Nocpix Rico 2 S75R review

First impressions

Nocpix’s flagship thermal riflescope, the Rico 2 S75R, has an exceptional specification. It prompts an obvious question: who exactly is it for?

To start with, the S75R boasts the largest objective lens currently available. It also features a joint-largest 1280×1024 thermal sensor and a circular 2560×2560 pixel AMOLED display. And – here’s the part for the well-heeled among us – it carries a price tag to match: £7,699.

If that figure gives you pause, here are a few more. It weighs a solid 1,300g and measures 342x116x93mm. However, those dimensions are comparable with Nocpix’s own S60R and other premium rivals.

Design and mounting

The S75R’s form factor is equally striking. In a post-Thermion world – ushered in by products such as the Pulsar Thermion thermal scope – most thermal scopes mimic traditional 30mm optics.

However, the boxier Rico stands apart. Its square-bodied core shows function over form. Then again, if you want to push the envelope, it helps to start with a larger one. A substantial mount therefore becomes essential. The 93mm objective bell must clear the receiver. A reliable quick-detach system is also vital. It helps avoid overcrowding the cabinet. It also allows use across multiple rifles. Importantly, it must handle recoil and added mass.

The Rico’s supplied mount delivers. A cantilevered Picatinny base positions the objective just millimetres above the rail. Twin throw-lever clamps prevent accidental opening. Lever tension is user-adjustable. This matters given out-of-spec rails still exist. A dedicated tool is included.

Adequate or exceptional?

One surprise was the absence of the spring-damped mount shown in promotional images. The supplied throw-lever version is perfectly adequate for lighter-recoiling UK rifles. However, it’s worth confirming options with your dealer for heavier calibres.

Controls, battery and usability

Power comes from a 4,400mAh rechargeable battery. It slots into the right-hand side and locks securely. Claimed runtime is 4.5 hours. A charger is included, alongside a magnetic charging cable. A USB-C port also allows charging or data transfer. Manual controls are well thought out. The metal lens cap is hinged and adjustable. The focus knob sits at 12 o’clock and offers fine adjustment. Zoom is controlled by a throw lever ahead of the eyepiece. The eyepiece provides generous dioptre adjustment and a distortion-free OLED view.

Rigidity and ergonomics

The eye box is forgiving, with a 23mm exit pupil and 70mm of eye relief. A magnetic rubber eyecup is included. It offers recoil protection and reduces glare. However, its rigidity proved uncomfortable during testing. It quickly returned to the case. Electronic functions are accessed via four rubberised buttons. These are Power, Up, Menu and Down. Tactile differentiation is good. Operation is intuitive. Standard features include image and video review via internal storage.

Rangefinding and ballistics

There are some minor irritations. Some menu functions scroll only in one direction. This slows navigation.

Seven colour palettes are available. However, the ability to hide unused ones would improve usability. More importantly, the scope’s rangefinding and ballistic capabilities impress. The integrated laser rangefinder is rated to 1,200m. Alignment between reticle and laser proved accurate.

Ballistic profiles can be configured via the scope or the Nocpix smartphone app. Up to five rifle profiles can be stored. However, caution is advised with multiple zero points. A single confirmed zero per rifle is safer. It avoids selecting the wrong baseline.

Reticles and shooting performance

Reticle choice is extensive. Custom designs can be uploaded via the app. The secondary point of aim (SPOA) can be displayed in several formats. These include cross, X, dot or horizontal dots.

Once ranged, the SPOA shows the corrected aiming point. Alternatively, the main reticle can adjust automatically. Both methods work well. Minimalist reticles suit SPOA. Complex reticles benefit from auto-adjustment. In all cases, multiple range readings are recommended before taking the shot.

AI-assisted image quality

Base magnification is 3x. Digital zoom extends to 30x. Earlier thermal devices pixelated quickly. However, modern AI-assisted processing improves clarity. It continuously refreshes the image using sensor data. This enhances target identification and reticle placement. Unlike traditional optics, thermal scopes rely less on magnification. Heat signatures do the work. The S75R excels at longer ranges. It allows precise shot placement when needed. The HD display is crisp. On-screen icons remain clear without cluttering the view.

Field test

Field testing proved positive, interesting and at times frustrating. Positive, because zeroing was straightforward. The interface is clear. Adjustments are precise. Image detail is excellent. The S75R also held zero reliably after removal and refitting.

Interesting, because Ultra-Clear mode made a noticeable difference in mist, rain and snow. Frustrating, because those same conditions prevented full long-range testing. A planned rabbit outing had to be postponed. It would likely have showcased the scope at its best.

In conclusion

If long-range shooting already forms part of your repertoire, the Rico 2 S75R makes a persuasive case. If the specification appeals more than the price, three additional models sit below it. These include the H75R, H50R and L42R. All share the same HD display, rangefinder and ballistic systems.

The Nocpix brand benefits from strong parentage. It is a division of InfiRay. UK distribution is handled by Hawke Optics, ensuring reliable support. Warranty cover is reassuring. It includes 10 years for the thermal core and four years for the main body.

More numbers – this time, the reassuring kind.

Key details

• RRP: £7,699
• Website: https://nocpix.uk