At the 2025 SHOT Show, the industry's leading event, innovation took center stage as always. This year, we proudly introduced the InfiTac Fast Mini—the world’s first compact thermal optic designed specifically for pistols. This groundbreaking device is set to redefine how thermal optics are used in close-quarters engagements and tactical operations. Here’s a closer look at the tool that’s changing the game.
Breaking the Size Barrier
Thermal optics have long been a staple for rifles, shotguns, and long-range platforms, but their bulk has historically made them impractical for handguns. The InfiTac Fast Mini shatters that limitation. According to the SHOT Show 2025 demonstration, the optic measures just 1.5 inches in length and weighs a mere 3.2 ounces, making it comparable in size to many red-dot sights. Its streamlined design ensures it doesn’t disrupt the balance or holster compatibility of compact pistols, a critical factor for concealed carriers and law enforcement.
Cutting-Edge Thermal Technology
The Fast Mini isn’t just small—it’s packed with advanced features:
- High-Resolution Sensor: Boasting a 256x192 thermal core, it delivers crisp imaging even in total darkness, fog, or light foliage.
- 60Hz Refresh Rate: This ensures minimal latency, critical for tracking moving targets in real time.
- Detection Range: InfiTac claims a 100-yard detection range for human-sized targets, impressive for a device of this size.
- Multiple Display Modes: Users can toggle between classic thermal palettes (black-hot, white-hot, color) and even overlay reticle options tailored for pistol distances.
- Durability is also a focus. The optic is built to withstand IP67 waterproofing** and heavy recoil, tested up to .50 AE caliber. Its 5-hour battery life (with a replaceable CR2 cell) and instant-on functionality make it ready for rapid deployment.
User-Friendly Design
InfiTac prioritized accessibility with the Fast Mini:
- Installation compatibility: A universal RMR adapter ensures compatibility with most modern pistols. Optionally purchase multi other pistol footprints and rifle mounts.
- Intuitive Controls: The touch and button dual operation makes operating easy.
- Low Lightweight Profile: Unlike bulkier rifle optics, the Fast Mini avoids adding significant weight, preserving the pistol’s natural handling.
Who Needs the Fast Mini?
This optic caters to a diverse audience:
- Law Enforcement: For nighttime operations or suspect tracking in low-visibility conditions.
- Concealed Carriers: Enhanced situational awareness without compromising concealment.
- Hunters: Ideal for varmint control or navigating terrain after dusk.
- Tactical Trainers: A valuable tool for low-light training scenarios.
How does the FMP13’s thermal imaging compare to traditional night vision optics?
1. Detection Methodology
| FMP13 Thermal | Traditional Night Vision |
| Detects heat signatures (8–14 μm LWIR spectrum) | Amplifies ambient visible/NIR light (400–900 nm) |
| Identifies targets through total darkness, smoke, and light foliage | Requires minimal ambient light (fails in pitch black/smoke) |
| Cannot penetrate glass (shows reflections) | Can see through glass with light amplification |
2. Environmental Performance
| Advantage | FMP13 | NV Optics |
| Zero-Light Operation | ✅ Full functionality in absolute darkness | ❌ Requires moonlight/starlight |
| Smoke/Fog Penetration | ✅ Clear imaging through obscurants | ❌ Light scattering degrades image |
| Bright Light Resistance | ✅ Unaffected by muzzle flash/headlights | ❌ Risk of blooming/overexposure |
3. Technical Specifications
| Metric | FMP13 | Gen 3 Night Vision |
| Resolution | 256×192 (thermal) | 64–81 lp/mm (typical) |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz (eliminates motion blur) | 30–60Hz (varies by tube) |
| Detection Range | 100+ yards (thermal targets) | 200+ yards (ambient light-dependent) |
| Weight | 4 oz (113g) | 14–24 oz (typical monocular) |
4. Tactical Limitations
● FMP13 Drawbacks:
No optical pass-through (pure digital display)
5-hour battery life (vs. passive NV operation)
Limited to 100yd detection vs. NV’s longer-range identification
● NV Drawbacks:
Useless in smoke-filled rooms/industrial fog
Requires IR illuminators for total darkness
Vulnerable to laser dazzlers
5. Use Case Recommendations
● Choose FMP13 For:
Home defense (rapid threat ID through walls/smoke)
Close-quarters hunting (hog control in brush)
Dynamic entry scenarios (flammable environments)
● Choose Night Vision For:
Long-range reconnaissance (woodland/desert ops)
Situational awareness with depth perception
Daylight-to-dark transitions (with auto-gating tubes)
The FMP13’s 60Hz thermal overlay and IP67 ruggedness make it superior for no-light CQB, while traditional NV retains advantages in depth perception and light discipline. For mixed-condition operations, InfiTac suggests pairing the FMP13 with a red dot/LPVO in offset mounts.
Availability and Pricing
InfiTac released the Fast Mini in Q4 2024, with a projected MSRP of $699. While premium, this price undercuts many rifle-sized thermal optics, positioning it as a niche but transformative investment for serious users.
Final Thoughts
The InfiTac Fast Mini isn’t just a novelty—it’s a leap forward in thermal technology, proving that high-performance imaging can exist in even the smallest packages. For those who demand an edge in low-light environments, this optic could be a game-changer.
**See it in action**: Watch Thermal Optic Small Enough for a Pistol! The Infitac Fast Mini | SHOT Show 2025 by TFBTV Show Time
Stay tuned for more updates as InfiTac moves closer to launch. Will you be adding the Fast Mini to your kit?
What are the main features of the Fast Mini thermal pistol sight?
Core Innovation
The InfiTac Fast Mini FMP13 is the first full-thermal pistol sight that fits handguns like Glocks while delivering rifle-grade thermal imaging.
Key Features Demonstrated
● Compact thermal scope with a 256x192 resolution sensor and 13mm F1.0 lens for clear low-light imaging.
● Rugged design rated IP67 waterproof, resistant to 1200g recoil, and tested for drops up to 5 feet.
● Withstood **10mm pistol recoil** (3,000+ rounds) without zero shift
● Supports RMR, RMSc, DPP, and MOS pistol footprints and rifle mounts like Picatinny rails or 45° offsets. Direct mount on pistols (demoed on Glock 19X) . - 45° offset mount for rifles (compatible with LPVO/red dots on AR-15s)
● Features a 1.4-inch touchscreen with multi-reticle options (6 MOA dot, 65/130 MOA circles) and auto-brightness.
● Includes a CR2 battery (5-hour runtime) and USB-C external power support for extended use.
● Ships with a 3-year warranty and is restricted to US delivery due to ITAR regulations.
● Thermal detection range up to 100 yards, with limitations on glass penetration and screen visibility in heavy rain.
Video-Specific Observations
● TFBTV Show Time highlights its dual reticle modes:
Standard: Red/Green adjustable reticle
Stealth: Black-and-white mode to avoid screen glow
● Shows real-world comparisons: Outperforms bulkier rifle thermals in close-quarters drills.
● Battery demo: Lasted 5 hours continuous use.
Availability
● Price: $699
● Shipments: Free shipping within USA
● Specs: Pistol Sights Fast Mini FMP13
What maintenance steps are recommended for ensuring long-term durability in harsh environments?
1. Post-Exposure Care
● Water/Mud Contamination:
○ Wipe the screen and housing with a microfiber cloth immediately after submersion (IP67-rated but requires drying like smartphones).
○ Use compressed air to clear debris from mounting interfaces/USB-C port.
● Extreme Temperatures:
○ Do not expose the device to temperatures below -20°C or above ++50°C for extended periods.
○ Avoid sudden temperature swings to prevent lens fogging.
2. Recoil & Impact Checks
● Mounting Hardware:
○ Inspect Picatinny/RMR screws after 500+ rounds on high-recoil firearms (e.g., .45-70, 12ga shotguns).
○ Retorque to 15–18 in-lbs if loosening is detected.
● Structural Integrity:
○ Verify zero retention every 1,000 rounds (tested for 3,000+ rounds but proactive checks prevent drift).
3. Battery Maintenance
● CR2 Battery:
○ Replace non-rechargeable batteries every 4–5 operational hours (temperature-dependent).
● External Power:
○ Clean USB-C port monthly with isopropyl alcohol to prevent corrosion.
○ Prioritize external battery packs in <0°C environments to mitigate cold-related power drain.
4. Optical System Care
● Lens Cleaning:
○ Use lens-safe wipes for the 13mm F1.0 objective lens after dust/smoke exposure.
○ Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the germanium coating.
● Display Protection:
○ Apply a tempered glass screen protector (not included) to safeguard the 1.4-inch touchscreen.
5. Environmental Precautions
● Heavy Rain/Snow:
○ Store in a waterproof case when not in use.
● Sand/Dust:
○ Rinse under freshwater (post-desert ops) and dry thoroughly.
Warranty Compliance
● Register the device within 30 days to activate the 3-year limited warranty.
● Avoid third-party mounts/accessories to maintain coverage (use only Accessories).
For severe damage, ship to Dallas, TX facility (ITAR-compliant repairs only).
Are there compatibility issues with specific firearm models beyond those listed in testing?
1. Explicitly Tested Firearms
The FMP13 has been validated on:
● Handguns: Glock 19/45 mos (9mm), Sig Sauer P365, Springfield Hellcat（.etc.）
● Rifles: AR-15 (.223/5.56), AR-10 (.308), SCAR MK17 (7.62 NATO) （.etc.）
● Shotguns: Beretta 1301 (12ga)
● Lever Actions: .45-70 Government
2. Potential Compatibility Concerns
A. Non-RMR Pistols
● Issue: The default RMR footprint may not align with proprietary systems like: SIG Sauer ROMEO2 (custom tapered interface)
○ Walther PDP (modified RMSc pattern)
○ 1913 Master-Piece Arms (non-standard rail geometry)
● Solution: Requires purchasing Accessories, but may need third-party shims for perfect co-witness.
B. Bullpup Rifles
● Issue: Unique recoil impulses in designs like:Tavor X95 (forward-mounted action)
○ Kel-Tec KSG (dual-tube shotgun)
○ Desert Tech MDRX (gas-operated bullpup)
● Risk: Untested harmonics may affect thermal sensor calibration over time.
C. High-Impulse Magnums
● Untested Calibers:.460 S&W Magnum (3x the recoil energy of tested .45-70)
○ 12ga 3.5" Magnum Slugs (exceeds Beretta 1301's 3" test loads)
○ .50 BMG (though incompatible with listed mounts)
3. Mount-Related Limitations
● Picatinny Rail Variations: Some budget rails have out-of-spec grooves causing mount wobble.
● 45° Offset Conflicts: May interfere with ambidextrous controls on rifles.
● Weight Restrictions: The 4oz optic exceeds maximum sight weight for Kel-Tec CP33 (designed for <3oz optics).
4. Manufacturer Recommendations
1. Use only Accessories to maintain IP67 rating.
2. For untested firearms: Conduct a 50-round function test with backup irons co-witnessed.
a. Check thermal sensor alignment after every 200 rounds.
3. Avoid direct-mounting to: Polymer rails without steel reinforcement.
a. Reciprocating slides due to atypical slide mass.
For niche platforms, contact InfiTac’s Dallas facility (+1-800-555-0192) or Stephen@infitacusa.com about custom mount solutions.
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