Chinese manufacturer Hikvision is a heavy-weight in surveillance technologies but is a relative newcomer to the world of sport optics. HIKMICRO LYNX Pro LH19 is a new handheld thermal monocular by them.
Notice the name change here. After dipping their toes in the world of sport optics, Hikvision decided to make a full dive in 2020. Newly-registered brand Hikmicro is the next logical step in separating Hikvision’s line of affordable sports optics from the core production of top-notch surveillance systems for civilian and military use.
Source: Hikmicro
The first thing to notice is that the model was clearly designed as an older sibling to the LYNX Pro LH15 model. The base frame remains completely the same – a sleek rubber-armored tube with 4 control buttons on top.
310 grams (0.68lb) make it a perfect companion even on challenging terrain where every bit of equipment is debated over. There’s also the soft rubber eyepiece that fits the eye socket nicely. But as you’ll see in the following paragraphs, it’s the small improvements that make the difference.
Source: Hikmicro
Best of Both Worlds
Let’s start with the most obvious one. As the name suggests, the LYNX Pro LH19 has a bigger, 19-millimeter objective lens. The narrow 15 millimeters of view-through seemed to be the main gripe of LH15 users, while the model’s compact size is the upside of the same argument. Hikmicro joined the best of both worlds here – the pocket-sized chassis of LH15 and the optical performance of LH35.
The second thing to note is that the focus of LYNX Pro LH19 has an adjustable focus. That makes it perfect for spotting foxes and other pack animals that need to be observed at longer distances. Compare that to the fixed focus (set at 100m) of the previous models in the LYNX series. This thermal spotter has a fast-focusing ring near the eyepiece that allows for small adjustments on the go, keeping the image sharp and clean.
The detection range of this model is about 900m. Its main target audience are fox hunters but the scope is also suitable for the canvassing of the terrain, search and rescue missions, hiking, and security sector.
Source: Hikmicro
The View-Through
Hikmicro LYNX Pro LH19 is built around a 12 μm high-sensitivity sensor. Its maximal resolution is 384×288 pixels. This is a standard fare for thermal scopes in this price range.
Source: Hikmicro
Users will be more impressed with the 1280×960 LCOS display and flat-field correction (FFC). Smooth movement is ensured thanks to 50Hz of frame refresh rate, so your eyes won’t tire easily. Image quality remains decent even with the digital enhancement that goes from 2x and 4x to 8x. There are 4 color modes to pick from: Black Hot, White Hot, Red Hot, and Fusion.
Source: Hikmicro
Multimedia
As far as other frills are concerned: LYNX Pro LH19 lets you take snapshots and record clips. Each unit comes with 8Gb of internal storage – not exactly massive space but plenty for an average hunter. Recording function, live-streaming, Wi-Fi hotspot, and other extra features can be accessed via the T-Vision app installed on a smartphone or tablet.
Source: Hikmicro
LYNX Pro LH19 is powered with an integrated lithium battery that lasts about 6-7 hours of continuous use. Energy can be conserved by switching to a Standby Mode and we really appreciate the handy shortcut button on top of the model.
The manufacturer offers a 2-year warranty on this device. The price of Hikmicro LYNX PRO-LH19 Thermal Imaging Monocular is €1.589,00. All in all, this is a solid option for every hunter that is looking for a cost-effective thermal spotter that offers good value for the money spent.
