First Look: Rico Alpha Thermal Riflescope

by
posted on March 14, 2022
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Main2rico Alpha

iRayUSA, a Texas-based designer, has debuted its Rico Alpha. The Alpha is the culmination of decades of user feedback, research and development, all embedded in a hunting-dedicated thermal sight. From the initial concept, design and assembly, every step of the process was completed by hunters and engineers in Texas.

The Rico Alpha can be paired with any commonly used hunting firearm platform, but was specifically designed to accommodate the large majority of American night hunters who utilize the AR platform. The Alpha’s recessed 6-pin Autoloading Guarded Connector was specifically designed to prevent damage when using a slung weapon. Additionally, the magnetic properties of the charging port and design of the mating cables allow for an automatic connection when Alpha is installed on a rifle.

Adjusting the sight picture of the Alpha was made to be fast and simple, with its design based on feedback from the field. The ambidextrous Single Finger Focus lever allows for adjustments to be made in no light conditions, using only a single finger of a gloved hand. Once focus is correctly adjusted, the 50Hz 12 um sensor and Matrix III image processor provide the Alpha’s HD display with a high level of clarity.

As with all iRayUSA products, the Rico Alpha comes with a 5-year warranty, with a 1-week turnaround process. A full list of ALPHA specifications and an authorized dealer locator can be found on the iRayUSA website, irayusa.comMSRP: $6999

Latest

Photo 03 Ammo On Buffalo
Photo 03 Ammo On Buffalo

Behind the Bullet: .450/400 3” Nitro Express

Among the lot of Nitro Express cartridges—a term coined by James Purdey to compare the power of these cartridges to a locomotive and newly loaded with smokeless powder—the .450/400 3” N.E. represents one the best blends of hunting power and ease of shooting. Curious? Read on, as Phil Massaro goes in-depth on this classic, though esoteric, favorite.

TriStar Arms to Exhibit at 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits

TriStar Arms will exhibit at the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, taking place April 17–19, 2026, in Houston, TX. Attendees are invited to visit TriStar Arms at Booth #3103 to explore the newest firearm offerings and learn more about the brand's continued commitment to the shooting sports community.

New for 2026: Left-Handed Ruger American Gen. II

Ruger has introduced left-handed models of the Ruger American Rifle Generation II. The first of these models will be released in the Ranch configuration, with six chamberings available: 7.62x39mm, 450 Bushmaster, 400 Legend, 350 Legend, .300 Blackout and 5.56 NATO.

New for 2026: Swhacker #307 Mechanical 2-Blade Broadhead

Swhacker Broadheads has launched its #307 100-grain Mechanical 2-Blade Broadhead. This latest addition to Swhacker's lineup promises precision engineering with reliable deployment, coupled with accuracy and devastating field performance.

Keys to the Eastern Turkey Hunt

A turkey is a turkey regardless of subspecies, sure, but best hunting tactics often vary depending on geographical location due to the birds’ varying behavior. Translated, killing turkeys back East is different than killing them out West. Check out some Eastern-specific tips below, and stay tuned for a follow-up targeted at our Western readers.

Montana and Utah Celebrating 125th Anniversaries

Two 125th Anniversaries are occurring this year, the first being for the entire Montana FWP, and the second being a key piece of property in the history of the Utah DWR.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.