Best Thermal Scope | Guide To The Best Thermal Scope For The Money

Are you looking for the best thermal scope for the money? Our guide for buying a thermal scope asks (and answers) a number of questions. Firstly, what is your budget for a scope? Secondly, do you hunt at night? Thirdly, are you looking for a high-tech solution to your hunting needs? At the same time, are you comfortable with a fairly technical scope when you’re out in the field? Finally, are you the sort of hunter who demands quality equipment? If you’re looking for a thermal scope, then our comprehensive guide can help you find it.

Quick glance at the best thermal scopes:

Best Thermal Scopes Reviewed

If you’re going to shop for a thermal scope, then our guide can help you. Firstly, we have listed several scopes we think are worthwhile choices. Then we have described the features that make those scopes good buys for the money. After that, we have explained what shooters who use this scope think about the scope.  Ultimately, nothing could be simpler.

ATN ThOR HD 384 Smart Thermal Riflescope

Our first pick is the ATN ThOR HD 384 Smart Thermal Riflescope for our list. This is a great thermal scope for you because it offers excellent image performance. Additionally, it includes a ballistic calculator. In other words, the scope can calculate bullet trajectories to help make you a more accurate shooter. At the same time, it lets you adjust your point of impact on the fly to dial in your shot.

Secondly, the scope includes a smart rangefinder. In other words, it will make it easy for you to calculate ranges. At the same time, knowing accurate ranges to target can make you a more accurate shot. Most importantly, the scope has a 12 x 9.5 angle of view. In similar fashion, it has “smooth zoom” technology. In other words, it lets you magnify the target without losing track of it. This differs from step zoom scopes and, in particular, is a real plus. In light of that, it would be tempting to think that’s all. The scope, however, also has a high-resolution video recording and photo feature. Most importantly, it offers recoil-activated video. At the same time, it can even stream to Wi-Fi.

Features

This scope has several features that make it a great choice. Firstly, the scope offers Smart HD Optics Technology. In other words, this technology makes it better compared to similar scopes. At the same time, the scope has Recoil Activated Video (RAV). Most importantly, this feature makes it next to impossible to miss recording a shot. In the final analysis, you’ll be able to share the thrill of the hunt with anyone you choose. The laser ballistics laser range finder is balanced against this to round out the feature set.

Those features notwithstanding, there are still more to consider. Firstly, the scope has an extended life battery pack. In other words, it promises 22 hours of continuous use. Most importantly, this allows you to use the scope without worrying about running down its power supply. Secondly, the scope has superb image performance thanks to its internal sensor. At the same time, we cannot praise the ballistic calculator and built-in range finder enough. Lastly, we absolutely love the smooth zoom feature. In other words, it’s much better than a step zoom thermal scope. At the end of the day, this scope is packed with features.

What Users think

If you want to know what shooters think about this scope, then our guide can help you. Users of this scope have a lot to say about it. Firstly, they praise the smart optics technology. In other words, they love the scope’s technical performance. At the same time, this performance comes at a price that seems reasonable to most users. Most importantly, users liked the Recoil Activated Video (RAV) feature. Balanced against never missing a shot recording, this is a hard scope to beat.

Secondly, users of this thermal scope were very excited about the laser ballistics range finder. In other words, being able to accurately judge range was very important to the scope’s user base. At the same time, these shooters loved the battery life of the scope. Additionally, shooters had nice things to say about the ballistic calculator.

Lastly, shooters who use this scope really like its overall fit, finish, and quality. In other words, they rate it as a good value for what you get versus what you pay.

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Armasight by FLIR Zeus 336 3-12x50mm Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope

Our second pick is the Armasight by FLIR Zeus 336 3-12x50mm Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope for our list. This is a great thermal scope for you because it comes with a three-year warranty. The FLIR Thermal Imaging Camera is a high-performer, but the scope has a lot more going for it. Firstly, it fits any Picatinny or Weaver rail. At the same time, there is an optional external power supply and video recorder available. Most importantly, the scope is so high tech it can only be sold to those in the United States due to ITAR regulations.

Secondly, the company advertises this scope as its most technologically advanced. In other words, this scope incorporates solid state, uncooled, long-wave infrared, magnified dedicated technology. Most importantly, it can be used both during the day and at night. Thirdly, the thermal imaging lets you find targets even if there is fog, haze, snow, dust, smoke, or other things obscuring the view. At the same time, the Zeus scope can record images it detects. As a matter of fact, the Zeus has video-out capability.

Features

This scope has several features that make it a great choice. Firstly, the Zeus product line boasts ten different models. At the same time, it is solid state and can be used during both day and night. Most importantly, it has intuitive controls that are simple and easy to use. Secondly, the Zeus produces no light in the visible spectrum. Additionally, the Zeus produces no radio frequency (RF) energy. At the same time, the software in this scope can be upgraded. Most importantly, the scope comes with a wireless remote switch.

Thirdly, the Zeus is easy to install. At the same time, it is extremely reliable. Moreover, it is designed for maximum reticle contrast and high target accuracy. At the same time, it was built for boresight retention above and beyond what can be achieved mechanically.  Lastly, the scope has active contrast enhancement, which is a digital feature. At the same time, it has automatic gain control. Most importantly, a mechanical shutter is incorporated between the camera and lens to perform flat field correction. Another key point is that this is the lightest and most compact scope in its class.

Related: Best Spotting Scope

What users think

If you want to know what shooters think about this scope, then our guide can help you. Users of this scope have a lot to say about it. Firstly, they praise its light weight and small size. At the same time, they like the fact that they can select NTSC or PAL format for video. Most importantly, they find the drop-down user interface simple to use and figure out. Secondly, shooters who use this scope praise its active contrast enhancement, smart scene optimization, and automatic gain control. At the same time, they like the silent, shutterless non-uniformity correction.  Additionally, shooters were very happy with the fact that it is water resistant and fog resistant.

Thirdly, users of this scope liked the Picatinny rail quick release mounting and the shuttered eye guard. At the same time, shooters love the three-year warranty (and the ten-year warranty on the FLIR unit). Most importantly, users seem to really like the wireless remote control when engaged in “tactical” maneuvers with this scope.  Other popular features include the fast imaging, the digital e-zoom, and the rapid startup.

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American Technologies Network DGWSXS314Z X-Sight II Riflescope, 3-14x

Our third pick is the American Technologies Network CDGWSXS314Z X-Sight II. This thermal scope can be used both during the night and during the day. It has many other great qualities, too. Firstly, the scope is known for its colors in HD. At the same time, it has a ballistic calculator that lets you shift your point of impact on the fly. In other words, it makes it easy for you to make angled and very long-range shots.

Secondly, the scope has a smart range finder. In other words, with just two clicks you can determine the range to the target. Most importantly, the smart ranger finder will then adjust the point of impact automatically. Thirdly, the scope has 3-14 magnification. At the same time, fine adjustments are very smooth. Most importantly, the video recorder and camera offer 1080p HD quality. Like many scopes in this product class, this one also has Recoil Activated Video (RAV). Moreover, the X-Sight scope has upgradable firmware. This is another reason to consider this particular model.

Features

This scope has several features that make it a great choice. Firstly, it has a durable case and a sleek, modern design. At the same time, it offers Smart HD Optics Technology. In other words, the scope can be used both during the day and at night. Most importantly, it has Recoil Activated Video (RAV) to capture every shot. Secondly, the scope has a built-in range finder. In other words, you don’t have to carry a separate range finder because this option is built right in. Most importantly, the range finder lets you easily and simply calculate the distance to the target.

Thirdly, the ballistic calculator is very helpful. If you can enter your environmental data, then the calculator will perform the math for you automatically. In other words, the ballistic calculator simplifies the process of making you a more accurate shooter. Coupled with the HD video recording feature, this makes the scope a very good choice. What’s more, the remote control lets you operate the scope, while the extended life battery pack makes recharging very easy. Another key point is that the scope has GPS and e-compass features as well as dipolar adjustment. Finally, the scope is very easy to install and is weather resistant.

Related: Best Scope Under $500

What users think

If you want to know what shooters think about this scope, then our guide can help you. Users of this scope have a lot to say about it. Firstly, shooters who have used this scope praise the ease of installation. At the same time, they have a lot of great things to say about the ballistic calculator. In other words, shooters like a scope that helps automate some of the process of making accurate long-distance shots. Most importantly, users of this scope like the fact that it can be used across a wide variety of conditions and situations.

Secondly, users of this scope are very happy with its quality, fit, and finish. Additionally, users praise the Recoil Activated Video (RAV) feature and the built-in range finder. Moreover, users of this scope seem pleased with the Smart HD Optics technology. Thirdly, users of this scope seem to think it’s a great mix of features and quality at the price point. In the final analysis, this is a well-made and full-featured thermal scope.

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Armasight by FLIR Predator 336 2-8x25mm Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope 

Our fourth pick is the Armasight by FLIR Predator 336 2-8x25mm Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope. This scope offers a FLIR Imaging Camera. Moreover, it comes with a three-year warranty overall and a ten-year warranty on the FLIR unit. At the same time, this scope has what the manufacturer calls the latest Tau 2 17-micron uncooled core technology for the FLIR unit. In the same way, the scope has multiple other high-tech features.

Firstly, the scope boasts no less than six digitally controlled reticle patterns. In other words, the user can choose and change the reticle pattern he or she prefers.  Most importantly, these reticle patterns include no reticle at all, crosshairs, a cross, a cross-center dot, a line dot, and Dot 4 MOA options. Secondly, the scope is so high tech that it cannot be exported outside the United States. At the same time, it features an OLED display and high-quality video output that the manufacturer calls “high-end.”

Features

This scope has several features that make it a great choice. Firstly, like other scopes in this product family, it is billed as the lightest and most compact scope in its product class. At the same time, it has Tau 2 17-micron uncooled FLIR technology. Most importantly, it has 2X magnification in PAL format and 1.6X magnification in NTSC format. Moreover, it offers 336 x 256-pixel array format and fast 30Hz imaging.

Secondly, the scope has multiple reticle covers including white, black, cyan, and red. Additionally, it offers a wireless remote control for “tactical operations.” At the same time, it offers “rapid startup.” Thirdly, the scope has a Picatinny rail quick-release mount and a shuttered eye guard. Most importantly, the scope is made in the United States and constrained from export because it is so high-tech.

Fourthly, the scope has both analog input and output formats and an eye relief of 45mm. Moreover, its focusing range is 3m to infinity. Most importantly, an extended battery pack is available as an option. Like other, similar scopes, this one is water resistant and fog resistant.

Related: Best Scope Under $1000

What users think

If you want to know what shooters think about this scope, then our guide can help you. Users of this scope have a lot to say about it. Firstly, they praise its intuitive and easy to use drop-down user interface. At the same time, they are very excited about the wireless controller. Another factor is the complete lack of visible light or radio frequency energy produced by the scope. Most importantly, users praise the solid state technology and the ease of use for adjustments. In the final analysis, however, users also like the scope’s ease of installation.

Secondly, shooters who use this scope like the quick-release rail mount and the electronic zoom for maintaining bore sight. On the other hand, the video output features also get high marks. In the same way, users are happy about the CNC machining and high-quality construction. The scope is made of aircraft grade aluminum, specifically. Thirdly, users of this scope like the overall fit, finish, and quality. In the final analysis, this is a high-quality and high-tech scope that will serve you well.

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Pulsar Trail XQ Thermal Riflescope

Our fifth pick is the Pulsar Trail XQ Thermal Riflescope. This scope has an integrated HD video recorder. Moreover, it has several other great qualities. Firstly, it comes complete with an app called Stream Vision, which connects the app to your phone or tablet. Secondly, it meets the IPX7 specification for water resistance. At the same time, it offers up to eight hours of life from its battery. Most importantly, it has a multi-function remote control.

Secondly, this scope has onboard software that can be upgraded to keep it current. Additionally, it offers variable magnification in the range of 2.7 to 10.8 times. Most importantly, it has a detection range of more than 1,900 yards (almost 2,000). Thirdly, the scope features digital zoom with picture-in-picture technology. Equally important is the fact that you can have up to three rifle profiles and five different zeroes saved in the software. In other words, this scope can be used on multiple rifles with a minimum of difficulty.

Features

This scope has several features that make it a great choice. Firstly, it has a stadiametric rangefinder. At the same time, it offers IRIS technology. In other words, the scope offers increased recognition and detection software. Secondly, the scope has variable magnification. Moreover, the scope offers thirteen variable electronic reticles. In the same fashion, the scope lets you save up to three different rifle profiles and five different zeroes.  Thirdly, the scope features one-shot zeroing and a “freeze” function. Additionally, the scope has a high-resolution AMOLED display. Perhaps most importantly, the scope has a detection range of 1,970 yards.

Fourthly, the scope has an integrated HD video recorder that offers great picture quality. Meanwhile, the scope also has a Stream Vision app. In other words, your scope can connect to a smart device. This makes it even more versatile. Lastly, the scope has excellent battery life. In other words, the battery life is listed as up to eight hours. In the final analysis, this scope is water resistant and fog resistant. Moreover, the Pulsar Trail XQ is a great value for the price point, making it accessible to shooters who have budgeted for that range.

What users think

If you want to know what shooters think about this scope, then our guide can help you. Users of this scope have a lot to say about it. Firstly, they really like the integrated HD video recording feature. At the same time, they find the Stream Vision app very handy when using the scope with smart devices. Moreover, they like the fact that the scope meets the IPX7 specification for water resistance.

Secondly, shooters who use this scope praise the long battery life and the multi-functional remote control. At the same time, they are very happy the scope’s software can be upgraded to keep the unit current. Most importantly, they seem very pleased by the variable magnification range. Additionally, they like the 1,970-yard detection range.  

Thirdly, shooters who use this scope give the picture in picture digital zoom very high marks. Moreover, shooters love the option to save up to three rifle profiles and up to five zeroes. At the same time, they like having the option to choose from thirteen different variable electronic reticles.

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FLIR R-Series RS64 1.1-9X Riflescope

Our sixth pick is the FLIR R-Series RS64 1.1-9X Riflescope. It offers a FLIR imaging camera and a 640×480 display resolution. Then again, it has many other qualities that make it a great option. For example, it can be submerged in water up to one meter deep for up to 30 minutes without damaging it (according to the manufacturer). On the other hand, it offers simple and easy operation from a four-button setup.

There are other qualities that make this scope a good choice. Firstly, it has multiple options for resolution and lenses. At the same time, it has a three-inch eye relief with a nice, protective eye piece. Most importantly, it has three different reticle settings and up to six video palettes. Secondly, the scope offers up to sixteen times magnification and features advanced image correction. Moreover, the scope has a shock reduction system as part of its design. Thirdly, the manufacturer says this scope can be used on a modern sporting rifle platform of up to .308 caliber.

Features

This scope has several features that make it a great choice. Firstly, it has a frame rate of 30Hz and a focal length of 34mm. At the same time, the lens has an eighteen-degree HFOV with a fixed focus. Most importantly, the scope offers up to eight times electronic zoom. Additionally, the scope offers multiple reticle colors that include white, black, red, and green.

Secondly, the scope has an internal lithium-ion battery that incorporates a standard USB interface. At the same time, it includes a wall charger and is compatible with an external battery pack (which is not included). Most importantly, the scope offers a video out option.

Thirdly, the scope has more than one lens option and more than one resolution option. Moreover, it offers good eye protection and three inches of eye relief. Most importantly, the reticle choices include duplex and fine duplex as well as German. As you can see, these are all great choices. In the final analysis, this scope is a great choice that is simple to use and fully featured.

What users think

If you want to know what shooters think about this scope, then our guide can help you. Users of this scope have a lot to say about it. Firstly, they praise the scope’s excellent display and the performance of the FLIR imaging camera. At the same time, they have good things to say about how waterproof the scope is. In other words, being able to submerge your scope in a meter of water for half an hour is seen as a real plus. If you want a scope that can hold up in high moisture conditions, then this is the one for you.

Secondly, shooters who use this scope consider it fully featured. Moreover, they have good things to say about its controls and its overall performance. During field use, they have had good experiences using this thermal scope to make long distance shots. Without doubt, this may indeed be the best thermal scope for the money if its price and features match your needs and fit within your budget.

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ATN X-Sight II HD 5-20 Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope 

Our seventh pick is the ATN X-Sight II HD Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope. It offers so many great qualities. Firstly, it can be used both in low light and during daylight conditions. At the same time, it has high definition resolution and offers a “crystal clear” image. Most importantly, its zero range is 100 yards and its day and night vision is in “millions of colors.” Secondly, the scope offers a ballistic calculator. The ballistic calculator shifts the point of impact “on the fly,” which is equally important for angled shots and shots at extreme ranges. At the same time, the scope has a smart range finger that, with two clicks, lets you determine the range to the target.

Features

This scope has several features that make it a great choice. Firstly, the HD image is usable in both daylight and at night, making this a 24-7 scope. At the same time, the ballistic calculator makes it possible to calculate ballistics while in the field. In other words, this simplifies your task as a shooter trying to make long range shots. Secondly, the smart range finder makes determining the distance to your target a breeze. At the same time, the -20 magnification has smooth zoom for fine adjustment on each shot. In other words, you’ll be able to dial in your shot for each new target while getting a nice, clean picture at variable magnification. Lastly, the scope offers Recoil Activated Video (RAV) so that you can take video when the round goes downrange.

What users think

If you want to know what shooters think about this scope, then our guide can help you. Users of this scope have a lot to say about it. Firstly, they are very happy with the fact that the scope can be used both during the day and at night. This basically means the scope can be used twenty-four hours a day for a variety of applications. At the same time, the scope has a beautifully clear HD image that is a pleasure to use. Secondly, shooters who have used this scope praise the ballistic calculator’s ability to shift the point of impact “on the fly.” They’re also very happy with the smart range finder, evidently.

Surprisingly, shooters also have a lot to say about the 1080p HD video recording and photos this scope offers. Additionally, they like being able to stream to Wi-Fi. If you want to be able to share your hunting and field adventures with others, then this is a great option for you. With the Recoil Activated Video (RAV) and 1080p streaming, your next hunting trip undeniably will be the hit of your next get-together.

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ATN ThOR 4, 384×288, Thermal Rifle Scope 

Our eighth and final pick is another ATN ThOR Smart Thermal Rifle Scope. The ATN ThOR 4 offers an ultra-sensitive next-generation sensor. In other words, the sensor captures a full range of images that are clear, crisp, and at high resolution. Moreover, gradations are nice and smooth despite low light levels. Additionally, the scope has a ballistic calculator that facilitates more accurate shots. In other words, it incorporates wind, range, the angle to the target, and even humidity and temperature to see where the point of impact will be.

This scope offers good overall fit and finish that certainly will serve any shooter well. Overall, it’s a good scope for the money that has a great mix of features. 

Features

This scope has several features that make it a great choice. Firstly, it offers dual stream video recording. In other words, the scope can stream in high definition to a mobile device at the same time it is recording to its internal SD memory card. Coupled with the Recoil Activated Video (RAV), this makes the scope an impressive performer for recording and transmitting video and pictures. If you want to share your hunting or tactical adventures, then this scope is the one that will help you do that. This scope features a very low power profile, too. If you’re in the field or engaged in an extended operation and don’t want to worry about your batteries running dry, then this scope makes a good choice.

The heart of this scope, and what makes it a great thermal scope for the money, is its ultrasensitive thermal sensor. Compared to other, similar scopes, this one offers a better and more complex picture. By the same token, the ballistic calculator allows hunters to choose their shots more carefully while balancing multiple factors that can affect performance. The dual stream video recording is likewise a great solution to an issue that many customers wanted solved.

What users think

Users of this scope have a lot to say about it. First of all, shooters who use the ThOR 4 praise its incredibly sensitive fourth generation thermal sensor. Moreover, they really like the options the ballistic calculator offers (as well as the factors it considers). Most of all, they are delighted by the dual streaming video option, which they have asked for in the past. They’re also very happy with the quick-detach scope mount and the available remote control. Secondly, shooters who have selected this scope like the available remote control and external battery pack. In other words, recharging is quick and easy, even in the field.

Over and over again, shooters who have selected the ThOR 4 call it a good value for the price point. With available IOS and Android apps, the scope, it’s range finder, and its ballistic calculator make a great package. By the same token, the scope has image stabilization that makes it an even better bet. At the same time, the low power profile makes it a good choice in any case.

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Buying the Best Thermal Scope for the Money

Buying the best thermal scope at any price point doesn’t have to be hard. As a matter of fact, our handy guide makes picking a scope easy. As long as you keep in mind the best process for buying a scope, you’ll be okay. Firstly, look at what you want your scope to do. At the same time, ask yourself what type of performance demands you’ll be putting on that scope. Most importantly, consider the context in which you’ll be doing your shooting. In other words, what special conditions might affect your shooting and your use of a scope?

Secondly, consider your budget carefully. At the same time, make sure you allow enough money to buy a quality thermal scope. In other words, you can try to peg the price too low just as you might make the price too high. Most importantly, you want to choose the scope price point that serves your budget while giving you a quality piece of equipment. Thirdly, be sure to do some comparison shopping. In other words, don’t just buy the first scope that fits your price range. Lastly, buy from a reputable seller only.

Every Scope is Different.

What is the best thermal scope for you? From time to time, any scope will do. The first thing to remember is that gear alone does not make a good shooter. At the same time, a great shooter cannot do his or her best without a quality piece of equipment. In other words, your scope is an extension of your shooting skills. Quality tools make all the difference. At the same time, we recognize that not everyone has the same price range. Moreover, what is very expensive for some shooters is not that much money to other shooters.  In other words, everybody is different.

In due time, you will understand what sort of shooter you are. The first thing to remember is that you can be whatever type of shooter you choose to be. Your thermal scope, therefore, should be the method whereby you hone your edge. In the final analysis, every thermal scope is just a tool in the shooter’s hands. So far, we’ve assumed that you are on board with this concept. As a result, we hope you’ll choose the scope that best serves your needs.

Without a doubt, different shooters look at each scope in a different way. For one thing, the key feature that matters most to one person may not be the most important feature to another. Overall fit, finish, and quality are fairly universal. Every shooter basically wants the best quality at the best price. Significantly different scopes can exist in the same price range. This is unquestionably true. What matters is that you find the scope, obviously, that fits you as a human being. This is the key point.

Finding the Best Thermal Scope for the Money Doesn’t Have to be Difficult

In the final analysis, the right thermal scope is the one that suits your needs. There are some simple steps, meanwhile, to start shopping for a thermal scope. Firstly, ask yourself what your scope will be used to do. In other words, will you be using it for hunting, for tactical operations, or for something else? At the same time, ask yourself what performance demands you’ll put on the scope. In other words, if you’re going to use it hard, then it has to be a durable model. Most importantly, you should always purchase quality gear.

Secondly, consider the features that matter most. In other words, are there things your scope must have? In other words, consider if what you are buying will actually meet your needs. Finally, shop only from reputable online or brick-and-mortar sellers. Most importantly, choose a sales outlet that offers competitive pricing. The accessories that come with your scope are equally important. For one thing, factor in those extras when considering the price point.

A great thermal scope can improve your shooting without a doubt!