Is that true of the older thermals? I thought I recalled a thread that indicated that some of the earlier gen stuff was now non-ITAR?
One thing to remember, this is a public forum. You absolutely should not break federal law. However, if you are so inclined, I would probably advise against discussing it publicly.
Just dug into the regs a little bit...
the answer is YES.. SOME thermal devices can now be exported without a license to a limited number of countries..
As I read things.. if there is a camera (most scopes and handhelds have a photo/video option) the frame rate cannot exceed 9 frames per second.. and you are limited to 30/60 hz (uncooled) and 384x288 pixel resolution.. and then you can still only export without a license to STA 1 countries (see list below). If you arent traveling to a STA 1 country, then you cant export without a license (all prior info applies.. get registered with DDTC, apply for a license, etc..etc..)...
My biggest concern would be similar to the recent discussion in the suppressor thread..
Can it be done? the answer is a "maybe"... depends on where youre going, what specific device you are taking, etc..
So.. the real question becomes.. do you trust that the TSA/Customs/Whoever thinks they are in charge at the moment person actually knows the difference in a 384 vs 640 class thermal? Knows what countries are legal to go to and which ones arent? etc..etc..
If I were trying to take a 384 class handheld to somewhere like Ireland, I'd just make sure I have copies of all of the regs in hand, copies of anything you could find on Irish law on hand, schematics/manufacturers info specific to my device that shows it within the standards addressed in the regulations, etc..etc.. and go on about my business.. and would probably make sure I got to the airport at least an hour earlier than originally planned so I have ample time to deal with whatever knucklehead decides to try to make my day more difficult than it should be..