Rix Storm S3R LRF Thermal Rifle Scope

The Rix Storm S3R LRF is a compact, sub-one-pound thermal rifle scope with a built-in laser rangefinder and free Rix ballistic calculator — purpose-built for hunters who want real performance and integrated ranging in a package light enough to scan with by hand. It pairs a 384×288 VOx thermal sensor with a 35 mm F/1.0 germanium objective and a high-resolution 1024×768 OLED display, then layers in Rix's Resolution Enhancement Technology (RET) — an AI-driven image processor that sharpens detail beyond what the raw sensor produces. The result is a thermal scope that punches above its sensor class while staying genuinely portable.

If you want a 384 thermal scope for hog hunting that stays easy to carry, this is the one. It also fits predator and coyote hunters, ranch and landowner use, and any setup where mobility matters as much as glass quality. Skip it if you need the absolute maximum image detail at long distance — that's where the 640-sensor S6R earns its price step.

What makes the S3R worth its price

• Sub-one-pound build that scans like a monocular. At about 1 lb, the Storm S3R is light enough to hold up and scan a field by hand, then drop onto a rifle via the included quick-detach Picatinny mount when it's time to shoot. Most thermal scopes force a choice between scope and scanner. This one doesn't.
• Built-in laser rangefinder, no bulk added. The integrated LRF ranges accurately to 1,312 yards with ±1 meter precision and pairs with the free Rix ballistic calculator. You confirm distance and dial a correction without ever pulling a second device out of your pack.
• Resolution Enhancement Technology (RET). Rix's AI image processing sharpens perceived detail and contrast on top of the 384×288 sensor — meaningful real-world clarity gain in a sensor class where image processing is often the difference between identifying a target and guessing.
• Independent PIP magnification. Most thermal scopes lock the picture-in-picture window to the main view's zoom. The S3R lets you zoom the PIP independently — keep the wide field of view for situational awareness while the small inset window gives you a magnified picture of the target. A genuine advantage when you're scanning or tracking movement.
• Gloved-use controls. Four-direction enlarged button layout with backlit confirmation — every press lights the corresponding UI element so you know it registered. Designed around low-light, cold-hands, fast-action reality, not a showroom.
• Reticle to Center (RTC). After you zero, RTC auto-recenters the reticle in the field of view so you don't end up shooting through the corner of the display. A small detail that pays off every time you mount the scope.

Who the S3R is built for

• Hog hunters who want a 384 thermal that's easy to carry through brush and fast on close, moving targets
• Predator and coyote hunters working close-to-mid range, where the 3.5× base mag and wide FOV outperform a higher-mag scope you can't keep on a moving animal
• Landowners and ranchers doing perimeter scans and night patrols who want one tool that scans and shoots
• Hunters who hike to their setup and care about ounces
• Anyone who wants real LRF and ballistic support without stepping into 640-sensor pricing

Full specifications

• Thermal sensor: 384 × 288, 12 μm pixel pitch, VOx uncooled
• NETD: <25 mK
• Objective lens: 35 mm, F/1.0 germanium
• Base optical magnification: 3.5×
• Digital zoom: 1× to 4× (3.5× to 14× total)
• Field of view: 7.5°
• Detection range: up to 1,800 m / 1,969 yd
• Display: 1024 × 768 OLED
• Refresh rate: 50 Hz
• Image processing: Resolution Enhancement Technology (RET)
• Laser rangefinder: built-in, ranging to 1,312 yd with ±1 m accuracy
• Ballistic support: free Rix ballistic calculator (compatible)
• Picture-in-Picture: independent PIP magnification
• Reticle: Reticle to Center (RTC) auto-centering after zero
• Recoil rating: 1000 g
• Weatherproofing: IP67
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi
• Onboard storage: 32 GB
• Recording: audio and video
• Battery: single 18650 (swappable)
• Mount: quick-detach Picatinny mount included
• Weight: approximately 1 lb (453 g)
• Warranty: 5-year manufacturer warranty (Rix Optics)

Frequently asked questions

Is the Storm S3R LRF a good thermal scope for hog hunting?

Yes. The combination of a 384 sensor, 3.5× base magnification, wide field of view, sub-one-pound weight, and integrated LRF makes it well suited to hog hunting — close-to-mid range engagements on moving targets in brush, where image processing and a usable FOV matter more than maximum zoom. The included QD mount means the same unit also serves as a handheld scanner.

Does the Storm S3R need a separate rangefinder?

No. The S3R has a built-in laser rangefinder that ranges to 1,312 yards with ±1 m accuracy and pairs with Rix's free ballistic calculator. No second device needed.

What is the difference between the S3R and the S6R?

The S3R uses a 384×288 thermal sensor; the S6R steps up to a 640×512 sensor. The 640 sensor resolves more detail at longer distances, at a higher price. The S3R is the right choice for hunters prioritizing weight, portability, and value in the 384 class. The S6R is the right choice when maximum image detail at long range is the deciding factor.

Can the S3R be used as a handheld scanner?

Yes — that's a core design intent. At approximately 1 lb, it's light enough to hold and scan by hand without arm fatigue, and the included quick-detach Picatinny mount lets you move from handheld scanning to rifle-mounted shooting in seconds.

What battery does the Storm S3R use?

A single 18650 lithium-ion battery, swappable in the field. Spare batteries are an inexpensive way to extend a full night of hunting.

Does it record video?

Yes. The S3R records audio and video onboard, with 32 GB of internal storage and Wi-Fi for transferring footage.

Is the S3R waterproof?

The S3R is rated IP67, which covers dust ingress and water immersion to a defined depth and duration — appropriate for hunting in rain, snow, and adverse weather.

What is RET?

Resolution Enhancement Technology — Rix's AI-driven image processing that sharpens perceived detail and contrast on top of the raw sensor output. It's a meaningful contributor to how the S3R's image quality compares to other 384-sensor scopes.

What's the warranty?

Rix Optics backs the Storm S3R with a 5-year manufacturer warranty.