Introduction
During our visit to the IWA 2023 event, we stopped by Pard‘s booth to take a closer look at their new release, the Pard FT-34 Multi-Function Thermal Scope. As we examined the product, it became immediately apparent that the scope features a compact design but packs a quite impressive technology.
And better yet, PARD FT34 is designed in a way that allows it to be used as a handheld monocular, a riflescope, or a clip-on to a day-time optic.
Main Features
The Pard FT-34 Multi-Function Thermal Scope is equipped with a range of features. Users have the option to select a model with an integrated Laser Range Finder (LRF), which has a range of up to 1000 meters, or a model without the LRF. The scope also incorporates a unique bayonet system for clip-on attaching.
The thermal sensor in the FT-34 has a resolution of 384×288 pixels and comes with a 35mm lens. It operates with a 12 μm pixel pitch and a Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference (NETD) of less than 25 mK, providing detailed images under various conditions.
We expect that Pard FT-34 Multi-Function Thermal Scope will be available in 6 different reticle styles with 4 different reticle colors.
The FT-34 also features an interchangeable battery, ensuring users can swap batteries when needed and maintain consistent performance. Images are displayed on a 1440×1080 OLED display, offering clear visuals for the user.
Connectivity is another important feature of the Pard FT-34, as it can be connected to PCs, tablets, iOS, or Android devices via Wi-Fi through the PARDVision app. This allows users to capture 2592×1944 jpg. images or 1024×768 videos.
Build Quality and Design
In recent years, Pard really picked up the slack on the whole design department. For the longest time, we were used to them picking functionality over anything else, often disregarding the overall design of the device. We can honestly say now that it seems like Pard had realized that they can do both. The design of the FT-34 Multi-Function Thermal scope could still use a bit more refinement, especially on the edges, but it definitely shows that Pard is willing to move in the right direction.
It is IP67 waterproof rated, and it weighs only 455 g without the battery, which is considerably lighter than some of the competitors.
Pricing and Release Date
We don’t know what the final price of the Pard FT34 Multi-Function Thermal Scope will be, but we are guessing it will revolve around 3400 €. If these estimates are true, then this scope might be a bit overpriced, at least in our opinion. Current market has many equal if not better options available at the moment, and a lot of them come at a much lower price.
It is going to be fully released sometime in May 2023.
Conclusion
We can’t deny that the new Pard FT34 Multi-Function Thermal Scope made a positive impression on us. An integrated LRF, a quality sensor, wi-fi connectivity, an improved design compared to some older models, and above all its multi-functionality… These are all great things, there is no denying that.
Our concern, however, is that there is already a lot of competition in the front thermal attachment industry. We have no doubts that the new Pard FT34 will easily stand beside most of the competitors feature-wise, but we aren’t so sure about pricewise.
We aren’t exactly thrilled about the bayonet type clip-on system either. In our opinion, the Dedal 52×0.75 system would be a better choice, since it is a lot more popular.
We will have to wait and see what its final pricing will be and how the market will react to it. We will also make an in-depth review once we finally get it in our hands, so make sure you are subscribed to our YouTube channel: Optics Trade YouTube channel.
