a clip-on?

Yes, you usually need to line it up, which is called collimation. If the thermal screen does not line up exactly with your day scope, you will miss your target. Use a menu setting to move the thermal screen up, down, left, or right until it aligns perfectly with the center of your scope.

Where can I purchase the iRay Clip-On Thermals?

You can buy these advanced thermal systems directly from Atomic Defense. They are a specialized store that offers a carefully curated selection of the best night vision and thermal optics for buyers.