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

2W H2026 03 Hardware W3772 TAH 9510Lead
2W H2026 03 Hardware W3772 TAH 9510Lead

Hardware Review: Christensen Arms Evoke .375 H&H

A .375 H&H Magnum for less than $1,000 is a win for hunters on any continent, especially when it comes packed with features and has the sub-MOA accuracy potential of the American-made Evoke from Christensen Arms.

New for 2026: Avian-X Waterfowl Backpacks

Expanding its assortment to include soft goods in 2026, waterfowl brand Avian-X has announced an all-new lineup of packs specifically designed to keep waterfowl hunters organized, mobile and ready for anything.

Behind the Bullet: The .308 Norma Magnum

Norma’s ballistician Nils Kvale saw the wisdom of having the velocity and horsepower of the .300 H&H Magnum, but in a shorter, more affordable receiver, and used the H&H case to develop his .358 Norma Magnum in 1959 as well as the .308 Norma Magnum one year later. The .308 Norma Magnum closely resembles the wildcat .30-338 cartridge, though the shoulder of the former is located a bit more toward the base than that of the .308 Norma Magnum. Intrigued? Read on about this often unfairly overlooked hunting classic.

New for 2026: Browning Trail Cameras Defender Pro Scout Max HD-DV

The Defender Pro Scout Max HD-DV, from Browning Trail Cameras, promises direct video transmission and streamlined setup without adding complexity.

Is Wildcatting Right for You?

Dennis Bradley explores the potential benefits of going with a wildcat cartridge, using the .375 Raptor as a case study.

New for 2026: The Chiappa M1-22 Bushranger

Chiappa Firearms expands its rimfire lineup with the introduction of the Bushranger M1-22 Semi-Auto, a .22 LR rifle built to bridge familiar sporting ergonomics with modern accessory capability. The Bushranger is intended for recreational shooting, skill development and range use, but could also excel in the hands of any small game or varmint hunter.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.