13 Best Thermal Scopes (Complete List)

Are you looking to pick up a thermal scope and wondering which is the best thermal scope to buy?

There is a lot to choose from, and the price range varies. These aren’t cheap, so you want to ensure you get the perfect one and don’t waste money.

Keep reading to find the best thermal scope for you and your needs.

This article will cover the best thermal scopes available on the market. 

Best Budget Thermal Scope

Best Budget

ATN ThOR LT

• 3 – 6x Magnification
• 160 x 120 Sensor Resolution
• 1280 x 720 Display Resolution
• One shot zero
• Weather resistant
• Affordable

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet, ATN Corp, Amazon

The ATN Thor LT is the most popular thermal scope and the best budget option. Perfect for people just starting out with thermal optics.

Best Value Thermal Scope

Best Value

Pulsar Thermion 2

• 640×480 microbolometer resolution
• 1024×768 AMOLED Display Detects heat signatures up to 2,000 yards away
• 2x-16x magnification
• Built-in photo and video recording
• Included laser rangefinder with an 875-yard range

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet, Amazon, Cabela’s

The Pulsar Thermion 2 is a great all-around thermal scope that has the perfect price-to-performance features.

Best Premium Thermal Scope

Best premium

Trijicon REAP-IR

• 640×480 resolution – 4 times as many pixels as competing 320 systems
• 12-micron pixel pitch – smaller footprint than competing 17-micron systems
• 60 Hz Frame rate – improved clarity for moving images
• New manual focus adjustment
• Improved digital thumbstick provides faster system response
• A New USB-C port allows the use of external power sources

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet, Palmetto State Armory

One of the best thermal scopes that has been tried and true is the Trijicon REAP-IR. These units have been fielded by many different military units.

Next Level Thermal Scope

next level

InfiRay Outdoor Rico HD

• Thermal Sensor 1080 x 1024
• 2560 x2560 Display Resolution
• 2 – 16x Magnification
• 3600-yard detection range
• High-definition sensor and resolution
• The best money can buy

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet

The cutting-edge thermal scope that pushes the limits of technology is the InfiRay Outdoor Rico HD. Best of the best but also insanely expensive.

Thermal Scope Criteria

The main things to consider when deciding which unit to use are the thermal sensor, magnification, and price.

These devices are mainly applied to outdoor scenarios such as patrolling, law enforcement, search and rescue, drug enforcement, anti-smuggling, hiking, travel, and hunting. They are also just flat-out cool and a lot of fun.

If you are interested in night vision options, check out my Best Night Vision Goggles & Devices post.

Thermal Sensor

The thermal sensor is the heart of any handheld thermal scope. This will determine the quality of the image and how much heat is detected. The higher the sensor’s pixel density, the better the thermal image you will see.

Here are the common pixel densities: entry-level, mid-range, and high-end.

1. 160×120
2. 384×288
3. 640×480

With most things in life, you get what you pay for. Thermal scope optic technology is not cheap, and I always recommend purchasing products that are high quality and will last.

Magnification

All of the thermal scopes mentioned below have different levels of magnification. Depending on your intended use, you will have different magnification needs.

Some are on a fixed 3x, while most are adjustable and go all the way to 40x magnification.

Also, if you don’t need a lot of magnification, you can invest in a thermal scope with better sensors and features.

This will improve the image quality, and you can have better image recording with other features.

Price

The cost of thermal scopes is the biggest barrier to entry. You get what you pay for, and because of how advanced the technology is, you will have to pay a lot.

There are some budget options, but I recommend getting something of high quality and budgeting to spend a significant amount.

Don’t waste money if you are at your local gun store and see a cheap thermal scope. If you don’t have enough saved up, be patient and keep saving until you are ready to buy.

If you are looking for a thermal monocular, check out my 13 Best Thermal Monoculars article that covers them in detail.

Best Thermal Scopes

Here is the list of the best thermal scopes that I recommend. All these are good options, and you can’t go wrong with them.

Basically comes down to which features you want and how much you are willing to spend.

1. ATN ThOR LT 3-6x50mm

The ATN ThOR LT 3-6x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope reveals every detail of your target with the 1280x720p HD display in either Black-hot or White-hot mode that comes standard in every one of these thermal imaging scopes.

The one-shot zero feature makes adjustments in the field a breeze, and this optic is incredibly easy to mount on 30mm standard rings.

This ATN ThOR LT Ultra Light Thermal Rifle Scope knows how to conserve energy, offering 10+ hours of continuous battery power to cover the duration of your entire hunt.

With a weather-resistant IP rating and hardened aluminum alloy construction, this scope is prepared to face adverse weather conditions and the severe recoil your firearm produces.

Another benefit of having such a lightweight optic is that you can place it on crossbows, air rifles, or other weapons that might not be able to handle the heavier weights on their mounting platforms.

The ATN OPMOD THOR LT comes with a NEW reticle not found in any other model of ATN THOR.

It features the acclaimed 68 MOA circle dot reticle, widely known as the world’s fastest! Along with speed comes intuitive ranging capabilities. For instance, the 68 MOA circle is the approximate height of a person standing when they are 100 yards away, and at 200 yards, the person fills only the lower half.

For deer and similarly sized game with approximately 16″ back/chest height, the reticle touches the top and the bottom of the 68MOA circle, and at 50 yards, from the center aiming point to the bottom of the circle.

At 100 yards, the animal’s body covers the lower 1/4 of the reticle. This makes the reticle perfect for hunting day or night!

Specs:

Features:

• Black Hot / White Hot viewing modes
• One shot zero
• Easy-to-use User Interface
• Weather resistant
• Recoil resistant
• Can be mounted onto crossbows, air rifles, and other platforms due to lightweight construction
• ATN Obsidian Core LT
• 3D Accelerometer
• Multiple reticle patterns
• Multiple reticle colors
• Mounts using 30mm Standard Rings

Best Budget

ATN ThOR LT

• 3 – 6x Magnification
• 160 x 120 Sensor Resolution
• 1280 x 720 Display Resolution
• One shot zero
• Weather resistant
• Affordable

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet

2. AGM Global Vision Rattler TS35-384 2-16x35mm

The AGM Rattler TS35-384 is a compact thermal imaging scope developed for 24-hour operation under any weather and environmental conditions.

Two objective lens options allow the customer to choose the perfect unit for their needs where a 25 mm lens is designed for short-range shooting, while the 35 mm lens model will be great for medium-range missions.

Thermal image riflescope has a 384 x 288 thermal detector and 1024 x 768 OLED monitor, which provides clear images under harsh environmental conditions like darkness, fog, smoke, dust, rain, snow, wood, camouflage, etc.

The device is used as a thermal rifle scope or handheld monocular. The scope is mainly applied to scenarios such as patrolling, hunting, etc.

Powered with two CR123 batteries the AGM Rattler TS-384 gives up to 4.5 hours of continuous operation time.

An external 5V power bank (battery pack) can be easily connected via a USB connector for a significant increase in operating time. Onboard Wi-Fi modules for live video streaming and video/image recording via application are also available.

Specs:

Features:

• 384 x 288 thermal resolution, high-sensitivity detector
• Image processing technology: Adaptive AGC, DDE, 3D DNR
• 1024 x 768 resolution 0.39-inch OLED display
• 8x digital zoom
• Video recording and snapshot, built-in EMMC (16 GB)
• Supports distance measurement
• Adjustable color palettes
• Wi-Fi data transmission
• Waterproof, shockproof
• Up to 4.5 hours of continuous working
• External power supply capability
• Limited 3-year warranty

AGM Global Vision Rattler TS35-384

• 384 x 288 thermal resolution, high-sensitivity detector
• Image processing technology: Adaptive AGC, DDE, 3D DNR
• 1024 x 768 resolution 0.39-inch OLED display
• 8x digital zoom

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet

3. ATN ThOR 4 4.5-18x50mm Smart HD

Improved more than ever, the ATN ThOR 4 4.5-18x50mm Thermal Vision Smart HD Rifle Scope includes 4th Generation dual core thermal sensor technology.

These Thermal Imaging Scopes bring reliable features from past models, adding an integrated laser range finder and the ability to record and stream video simultaneously.

With new developments in dual-core thermal sensor technology, ATN is proud to provide this 4th generation of Smart HD Thermal Rifle Scope at incomparably low prices.

This new line of thermal scopes combines the classic features that set ATN apart from the competition with new abilities unique to this line.

These scopes combine aspects like recoil-activated video, a one-shot zero, and ultra-low power consumption with new tools like a built-in laser range finder, dual-stream video (record and stream at the same time), and a new ultra-sensitive next-generation thermal sensor which lets you view and record at never before seen high resolution.

In addition, the ThOR 4 series of thermal scope features a suite of applications like a built-in ballistics calculator, and it features recoil-resistant components and an expandable MicroSD slot that lets you record up to 256 gigabytes of photos and video on your device, all within the classic ergonomic ThOR series build.

Specs:

Features:

• Ultra-sensitive Gen 4 384×288 Thermal Sensor
• Record Video on to a MicroSD card
• Smart Shooting Solution
• Wifi (Streaming, Gallery & Controls) and Bluetooth 4.1 compatible with iOS and Android
• Recoil Activated Video
• Smart Range Finder
• Ballistic Calculator
• Profile Manager
• 3D GS7 Gyroscope
• 3D Accelerometer
• 3D Magnetometer
• E-Compass
• Smooth Zoom
• GPS for geotagging and tracking elevation
• 3-Year Limited Warranty

ATN ThOR 4 4.5-18x50mm Smart HD

• Ultra-sensitive Gen 4 384×288 Thermal Sensor
• Record Video on to a MicroSD card
• Smart Shooting Solution
• Wifi (Streaming, Gallery & Controls) and Bluetooth 4.1 compatible with iOS and Android
• Recoil Activated Video

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet, ATN Corp, GunMag Warehouse, Scheels, Amazon

4. Armasight Contractor 320 3-12X

The Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x Thermal Weapon Sight is built around the proprietary ArmaCORE 12-micron thermal core.

It combines extensive detection capabilities and a rich, detailed picture with onboard image processing, wireless communication interface, GPS, and internal memory.

The Contractor Thermal Weapon Sight is a premium-component build that is noticeably more compact and lighter than conventional thermal scopes.

It provides up to four hours of continuous operation on two CR123 batteries- a 50% longer run-time- based on lower power consumption compared to similar units on the market.

The Contractor series also offers another first; the turret system that enables users to navigate features such as digital zoom, color palette, and reticles to quickly and intuitively adapt to changing conditions and environments.

The units come equipped with a digital compass and inclinometer that help calculate distance, direction, and angles. The Contractor is MIL-STD compliant-allowing for reliable use in all weather conditions.

Specs:

Features:

• ArmaCORE™ 320×240 12um Thermal Core Detector;
• Multiple color palettes;
• Intuitive menus with turret controls;
• 8+ Reticle Types;
• Image Detail Enhancement;
• 1/2MOA Boresight;
• Video Recording & Image Capture;
• USB Video Stream;
• Wi-Fi Video Stream;
• Bluetooth 5.0 Capabilities;
• Application on iOS / Android devices
• USB-C Interface for External Devices;
• Integrated Stadiametric Rangefinder;
• Inclinometer & Levelometer;
• Graphic Compass;
• Angle Cosine & Battery Status Indicator;
• Reticle ON/OFF Selection;
• Alloy Metal Body and Ergonomic Design

Armasight Contractor 320 3-12X

• ArmaCORE 320×240 12um Thermal Core Detector
• Multiple color palettes
• Intuitive menus with turret controls
• 8+ Reticle Types
• Image Detail Enhancement
• 1/2MOA Boresight

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet, Amazon

5. ATN ThOR 4 4-40x75mm Smart HD

This is the big brother higher magnification model of the ATN ThOR 4. This is the ATN ThOR 4 4-40x75mm Smart HD. The objective size is also larger, giving you a wider field of view.

The Next Generation of Thermal Sensors is here and powered by ATN’s Obsidian IV Dual core.

Higher thermal sensitivity, improved contrasts, near silent shutter, and improved resolution make the new ATN ThOR 4 Smart Thermal Riflescope the sight to own.

Easy to use and quick to learn, but with all the features you have come to expect from an ATN Smart scope.

The ThOR 4 looks and feels just like your more traditional optic. Standard mounting rings. Long eye-relief.

Easy to pick up the Thermal signature of hidden targets and fast viewing.

Specs:

Features:

• Ultra-sensitive Gen 4 640×480 Thermal Sensor
• Records Video onto a MicroSD card
• Smart Shooting Solution
• Wifi (Streaming, Gallery & Controls) and Bluetooth 4.1 compatible with iOS and Android
• Recoil Activated Video
• Smart Range Finder
• Ballistic Calculator
• Profile Manager
• 3D GS7 Gyroscope
• 3D Accelerometer
• 3D Magnetometer
• E-Compass
• Smooth Zoom
• GPS for geotagging and tracking elevation
• 3-Year Limited Warranty

ATN ThOR 4 4-40x75mm Smart HD

• Ultra-sensitive Gen 4 640×480 Thermal Sensor
• Records Video onto a MicroSD card Smart
• Shooting Solution Wifi (Streaming, Gallery & Controls) and Bluetooth 4.1 compatible with iOS and Android
• Recoil Activated Video Smart Range Finder Ballistic Calculator

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet, Amazon, ATN Corp, GunMag Warehouse, Palmetto State Armory, Scheels

6. Armasight Contractor 320 6-24X

The Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x is the higher magnification version thermal weapon sight built around the proprietary ArmaCOR 12-micron thermal core.

It combines extensive detection capabilities and a rich, detailed picture with onboard image processing, wireless communication interface, GPS, and internal memory.

The Contractor Thermal Weapon Sight is a premium-component build that is noticeably more compact and lighter than conventional thermal scopes.

It provides up to four hours of continuous operation on two CR123 batteries- a 50% longer run-time- based on lower power consumption compared to similar units on the market.

The Contractor series also offers another first; the turret system that enables users to navigate features such as digital zoom, color palette, and reticles to quickly and intuitively adapt to changing conditions and environments.

The units come equipped with a digital compass and inclinometer that help calculate distance, direction, and angles.

Specs:

Features:

• Multiple color palettes
• Intuitive menus with turret controls
• 8+ Reticle Types
• 4 hours runtime at 20° C
• Image Detail Enhancement
• 1/2MOA Boresight
• Standard Picatinny Mount Included
• Video Recording & Image Capture
• USB Video Stream
• Wi-Fi Video Stream
• Bluetooth 5.0 Capabilities
• Application on iOS / Android devices
• USB-C Interface for External Devices
• Integrated Stadiametric Rangefinder
• Inclinometer
• Levelometer
• Graphic Compass
• Angle Cosine Indicator
• Reticle ON/OFF Selection
• Battery Status Indicator
• Alloy Metal Body and Ergonomic Design

Armasight Contractor 320 6-24X

• Multiple color palettes
• Intuitive menus with turret controls
• 8+ Reticle Types 4 hours runtime at 20° C
• Image Detail Enhancement
• 1/2MOA Boresight
• USB Video Stream
• Wi-Fi Video Stream

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet

7. Pulsar Thermion XG50 3-24x42mm

The Pulsar Thermion XG50 3-24x42mm thermal Rifle Scope surpasses every demand of the modern shooter.

Combining 640×480 microbolometer strength with 12-micron pixel detail, the XG50 delivers a 2,400-yard thermal detection range in stunning clarity on a 1024×768 AMOLED display.

The XG50 boasts 8x digital zoom and Picture-in-Picture to accommodate varmint, hog, or big-game hunters in virtually any environment.

Featuring the highly-sought BAE sensor with color palettes and built-in recording with audio, users are assured their memories are captured and preserved.

With Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with the Stream Vision App, recoil activation, five rifle profiles, 13 variable electronic reticles, and a one-shot zeroing freeze function, the XG50 is one of the best thermal optics on the market.

Specs:

Features:

• 640×480 resolution – 12m pixel pitch sensor
• 2400 yd detection range
• 8x digital zoom – continuous zoom and 2x/4x/8x stepped zoom
• Picture-in-picture digital zoom
• Stream Vision app connects scope to a smart device
• External power supply adaptable
• 5 rifle profiles with 50 zero saves
• 13 variable electronic reticles
• One-shot zeroing with freeze function
• Color viewing modes
• High-resolution AMOLED display
• Stadiametric rangefinder
• Rock/forest identification viewing modes
• Manual/automatic/semi-automatic calibration modes
• Defective pixel repair feature

Pulsar Thermion XG50 3-24x42mm

• 640×480 resolution – 12m pixel pitch sensor
• 2400 yd detection range
• 8x digital zoom – continuous zoom and 2x/4x/8x stepped zoom
• Picture-in-picture digital zoom
• Stream Vision app connects scope to a smart device

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet

8. Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro 2-16x

The Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50 PRO 2-16x is a potent thermal imaging riflescope that combines a classic, sleek design with a built-in laser rangefinder.

Its extremely powerful 640×480 microbolometer resolution detects heat signatures up to 2,000 yards and displays them on a crisp 1024×768 AMOLED display.

With an impressive 10 hours of battery life, this thermal riflescope boasts high-precision, ambidextrous lens focusing and a variable magnification of 2x-16x.

The included laser rangefinder has a range of up to 875 yards, helping to illuminate and locate various targets.

Technologically advanced, the Thermion 2 LRF XP50 PRO boasts built-in photo and video recording, and it has Wi-Fi connectivity to upload data to the Stream Vision 2 App.

Further, the Thermion 2 LRF XP50 PRO can withstand calibers from 12 gauge, 9.3×64, and .375 H&H, and it is rated IPX7 completely waterproof so that you can use it in the harshest of weather conditions.

It features 10 reticle shapes in 9 color modes, Picture-in-Picture mode, and 5 unique shooting profiles.

Specs:

Features:

• 640×480 microbolometer resolution
• 1024×768 AMOLED Display
• Detects heat signatures up to 2,000 yards away
• 2x-16x magnification
• Built-in photo and video recording
• Included laser rangefinder with an 875-yard range
• Wi-Fi connectivity and supported by Stream Vision 2 App
• IPX7 Fully Waterproof
• 10 reticle shapes in 9 colors
• Picture-in-Picture mode
• 5 unique shooting profiles
• Withstands calibers including 12 gauge, 9.3×64, and .375 H&H

Best Value

Pulsar Thermion 2

• 640×480 microbolometer resolution
• 1024×768 AMOLED Display Detects heat signatures up to 2,000 yards away
• 2x-16x magnification
• Built-in photo and video recording
• Included laser rangefinder with an 875-yard range

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet, Amazon, Cabela’s

9. iRayUSA Rico Alpha 640 3x50mm

The iRayUSA Rico Alpha 640 3x50mm is the culmination of decades of user feedback, research, development, and American engineering, all embedded in a thermal weapon sight that is purpose-built for the discerning night hunter.

The RICO Series was built to make the best image possible and be easy to use.

The heart of the RICO Series features a high-performance stay Micro II core and an extremely high contrast AMOLED HD display. RICO takes its image processing one step further with Advanced Image Correction and Automatic Image Optimization courtesy of the MATRIX III image algorithm.

Unmatched image quality paired with an intuitive and easy-to-use interface, picture-in-picture picture function, 6-hour run time, 1000 G shock resistance, and 32 Gb of internal memory gives you all the tools you need to take your hunt to the next level.

The RICO Mk1 series sets itself apart with iRay’s incredibly powerful MATRIX III image processing algorithm.

The system is optically and electronically optimized and produces an image that pushes the boundaries of log-wave infrared image clarity.

​A high quality and efficient li-ion 3.7 V, 4400 mAh battery pack operates the Mk1 for a minimum of 6 hours and up to 10 hours on standby.

The battery can be quickly removed and replaced with a new one with external power connected to the magnetic USB-C connector if you don’t want to power it off.

Specs:

Features:

• 640 Resolution
• 12 Micron
• 3x Magnification
• 50 HZ Refresh Rate
• Rechargeable/Removeable Battery
• Internal Video
• Multiple Color Palettes
• Multiple Reticle Options

iRayUSA Rico Alpha 640 3x50mm

• 640 Resolution
• 12 Micron
• 3x Magnification
• 50 HZ Refresh Rate
• Rechargeable/Removeable Battery
• Internal Video

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet, GunMag Warehouse, GrabAGun

10. N-Vision Optics HALO-XRF 1-8x50mm

The N-Vision HALO-XRF 1-8x50mm is the latest groundbreaking product that combines state-of-the-art BAE thermal imaging CORE with top customer-demanded features, such as an integrated laser range finder, onboard video recording, and WiFi connectivity.

HALO-XRF is proudly designed and built in the USA, making it the ultimate US-made thermal scope with integrated LRF available to the hunting market.

This thermal optic eliminates the need for external recorders. Pixel accurate 60 Hz videos are internally captured and stored for later transfer to the user’s PC via USB connection.

The streaming feature permits the user to stream videos over the WiFi connection and possibly broadcast the hunts in real-time to Youtube, Facebook, or any other social media if it is still allowed and available.

It also features a built-in laser range finder of up to 1,000 yards/meters.

It operates on two rechargeable 18650 batteries, providing up to 7 hours of run time (at room temperature).

Reticle movement steps are zoom-dependent, which allows for the most precise zeroing. Eight reticle choices with two Mil-Dot reticles.

Standard USB-C cable is used for user software updates, downloading videos and still images, or powering up the HALO-XRF with an external 5V (USB) power source.

Specs:

Features:

• Built-in Laser Range Finder, Video and Audio Recording
• 8 Reticle Options
• Integrated Laser Range Finder
• Built-in Video and Audio Recording
• Zoom Sensitive Zeroing
• Wifi streaming
• Rechargeable 18650 Batteries

N-Vision Optics HALO-XRF 1-8x50mm

• Built-in Laser Range Finder, Video and Audio Recording
• 8 Reticle Options
• Integrated Laser Range Finder
• Built-in Video and Audio Recording
• Zoom Sensitive Zeroing
• Wifi streaming
• Rechargeable 18650 Batteries

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet, Scheels

11. Trijicon Electro Optics IR PATROL M250XR 4.5-8x60mm

The Trijicon Electro Optics IR PATROL M250XR 4.5-8x60mm Thermal Weapon Sight is a compact yet powerful scope designed specifically for tactical situations.

Trijicon Electro Optics manufactures these Thermal Imaging Scopes from 6061 Aircraft-grade aluminum and uses nitrogen purging for waterproofing.

The Trijicon Electro Optics IR PATROL M250XR Thermal Scope has intuitive, ergonomic controls to put advanced IR technology and 4.5 to 8x magnification in the palm of your hand.

Utilizing some of the very best attainable components and construction, these particular Thermal Vision Rifle Scopes from the product professionals at Trijicon Electro Optics will last an unbelievably long time.

Trijicon Electro Optics has been generating top-quality merchandise for a long time. The Trijicon Electro Optics IR PATROL M250XR 4.5-8x60mm Thermal Weapon Sight demonstrates exactly how much they care.

Specs:

Features:

• Fully ruggedized, weatherproof, multidirectional thumbstick control is large and easy to find in complete darkness.
• Edge Detect Tactical Mode projects a fraction of the brightness of other modes to protect against night blindness caused by light from the screen.
• Maxpol Polarity easy to control polarity mode lets you switch between 3 levels of white hot and 3 levels of black hot displays.
• Helmet Mount Hands Free Observation: Take advantage of the lightweight design and fast, 60 Hz frame-rate system that is optimized for helmet mounting.
• 60mm F/1.25 Objective Lens
• 4.5 Optical Zoom/8x Digital Zoom
• Stadiametric Rangefinder
• Uncooled VOx (Vanadium Oxide) Sensor Type
• Thermal Sensitivity
• Monochrome Digital OLED Display Type
• Digital Contrast Enhancement
• Start-Up Time Approximately 5 Seconds
• Video Output Analog RS-170 (with Optional Cable)
• Storage Temperature Range -45 to +75 C
• Full 640×480 thermal imager
• 12-micron pixel pitch
• Manual user focus control
• 30 Hz and 60 Hz frame rates
• GASIR objective lens
• Tested to MIL-STD-810G methods and procedures
• 6061 Aircraft-grade aluminum package
• Waterproof to 1 meter
• Nitrogen filled
• Intuitive menu system
• Included eye guard
• Handheld or helmet-mounted use
• Includes Wilcox shoe interface for helmet mounting

Trijicon IR PATROL M250XR 4.5-8x60mm

• Full 640×480 thermal imager
• 12-micron pixel pitch
• Manual user focus control
• 30 Hz and 60 Hz frame rates
• GASIR objective lens
• Tested to MIL-STD-810G methods and procedures
• 6061 Aircraft-grade aluminum package

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet

12. Trijicon Electro Optics REAP-IR Type 3 60mm

The Trijicon REAP-IR Type 3 60mm delivers powerful thermal imaging in a compact, easy-to-use package.

The core of the system is the advanced 12-micron thermal image sensor that provides superior image quality in virtually any lighting condition. The 640×480 resolution features four times as many pixels as the competing 320 systems.

The REAP-IR displays sources of heat on three different pallets: black hot, white hot, and edge detect.

Black hot displays heat signatures as black silhouettes over a predominantly white background, white-hot shows heat sources as white silhouettes over a dark background, and edge detect casts an outline around heat sources.

In addition, the REAP-IR features five user-selectable reticle choices: an MRAD-based reticle, an MOA-based reticle, and bullet drop compensation reticles optimized for .223, .308, and .300 Blackout.

The REAP-IR, a versatile and reliable thermal Rifle Scope, combines optimal imaging technology with a rugged design.

Engineered and manufactured to exacting specs in the USA, count on the REAP-IR for long-lasting, world-class performance in harsh conditions.

Specs:

Features:

• 640×480 resolution – 4 times as many pixels as competing for 320 systems
• 12-micron pixel pitch – smaller footprint than competing 17-micron systems
• 60 Hz Frame rate – improved clarity for moving images
• New manual focus adjustment
• Improved digital thumbstick provides faster system response
• A New USB-C port allows the use of external power sources
• Designed, constructed, and tested to MIL-STD-810G

Best premium

Trijicon REAP-IR

• 640×480 resolution – 4 times as many pixels as competing 320 systems
• 12-micron pixel pitch – smaller footprint than competing 17-micron systems
• 60 Hz Frame rate – improved clarity for moving images
• New manual focus adjustment
• Improved digital thumbstick provides faster system response
• A New USB-C port allows the use of external power sources

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet, Palmetto State Armory

13. InfiRay Outdoor Rico HD

If money is no option and you want the absolute best thermal scope available for civilians, the InfiRay Outdoor Rico HD is the one to buy.

I will give you a warning, however, it’s very expensive.

The Rugged Infrared Compact Optic (RICO) HD RS75 is the first commercially available 1280×1024 resolution thermal weapon sight ever created.

You read that right, the legendary thermal image quality produced by a High Definition (1280×1024) thermal sensor is finally commercially available to night hunters in the form of an advanced weapon sight.

The RICO HD RS75 has an incredible 1,310,720 pixels processed by InfiRays proprietary MATRIX III algorithm to create an image so clear, it is almost unbelievable.

The magnification is an adjustable 2 – 16x with a 30 Hz refresh rate. It also has an incredible range detection of up to 3600 yards.

One of the first things you notice when you look through the RICO HD RS75 is the optical clarity. The eyepiece offers edge-to-edge image perfection when paired with the 1.03″ 2560×2560 AMOLED microdisplay.

The RS75’s orthoscopic eyepiece has also been redesigned with premium components specifically selected to achieve low distortion and edge-to-edge clarity. This redesigned eyepiece offers a more forgiving eye box for a more comfortable cheek weld and 60mm of eye relief.

What does it take to unlock the next level of thermal imaging? Four times the resolution of 640 devices, 1,310,720 pixels, a 12-degree horizontal field of view, and a detection range of 3,600 yards make the RICO HD the ultimate thermal weapon sight for any distance.

No longer do night hunters have to sacrifice detection range or field of view, you can have it all in one scope for close-range, mid-range, or longer-range shots.

To get the most out of the first 1280×1024 resolution weapon sight, InfiRay Outdoor built in a suite of best-in-class features including a rail-mounted laser rangefinder and compatibility with a custom reticle generator app. Never before has a weapon sight enabled the skilled shooter to be as accurate at night as they are in daylight conditions, until now!

The RS75 maintains many familiar RICO Mk1 characteristics including a 4-button layout, similar software style and menu functions, and high-speed germanium objective optics.

In addition to the tried and true features of the MK1 line, InfiRay Outdoor added several highly requested features to the RS75 including 128 GB of internal storage space, an upgraded 2560×2560 AMOLED display, an enhanced microphone, a recoil mitigating mount for increased durability.

The RICO HD offers crystal clear onboard audio recording to complement captured videos. Increased audio clarity over previous RICO generations allows you to capture a quiet whisper before the shot or the report of a bullet impact hundreds of yards away.

This device pushes thermal sensor technology to its limits.

Specs:

Features:

• Reticle
• 7 (2 Dynamic, 5 Static) Connector Type
• USB-C Color Palettes
• White Hot, Black Hot, Red Hot, Color, Highlight User-Updatable Firmware
• Yes Mobile App
• Yes Storage Capacity
• 128GB Connector Output
• Power/Data Picture-in-Picture
• Yes One-Shot Zero
• Yes Stand-by Mode
• Yes Rangefinder
• ILR-1000 LRF (Included) Run Time
• 4+, Each Battery Power Source
• IBP-1 Battery Pack X 2, 4+ Hours Each Wifi
• Yes Onboard Recording
• Video and Image Image Capture
• Yes Video Output
• Yes Startup Time
• Under 10 Seconds External Power Source
• USB-C Warranty
• 5 Years Compatible With
• ILR-1000

next level

InfiRay Outdoor Rico HD

• Thermal Sensor 1080 x 1024
• 2560 x2560 Display Resolution
• 2 – 16x Magnification
• 3600-yard detection range
• High-definition sensor and resolution
• The best money can buy

Check Price

Price Check: Optics Planet

Benefits Of Thermal Scopes

A thermal scope is a device that detects temperature differences. Whether you use it during the day or at night, it makes no difference.

If a target is heated to a different temperature than the outside environment, it will be visible through the scope lens.

You can use the thermal sight at dusk or dawn. It is unaffected by glare, unlike classic night vision devices.

The advantage of thermal imaging scopes is that they do not need external light sources. The thermal imaging sensor is sensitive to the radiation of objects.

As a result, these scopes work equally well during the day and at night, even in total darkness.

If you are not ready for a thermal scope and just want to get a standard-style scope for an AR-15, check out my post on the Best LPVO Scopes (Low Power Variable Optics).

Thermal VS Night Vision

To work properly, night vision requires nearby visible light. Thermal imaging doesn’t require any light to work.

Night vision works by amplifying visible light in the immediate vicinity. Thermal imaging uses infrared sensors to detect temperature differences between objects in their line of sight.

Night vision enlarges the light in a scene and converts it to green-tinted images. Heat signatures are translated into clear viewable images by thermal imaging, and objects with higher heat signatures are shown in bright yellow, orange, or red.

Conditions such as dust, smoke, overcast nights, rain, and fog impair night vision. These conditions do not affect thermal imaging, which can see in complete darkness.

Thermal is better than night vision and is becoming better and more affordable every year.

Thermal imaging is a highly sought-after technology that, while more expensive than other options, improves nighttime safety more than its competitors while remaining affordable.

Best Thermal Scope FAQ

Complete List of Items Mentioned

(Click the links for the most up-to-date prices)

• ATN ThOR LT 3-6x50mm 
• AGM Rattler TS35-384 2-16x35mm
• ATN ThOR 4 4.5-18x50mm
• Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x
• ATN ThOR 4 4-40x75mm
• Armasight Contractor 320 6-24x
• Pulsar Thermion XG50 3-24x42mm
• Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50 PRO 2-16x
• iRayUSA Rico Alpha 640 3x50mm
• N-Vision HALO-XRF 1-8x50mm
• Trijicon Electro Optics IR PATROL M250XR 4.5-8x60mm
• Trijicon REAP-IR Type 3 60mm
• InfiRay Outdoor Rico HD

Related Articles Mentioned

• Best Night Vision Goggles & Devices
• 13 Best Thermal Monoculars
• Best LPVO Scopes (Low Power Variable Optics)

Have you ever used a thermal scope?

Which one did you go with?

Let me know in the comments below.