Trijicon REAP-IR Thermal Scope: In-Depth Insights from Product Manager Chris on On The Range Podcast at NRA Atlanta 2025
- Mark Kelley
- 6 hours ago
- 6 min read
In the heart of Atlanta, during the bustling NRA Annual Meeting in April 2025, the inaugural Voices of the Second Amendment event brought together passionate advocates, industry leaders, and firearms enthusiasts to celebrate and discuss the core principles of gun rights. Among the highlights was a captivating live session from On The Range Podcast, hosted by combat veterans Rick Hogg of War HOGG Tactical and Mark Kelley of Kelley Defense. This episode featured an in-depth conversation with Chris, Product Manager at Trijicon, Inc., diving into the world of advanced optics and thermal imaging technology. Titled "Chris: Product Manager at Trijicon, Inc - On The Range Podcast," the discussion centered on Trijicon's flagship REAP-IR thermal riflescope, its unparalleled durability, innovative features, and real-world applications for law enforcement, hunting, and tactical operations.
As a leading voice in the firearms community, On The Range Podcast delivers unfiltered insights on gear, training, and Second Amendment issues. This special episode, recorded live amid the energy of the NRA show floor, offered listeners a rare glimpse into how Trijicon pushes the boundaries of optical engineering. Whether you're a hog hunter scanning fields at night, a law enforcement officer gearing up for high-stakes missions, or a Second Amendment supporter interested in cutting-edge firearms accessories, this breakdown of the REAP-IR will equip you with the knowledge to appreciate why Trijicon remains a top choice in thermal sights.
The Voices of the Second Amendment: Setting the Stage at NRA Atlanta
The NRA Annual Meeting in Atlanta was more than just an exhibition of the latest guns and gear; it was a rallying point for defenders of the Second Amendment. The Voices of the Second Amendment initiative, launched live from the event, aimed to amplify diverse perspectives within the firearms industry. On The Range Podcast was invited by the NRA to participate, conducting on-floor interviews with key figures like CEOs from Brownells, Taurus, and Magpul, as well as experts from Gunsite Academy and Aimpoint.
Amid this lineup, the interview with Trijicon's Chris stood out for its technical depth and storytelling flair. Trijicon, founded in 1981, has built a reputation for rugged, reliable optics used by military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters worldwide. From the iconic ACOG sights trusted by U.S. forces to advanced electro-optics, Trijicon's products embody innovation and resilience. The REAP-IR series exemplifies this, blending thermal imaging with user-friendly design to dominate low-light scenarios. As Chris explained during the podcast, the REAP-IR isn't just a tool—it's engineered for "the worst day," surviving extreme conditions that would destroy lesser equipment.
Diving into the Trijicon REAP-IR Scope: Design Philosophy and Core Technology Insights
At the core of the conversation was the REAP-IR's design philosophy, which prioritizes durability, image clarity, and seamless integration into tactical setups. Chris, as Product Manager, shared how Trijicon's engineers focus on sensor technology and image processing to deliver crisp, reliable thermal views. The REAP-IR uses a high-resolution 640x480 12-micron sensor, providing exceptional detection ranges—up to 2,500 yards in optimal conditions for larger models like the 60mm variant. This sensor tech, combined with advanced digital enhancement, minimizes noise and maximizes contrast, allowing users to spot heat signatures in complete darkness, fog, or smoke.
One of the standout features discussed was the REAP-IR's multiple magnification options. Starting at 1x optical with up to 8x digital zoom, it offers versatility for close-quarters engagements or long-range scanning. Chris emphasized the importance of the unit's reticle choices—over five customizable options, including mil-dot, crosshair, and rangefinding patterns—tailored for precision shooting. "We wanted reticles that adapt to the user's needs, whether it's quick acquisition for hunting or measured holds for tactical applications," Chris noted, paraphrasing the podcast's key points.
Battery life was another hot topic. The REAP-IR runs on CR123 batteries, offering up to four hours of continuous use, with options for external power packs to extend runtime. Chris advised on best practices: "Always carry spares, and consider the environmental impact—cold weather can drain batteries faster, so plan accordingly." This practical advice resonates with podcast hosts Rick and Mark, who drew from their military experience to highlight how reliable power sources can make or break a mission.
The Legendary Durability Story: Surviving a River for Two Years
No discussion of the REAP-IR would be complete without the jaw-dropping anecdote Chris shared—a true testament to Trijicon's engineering prowess. As recounted in the episode, a REAP-IR unit was stolen during a burglary, along with several firearms. The thief dumped the gear into a river to cover his tracks. Fast-forward two years: the unit was recovered during a routine river cleanup. Astonishingly, after drying out, it powered on and functioned perfectly. "It had been submerged in water, mud, and debris for over 24 months, yet the seals held, the electronics were intact, and it zeroed right back in," Chris explained, underscoring Trijicon's rigorous testing.
This story isn't just hype; it's backed by Trijicon's MIL-STD-810 standards for shock, vibration, and environmental resistance. The REAP-IR's housing is machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, with O-ring seals and nitrogen purging to prevent fogging or moisture ingress. In independent reviews, users on forums like Reddit and AR15.com praise its tank-like build. One Reddit user in r/NightVision described it as "thermal master race," noting its superior image quality over competitors like iRay, despite minor gripes about cost. On AR15.com, hunters report dropping units without loss of zero, echoing Chris's emphasis on "duty-grade durability."
During the podcast, Rick Hogg probed deeper: "How do you test for that level of abuse?" Chris detailed shock testing equivalent to repeated drops from heights and immersion in water beyond standard specs. This resilience makes the REAP-IR ideal for law enforcement (LE) applications, where gear must endure vehicle mounts, pursuits, and harsh weather. For hog and predator hunters, it means confidence in the field, even after accidental submersion or rough handling.
Mounting, Zeroing, and Integration Tips from the Experts
A significant portion of the episode focused on practical use, with Chris offering step-by-step guidance on mounting and zeroing. The REAP-IR features a quick-detach mount compatible with Picatinny rails, ensuring easy attachment to AR-15s, bolt-actions, or even helmets for observation. "Mount it forward for better balance, and always confirm zero at your intended range," Chris advised. Zeroing involves a simple process: fire a group, adjust via digital controls, and verify with follow-up shots. The unit's edge detection and polarity modes (white-hot, black-hot) enhance target identification.
Integration with other gear was a key highlight. Chris discussed pairing the REAP-IR with night vision devices (NVDs) for hybrid setups, white phosphor lights (WMLs) like SureFire or Modlite, and suppressors to reduce muzzle flash interference. "Thermal and NV complement each other—use the REAP for detection, then switch to NV for PID (positive identification)," he said. Mark Kelley added from his defense background: "In tactical scenarios, this combo gives you an edge in urban environments or dense foliage."
For Second Amendment advocates, this tech underscores the importance of accessible, high-quality firearms accessories. As discussed on the podcast, tools like the REAP-IR empower responsible gun owners to hunt ethically, protect property from invasive species like feral hogs, and train effectively for self-defense.
Real-World Applications: From Hunting to Law Enforcement
Chris and the hosts explored the REAP-IR's versatility across user groups. For hog hunting, its long detection range and quick zoom make it perfect for spotting sounders in open fields. Reviews on AR15.com highlight its use on .223 platforms for rapid follow-ups. In law enforcement, the REAP-IR supports search-and-rescue, perimeter security, and suspect tracking. Glen Hoyer from the NRA Law Enforcement Division, featured in another Voices episode, would likely approve of its role in instructor certification and competitions.
Podcast listeners appreciated the candid talk on costs—REAP-IR models range from $5,000 for the 24mm to over $9,000 for the 60mm—but Chris justified it with lifetime value: "It's an investment in reliability that pays off in the field." Compared to budget thermals, users on Reddit note the REAP-IR's crisper image and better low-light performance, though some criticize the lack of built-in recording or WiFi (features available in rivals like Pulsar).
Why the REAP-IR Stands Out in the Thermal Optics Market
In a crowded market of thermal sights, the REAP-IR distinguishes itself with American-made quality (cores excepted in some debates) and Trijicon's warranty support. While competitors like iRay offer affordability, the REAP-IR's GASIR lens technology—resistant to thermal expansion—ensures consistent performance. As one AR15.com thread user put it, "It's the Nightforce of IR scopes," reliable for serious users.
The podcast wrapped with a call to action: Visit Trijicon.com for demos, and tune into On The Range Podcast for more gear reviews. Rick and Mark encouraged listeners to "be 1% better every day," aligning with Trijicon's ethos of continuous improvement.
Conclusion: Empowering the Second Amendment Community
This episode of On The Range Podcast at the Voices of the Second Amendment encapsulated why events like the NRA Annual Meeting matter—they foster education, innovation, and community. Chris's insights on the REAP-IR reveal a product that's more than optics; it's a lifeline in darkness. For firearms enthusiasts, thermal imaging like this enhances safety, effectiveness, and enjoyment of shooting sports.
If you're exploring thermal riflescopes, scope insights on the Trijicon REAP-IR deserves a spot on your shortlist. Head to ontherangepodcast.com for the full episode, and join the conversation on Second Amendment rights.
Stay vigilant, stay trained, and remember: the right gear can turn the tide on your worst day.
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Mark Kelley -Co Host On The Range Podcast and Owner Kelley Defense
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