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Thermal Rifle Scope Buying Guide for Hunting and Vermin Control
When selecting a thermal rifle scope for hunting or vermin control, key features will significantly influence its performance and usability. This guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you choose the best thermal scope for your needs.
Thermal Sensor Resolutions
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160x192:
- Overview: Entry-level resolution for close-range detection (50-100m). It reveals basic heat signatures, useful for spotting larger targets but lacks finer detail.
- Best For: Short-range hunting or simple detection on a budget.
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256x192:
- Overview: Provides enhanced clarity over 160x192, making it suitable for detecting heat sources at moderate ranges (up to 250m) while keeping costs reasonable.
- Best For: Short to mid-range hunting, vermin control, and general scouting.
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384x288:
- Overview: Popular for general hunting needs, offering a balance of price and image clarity. Can help identify animals at medium ranges.
- Best For: Medium-range hunting, tracking, and outdoor use.
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640x480:
- Overview: Higher resolution with better detail, allowing identification at greater distances. Produces smoother, clearer images for more accurate target identification.
- Best For: Long-range detection and precision observation for hunters.
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640x512:
- Overview: Similar to 640x480 but with an extended vertical view for a more complete thermal picture.
- Best For: Professional hunting and applications that require detailed, wide-field imaging.
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1024x768 and 1280x1080:
- Overview: Ultra-high resolutions for professional-grade use, offering exceptional detail and clarity at long ranges.
- Best For: Specialized, high-end hunting applications where precision is critical.
Importance of Pixel Pitch in Thermal Rifle Scopes
- 17µm Pixel Pitch: Provides clear imaging suitable for general hunting and observation, balancing detail with cost.
- 12µm Pixel Pitch: Higher density of pixels in the same sensor size improves clarity and target identification at longer ranges. Ideal for demanding conditions, making it valuable for professional hunting.
For example, a 640x512 resolution scope with a 12µm pitch will show more detail than one with a 17µm pitch, offering a tactical advantage in identifying and engaging distant targets.
NETD (Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference)
Lower NETD values enhance a scope’s sensitivity to temperature changes, resulting in sharper images, even in fog or rain. Here's how different NETD values impact scope performance:
- <15mK: Exceptional sensitivity, suitable for adverse weather and low-contrast situations.
- <18mK: Superior sensitivity, ideal for clear images in demanding conditions.
- <20mK: Excellent for long-range hunting in challenging weather.
- <25mK: High sensitivity, reliable in most conditions but less effective in dense fog.
- <35mK: Great sensitivity for typical hunting and scouting.
- <40mK: Good sensitivity for typical hunting and scouting.
Devices like the HIKMICRO Stellar 3.0 SQ50L are equipped with an exceptionally low NETD value of 15mK this provides high resolution crystal clear images in all weather conditions including rain and fog.
Other Specifications and Features to Consider
Objective Aperture (F-Number)
A lower F-number, such as F1.0, enhances thermal detection capability, resulting in clearer imaging across various conditions. For instance, an F1.0 aperture outperforms an F1.2 by allowing more heat to reach the sensor, thereby producing a sharper thermal image.
Focal Length
The focal length, measured as the distance from the lens to the sensor (e.g., 35mm, 50mm), plays a crucial role in determining both the field of view (FOV) and the detection range of a thermal scope. Generally, a longer focal length, such as 50mm, results in a narrower FOV while extending the detection distance. Conversely, shorter focal lengths, like 25mm, provide a wider FOV that is better suited for detecting targets over a larger area at closer ranges.
It's important to note that the focal length also influences magnification, depending on the paired thermal sensor. For instance, a 50mm thermal scope with a 384x288 resolution will typically exhibit a higher base magnification compared to a 35mm scope with the same resolution. However, when comparing a 50mm scope with a 640x512 resolution to a 35mm scope with a 384x288 resolution, the 50mm may have a lower base magnification. This highlights that, in general, a higher resolution sensor will yield a lower base magnification than its lower resolution counterpart.
Laser Rangefinder (LRF):
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- With LRF: Offers accurate distance measurement, aiding in precise target tracking.
- Without LRF: Focuses purely on thermal imaging, often at a lower cost.
Price Range:
Higher resolutions, better NETD values, and additional features like LRF generally increase price.
Manufacturer’s Image Processing Algorithms:
Processing algorithms and firmware significantly impact the sharpness and clarity of thermal images. Advanced algorithms enhance low-contrast details, temperature differentiation, and reduce noise. Look for manufacturers known for quality processing, such as HIKMICRO, Pulsar or NOCPIX
Display and User Interface in Thermal Rifle Scopes
Display Type (AMOLED/OLED): High-contrast displays such as AMOLED and OLED provide deep blacks and bright colors, improving thermal detection quality.
Display Shape and Size: Some rifle scopes use circular displays that mimic a traditional scope’s field of view, which many hunters find intuitive.
HUD and Menu Systems: Established manufacturers offer refined HUDs that show vital information without cluttering the image, while intuitive menu layouts improve user experience during high-stakes hunting situations. Look for systems with easy navigation and quick-access settings for adjustments in the field.
By understanding these features, you’ll be equipped to choose a thermal rifle scope that aligns with your hunting and vermin control requirements, providing effective, reliable performance tailored to your conditions.
Thermal Rifle Scope Options Per Resolution
256x192 Resolution: Entry-Level Resolution
Description: Basic resolution for close-range and entry-level thermal imaging applications.
Best For: Standard hunting and budget-friendly thermal scope applications.
Products:
- DNT Optics TNC225R ThermNight Thermal & Night Vision Multispectral Scope with LRF & Ballistic Calculator
Price: £999.95 | Focal Length: 25mm | Sensor: 256x192 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: 25mK | SKU: TNC225R
LRF: Yes - IRAY TUBE TP25 SE 256x192 12um <25mk Thermal Rifle Scope
Price: £899.00 | Focal Length: 25mm | Sensor: 256x192 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: 25mK | SKU: IR-TH-RIF-030
LRF: Non-LRF - HIKMICRO Thunder 2.0 19mm Riflescope
Price: £999.99 | Focal Length: 19mm | Sensor: 256x192 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: <35mK | SKU: HM-TE192.0
LRF: Non-LRF
384x288 Resolution: Standard Resolution
Description: Practical resolution suitable for mid-range applications, offering clear thermal imaging without the higher costs of advanced resolutions.
Best For: Basic to intermediate hunting and observation.
Products:
- Pulsar TALION XQ35 PRO (Weaver U Mount) Thermal Rifle Scope
Price: £1,989.95 | Focal Length: 35mm | Sensor: 384x288 | Pixel Pitch: 17µm | NETD: <25mK | SKU: PUL-76566U
LRF: Non-LRF - Pulsar THERMION 2 XQ35 PRO Thermal Rifle Scope
Price: £2,199.95 | Focal Length: 35mm | Sensor: 384x288 | Pixel Pitch: 17µm | NETD: <25mK | SKU: PUL-76541
LRF: Non-LRF - Pulsar THERMION 2 XQ50 PRO Thermal Rifle Scope
Price: £2,399.95 | Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 384x288 | Pixel Pitch: 17µm | NETD: <25mK | SKU: PUL-76548
LRF: Non-LRF - NocPix Ace L35 Thermal Rifle Scope
Price: £1,859.00 | Focal Length: 35mm | Sensor: 384x288 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: 18mK | SKU: NPRIF-ACE-L35
LRF: Non-LRF - HIKMICRO Stellar 50mm (SH50)
Price: £1,999.99 | Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 384x288 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: 35mK | SKU: HM-SH50
LRF: Non-LRF - HIKMICRO Stellar 50mm with LRF & Ballistic Calculator
Price: £2,399.99 | Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 384x288 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: 15mK | SKU: HM-SH50L3.0
LRF: Yes
640x480 & 640x512 Resolution: High Resolution
Description: Provides improved detail and detection, suited for professional applications and mid-range imaging.
Best For: Advanced hunting and observation.
Products:
- Pulsar TALION XG35 (Weaver U Mount) Thermal Rifle Scope
Price: £2,979.95 | Focal Length: 35mm | Sensor: 640x480 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: <40mK | SKU: PUL-76563U
LRF: Non-LRF - Pulsar THERMION 2 XG50 Thermal Rifle Scope
Price: £3,199.95 | Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 640x480 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: <40mK | SKU: PUL-76549
LRF: Non-LRF - Pulsar THERMION 2 XG50 Thermal LRF Rifle Scope
Price: £3,999.95 | Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 640x480 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: <40mK | SKU: PUL-76554
LRF: LRF - Pulsar THERMION 2 XP50 Thermal Rifle Scope
Price: £3,699.95 | Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 640x480 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: <25mK | SKU: PUL-76547
LRF: Non-LRF - Pulsar THERMION 2 XP50 Thermal LRF Rifle Scope
Price: £4,299.95 | Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 640x480 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: <25mK | SKU: PUL-76551
LRF: LRF - Pulsar THERMION DUO 2 XP50 Thermal Mutli Spectral 4k 2-16x Rifle Scope
Price: £3,589.95| Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 640x480 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: <25mK | SKU: PUL-76571
LRF: Non-LRF - Pulsar THERMION DUO 2 XP55 Thermal Mutli Spectral 4k 4-32x Rifle Scope
Price: £3,679.95| Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 640x480 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: <25mK | SKU: PUL-76572
LRF: Non-LRF - NocPix Ace H50 Thermal Rifle Scope
Price: £3,189.00 | Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 640x512 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: 15mK | SKU: NPRIF-ACE-H50
LRF: Non-LRF - NocPix Ace H50R Thermal Rifle Scope with LRF
Price: £3,579.00 | Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 640x512 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: 15mK | SKU: NPRIF-ACE-H50R
LRF: Yes - HIKMICRO Stellar Pro 50mm (SQ50)
Price: £2,999.99 | Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 640x512 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: 20mK | SKU: HM-SQ50-2.0
LRF: Non-LRF - HIKMICRO Stellar Pro 50mm with LRF & Ballistic Calculator
Price: £3,599.99 | Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 640x512 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: 15mK | SKU: HM-SQ50L3.0
LRF: Yes - HIKMICRO Thunder Pro 2.0 50mm Riflescope
Price: £2,499.99 | Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 640x512 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: <20mK | SKU: HM-TQ502.0
LRF: Non-LRF - HIKMICRO Thunder Pro Zoom 2.0 (35mm-60mm)
Price: £3,599.99 | Focal Length: 35mm-60mm | Sensor: 640x512 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: <20mK | SKU: HM-TQ60Z2.0
LRF: Non-LRF
1024x768 Resolution: Ultra-High Resolution
Description: Delivers fine, precise thermal imaging for users who need high clarity at long range.
Best For: Long-range applications and professional-grade imaging.
Products:
- Pulsar THERMION 2 LRF XL50 Thermal Rifle Scope
Price: £5,499.95 | Focal Length: 50mm | Sensor: 1024x768 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: <35mK | SKU: PUL-76557
LRF: Yes
1280x1024 Resolution: Professional-Grade Resolution
Description: Exceptional detail and long-distance clarity for specialized professional use.
Best For: High-end applications requiring precision in challenging conditions.
Products:
- NocPix Ace H60R Thermal Rifle Scope with LRF
Price: £5,399.00 | Focal Length: 60mm | Sensor: 1280x1024 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: 15mK | SKU: NPRIF-ACE-S60R
LRF: Yes - HIKMICRO Stellar Pro 60mm with LRF & Ballistic Calculation
Price: £4,999.99 | Focal Length: 60mm | Sensor: 1280x1080 | Pixel Pitch: 12µm | NETD: 18mK | SKU: HM-SX60L3.0
LRF: Yes
If you are still confused in which Thermal Rifle Scope will be the best choice for you please email us on support@opticswarehouse.co.uk or phone us on 01803 611895.
PLEASE NOTE : Thermal Rifle Scope prices can change very quickly so please always call us for the best and most up to date pricing.