Best Thermal Scope – Top 5 Best Rated Thermal Scopes Reviews

Shooters are constantly looking for ways to improve their skills. Many turn to advancements in technology to provide an advantage. Thermal imaging is one high-tech method shooters are using to give them an edge. Once relegated to the military, thermal imaging is becoming increasingly accessible to civilians. Whether you’re hunting nocturnal game or outfitting your firearm for personal protection, the best thermal scope is one way shooters can own the night.

If you’re in a hurry and don’t have time for the details, here are our best picks for thermal scopes:

1. Pulsar Core RXQ30V – Best Value Thermal Scope
2. Trijicon SNIPE-IR Clip-On Thermal Imaging Monocular
3. Pulsar Thermion XG50
4. ATN ThOR 4
5. AGM Global Vision Rattler TS25-384

The Low-Down on Thermal Imaging

All objects, both natural and man-made, emit infrared energy in the form of heat. The warmer something is, the more infrared energy it produces. 

Although infrared energy cannot be seen with the human eye, thermal imaging sensors can detect even the tiniest differences in temperature. This technology can transform that infrared energy into a detailed temperature pattern called a thermogram. Thermal imaging devices take less than a second to gather temperature information and use it to generate the thermogram. It then uses internal software to translate that information into a viewable image. 

Since humans and other animals generate more heat than inanimate objects in the environment, they are easy to detect with a thermal optic. When viewed through a thermal scope, living organisms often appear as glowing orange, red, and yellow objects against the duller blues and greens of the surrounding area.

Why You Need a Thermal Scope?

Thermal imaging can be used for a variety of shooting applications. 

For hunters, a thermal scope is invaluable for identifying nocturnal targets like hogs, coyotes, and other predators. Even if you aren’t hunting after dark, a thermal scope can help you detect game through dense fog or thick vegetation. When used this way, they are also handy tools for deer hunting.   

Thermal optics are also a popular option for tactical shooting. Even if you aren’t a military or law enforcement shooter, a thermal optic can help you identify living targets, even when it’s too dark to see.

Traveling with a Thermal Scope

Thermal scopes are covered under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations, so transporting them across national borders is illegal.  In fact, it is against the law for a non-US citizen to possess or even look through a night vision or thermal scope.

Best Thermal Scope on the Market Reviews

As thermal imaging continues to advance, the technology becomes more common and affordable. For now, quality thermal scopes are an expensive investment. 

Even the cheapest thermal scopes rarely fall under $1000. However, we are firm believers in the “Buy Once Cry Once” approach to optics. Invest a little more cash in a quality optic, and it is far more likely to prove reliable for years to come.

 1   Pulsar Core RXQ30V – Best Value Thermal Scope

This tough, reliable thermal scope from industry leader Pulsar is one of the more economical options on our list. It provides highly detailed images in your choice of white-hot, black-hot, or green sapphire. The green sapphire display mode is designed to reduce eye fatigue, allowing you to scan for targets for longer periods of time. 

The Pulsar Core also has a picture-in-picture function that allows you to make precision shots without sacrificing a wide field of view. It also has a generous 985-yard detection range, making it perfect for coyote hunting. The optic also features a 50Hz refresh rate, which allows you to more easily observe rapid-moving targets. 

Shooters can expect four hours of use on two CR123A batteries. However, operation time can be increased by using an external power supply. 

Is It Worth It?

Quality thermal optics don’t come cheap, but the Pulsar Core has a lot to offer for just under $2000. While we can’t exactly categorize this one as a “budget option,” it is definitely one of the more affordable options on our list. It still requires a bit of an investment, but you’ll get a lot for the money. 

Here’s just a short sampling of what the Pulsar Core RXQ30V has to offer.

• Can be used as a stand-alone thermal monocular. 
• Green sapphire display mode to ease eye strain.
• Picture-in-picture function.
• IPX7 waterproof rating.
• 50 Hz refresh rate.
• 384×288 resolution.
• 985-yard detection range.
• Digital zoom.
• Variable magnification. 
• Three-year warranty.

Mounting and Accessories

The Pulsar Core RXQ30V comes with an external power adapter, wireless remote control, CR123A batteries, a cleaning cloth, and a carry case.  It mounts easily to a Weaver or Picatinny rail using a simple hex wrench.

 2   Trijicon SNIPE-IR Clip-On Thermal Imaging Monocular

The lightweight, compact, military-grade Trijicon SNIPE-IR is designed to mount in front of your regular daytime riflescope. This allows you to seamlessly transition from daylight to nighttime shooting with your favorite optic. 

 The SNIPE-IR is crafted from 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum. The optic is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed for reliable fogproof, waterproof, shockproof function. 

It features a simple thumb stick controller that is easy to use, even in complete darkness. The menu system is also highly intuitive, making this optic practically idiot-proof. 

One of our favorite features is Trijicon’s No Shot Zero Sight-In feature. This feature allows you to verify bore sight after the optic is attached. It provides easy sight-in integration when paired with Trijicon’s battle-proven ACOGs (Adavanced Combat Optical Gunsight). This one feature makes the SNIPE-IR the perfect option for AR-15 rifles already outfitted with an ACOG. 

The SNIPE-IR’s Digital Focus Control Image Enhancement feature lets shooters sharpen the sight picture for extreme detail, allowing for precise shot placement. 

Is It Worth It?

This optic comes with a pretty hefty price tag. Do we think it’s worth it? It’s a Trijicon, so that should be all it takes to convince you. However, if you want the run-down of this clip-on thermal optic’s best features, here it is. 

• Durable construction.
• Convenient clip-on design. 
• Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof. 
• Easy-to-use thumb stick controller. 
• No Shot Zero Sight-In.
• Intuitive menu system.
• Digital Focus Control Image Enhancement.
• 30 Hz and 60 Hz frame rates.
• 640×480 resolution. 

Mounting and Accessories

The Trijicon SNIPE-IR comes with an easy-to-use Mini D-LOC rifle mount.

 3   Pulsar Thermion XG50

With a state-of-the-art imaging sensor, the Pulsar Thermion XP50 has a radical detection range of 2400 yards, one of the longest ranges in the industry. 

Not only does the Thermion XP50 have an impressive range, but it also provides some of the clearest images you’ll see through a thermal scope. Pulsar utilizes its exclusive Image Boost Technology and Germanium lenses to deliver a razor-sharp, highly detailed field of view. This makes it easier to identify targets, even at longer ranges. It even has picture-in-picture digital zoom so you can make precision long-range shots without sacrificing your field of view.

The Thermion XP50 features eight color palettes, allowing you to fully customize your thermal viewing experience. White-hot and black-hot are the most popular settings. Red hot, rainbow, and ultramarine emphasize a heat signature’s more intense hot spots. Violet, red monochrome, and sepia are designed to reduce eye fatigue for extended observation. 

Perfect for capturing all the adrenaline-pumping action of varmint, big game, or hog hunting, the Thermion XP50 features recoil-activated digital recording. It can store hours of video and thousands of photos.

Is It Worth It?

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a used Pulsar Thermion XG50 for under $5000, and new optics are even more expensive than that. However, this thermal optic is one of the best thermal optics for long-distance shooting on the market today. 

In the world of optics, it is usually true that you get what you pay for. That is definitely true here, and the Thermion VG50 is jam-packed with high-performance features. 

• 2400-yard detection range. 
• Recoil-activated video recording.
• Image Boost Technology.
• Germanium lenses.
• Picture-in-picture digital zoom.
• IPX7 waterproof rating.
• Eight color palettes.
• 50 Hz refresh rate.
• 640×480 resolution. 
• 3-24x magnification range. 

Mounting and Accessories

The Pulsar Thermion XG50 comes with a APS2 battery pack, battery charger, USB cable, cleaning cloth, and a carry case. The scope does not come with scope rings, so you will need to purchase a set of 30mm scope rings.

 4   ATN ThOR 4

Although the ATN ThOR 4 looks a lot like a traditional riflescope, sometimes looks can be deceiving. That is certainly the case with this ultra-modern high-tech optic. It features an internal dual-core processor that basically performs like a computer mounted to your rifle. The processor reduces image pixelation and increases thermal sensitivity to provide clear, high-contrast images. 

However, the ThOR 4 is far more than a thermal riflescope. It also includes an onboard ballistic calculator that factors in temperature, humidity, and the ballistic performance of your chosen loads. The device does all the hard math for you and instantly calculates angle to target adjustments. The ThOR 4 even stores multiple ballistic profiles to match changing loads or changing weapons. 

To capture all the excitement of your shooting adventures, the ThOR 4 also recoil activated video recording. Shooters will also enjoy the device’s WI-Fi streaming capabilities. 

Other notable features include an e-compass, GPS for geotagging and elevation tracking, a smart rangefinder, and a three-year warranty. 

Is It Worth It?

If you want a thermal optic but love the look of a classic riflescope, you’ll love the ATN ThOR 4. Just don’t be deceived by its classic good looks. The ATN ThOR 4 is a cutting-edge high-tech optic jam-packed with features. 

• Internal dual core processor.
• Onboard ballistic calculator. 
• Stores multiple ballistic profiles. 
• Recoil activated video recording. 
• Wi-Fi streaming. 
• E compass.
• GPS positioning.
• Smart rangefinder.
• 60 Hz refresh rate. 
• 640×480 resolution. 
• Three-year warranty. 

Mounting and Accessories

The ATN ThOR 4 comes with standard scope rings, a USB-C cable, and a scope cover.

 5   AGM Global Vision Rattler TS25-384

If you’re looking for a rugged compact thermal scope for lengthy hunting excursions or tactical maneuvers, the AGM Rattler definitely fits the bill. Built for rough use and harsh environments, the Rattler also offers reliable 24-hour operation. The drive uses two CR123 batteries that provide up to 4 ½ hours of continuous use. You can also connect the Rattler to an external 5V power bank via a USB connector for extended operation. 

The Rattler also features an integrated Wi-Fi module that allows for live video streaming. You can also capture and store video and still images right on the optic. 

With adjustable color palettes, you can adjust the settings to optimize target visibility in changing environments. 

Is It Worth It?

The resolution isn’t terrific compared to some of the other models on our list, however, this optic is an affordable entry-level thermal optic perfect for beginners.

• Rugged construction. 
• 24-hour operation. 
• Connects to external power bank.
• Two CR123 batteries provide up to 4 ½ hours of operation.
• Can also be used as a handled device. 
• 8x zoom. 
• 50 Hz refresh rate. 
• 384×288 resolution. 
• Limited three-year warranty. 

Mounting and Accessories

The Rattler TS25-384 comes with the single lever ADM Quick-Detach Mount.

Final Thoughts

There is a lot for shooters to consider before jumping into the world of thermal optics. If you are willing to investigate a new technological advantage, thermal imaging can open up a whole new world of shooting opportunities.  

The best thermal scope can be an invaluable tool for helping you identify live targets after the sun goes down. Not every optic will work for every shooter. However, the models on our list are all top-quality options that have proven their worth in the field. Hopefully, this guide will help bring you one step closer to discovering the best thermal scope for your shooting needs.