Are you in the market for a thermal scope? If so, you’re in luck – we’ve compiled a list of the best thermal scopes for 2023. In this article, we’ll discuss what to look for when purchasing a thermal scope and then provide our top picks for the year. So whether you’re a hunter, law enforcement officer, or just someone who wants to stay prepared, read on to find the perfect thermal scope for you.
Best Thermal Scopes 2023 Comparison Table
| Photo | Name | Check Price | Brand | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | AGM Global Vision Thermal Scope | Check Price | AGM Global Vision | • OLED display • night vision scope • Adjustable color palettes • Wi-Fi data transmission • Waterproof • shockproof |
 | ATN Thor LT Thermal Rifle Scope | Check Price | ATN | • One Shot Zero function • Advanced heat detection sensors • Lighter • recoil resistant • power efficient • Maximum performance |
 | ATN Thor 4 384x288, 1.25-5x Thermal Scope | Check Price | TheOpticGuru | • Ultra Low Power Consumption • Wifi Streaming • Video Recording • Smart Range finder |
 | ATN ThOR-HD 384 2-8x, 384x288, 25 mm, Thermal Rifle Scope | Check Price | ATN | • High Resolution HD Video Recording • Excellent Image Performance • Build-in Smart Rangefinder • Ballistic Calculator |
 | Burris BTS 35 1.7-6.8x35mm Thermal Riflescope | Check Price | Burris | • Light weight • Multiple Reticles • Compatible • Mountable |
 | AGM Global Vision Thermal Scope Rattler TS35-384 | Check Price | AGM Global Vision | • 8X Digital Zoom • Long performance • Oled Display • Ideal size • Compact • Medium Range |
 | AGM Global Vision Thermal Scope Rattler TS35-640 | Check Price | AGM Global Vision | • Wi-Fi hotspot • night vision scope • on board recording • high sensitivity detector • OLED display • Adjustable |
 | theOpticGuru ATN Thor 4 640x480, 1-10x Thermal Scope | Check Price | TheOpticGuru | • Ultra Low Power Consumption • Wifi Streaming • Video Recording • Smart Range finder • Ballistic Calculator • IV Dual Core Processor • Gen 4 Thermal Sensor |
 | theOpticGuru ATN Thor 4 384x288, 4.5-18x Thermal Scope | Check Price | TheOpticGuru | • Ultra Low Power Consumption • Wifi Streaming • Video Recording • Smart Range finder • Ballistic Calculator • IV Dual Core Processor • Gen 4 Thermal Sensor |
 | ATN Thor 4, Thermal Rifle Scope | Check Price | ATN | • Ultra Low Power Profile • Ballistic Calculator • Ultra-Sensitive Next Gen Sensor • Dual Stream Video Recording • Recoil Activated Video |
1) Thermal Scope By AGM Global Vision
The AGM Global Vision thermal scope is one of the top-rated models on the market and for good reason. It’s a high-quality product that offers a lot of features for the price. One of the best things about this scope is the high sensitivity detector. This allows you to see even the smallest of heat signatures, making it perfect for spotting game in low light conditions. The image processing technology is also worth mentioning. It ensures that you have a clear and crisp image at all times, even when zooming in.
Another great feature is the adaptive color palettes. This lets you customize the colors to better suit your needs and preferences. You can even save your favorite settings for quick and easy access later on. Finally, the Wi-Fi data transmission is a nice touch. It lets you share your images and videos with others wirelessly.
2) Thor LT Thermal Rifle Scope By ATN
The Thor LT Thermal Rifle Scope by ATN is one of the best quality thermal scope in the market. It is an affordable scope with many features that make it a good choice for anyone in the market for a thermal scope.
The scope is also lighter than an average scope, making it easier to carry and use. The One Shot Zero function makes it easy to zero in on your target, and the minimum power consumption ensures that you get maximum performance from your scope.
3) Thor 4 Thermal Scope By ATN
The Thor 4 Thermal Scope by ATN is one of the best thermal scopes on the market. It features a powerful Obsidian IV Dual Core Processor, Gen 4 Thermal Sensor, black-and-white and bright color palettes, HD resolution, Smart Rangefinder, Ballistic Calculator, Ultra-Low Power Consumption, and Dual Stream Video Recording. This scope is an excellent choice for long-range shooting and hunting.
4) Thor-HD Thermal Rifle Scope By ATN
The ATN Thor-HD is a high-definition thermal imaging scope that uses advanced technology to detect heat energy, instead of light. It’s one of the most popular night vision scopes on the market, thanks to its numerous features and impressive performance.
One of the best features of the Thor-HD is its built-in ballistic calculator. This allows you to quickly and easily calculate the trajectory of your shots, so you can make adjustments on the fly. The scope also has a smart rangefinder that automatically adjusts for distance, so you can be sure you’re always on target.
5) Thermal Riflescope By Burris
Burris Thermal Scopes provide a lot of capabilities that can help you take night hunting to a whole different level. Dynamic zoom, fast track, stadiametric range, colour schemes, 10 reticle variations, manual and auto NUC, and adjustable contrast and brightness are all available.
6) Thermal Scope Rattler By AGM Global Vision
The Thermal Scope Rattler by AGM Global Vision is a new type of scope that has been designed to provide the clearest possible image under even the most difficult environmental conditions.
This compact thermal imaging scope uses a 35 mm lens model and is great for medium-range missions. The Thermal Scope Rattler also comes with an onboard Wi-Fi module which allows you to live stream video from the scope to your smartphone or tablet.
Best Thermal Scopes 2023 Buying Guide
Photo Source-Amazon.com
What Is A Thermal Scope And How Does It Work?
A thermal scope is an optical device that uses a thermographic camera to see heat signatures in total darkness or through dense smoke, fog, and other obscurants.
Thermal energy, or infrared radiation, is invisible to the human eye but can be detected by special sensors. These sensors convert the thermal energy into an electronic signal, which is then displayed on a screen inside the thermal scope.
The image produced by a thermal scope is called a thermogram. Thermograms are often black and white, but some thermal scopes can display color images.
Who Needs A Thermal Scope?
The obvious first question is “who needs a thermal scope?” The answer to that might not be as simple as you think. You may be surprised to find out that there are many different types of people who benefit from using thermal imaging devices. Here are just a few examples:
1. Hunters
Whether you’re hunting deer, hogs, or varmints, a good thermal scope can give you a significant advantage. Thermal imaging allows you to see your prey even in complete darkness. You can also use it to spot game that is hiding behind brush or other objects.
2. Law Enforcement
Thermal imagers are frequently used by law enforcement and military personnel. They can be used to locate and track suspects, as well as to find hidden weapons and explosives.
3. Security Professionals
Security guards and other security professionals can use thermal imaging devices to detect intruders in complete darkness. Thermal imaging can also be used to monitor large crowds of people for potential threats.
4. Search and Rescue Personnel
Thermal imagers can be invaluable for search and rescue operations. They can be used to locate missing persons, even if they are hidden from view.
5. Building Inspectors
Thermal imaging can be used to detect energy leaks in buildings. This can help to improve energy efficiency and reduce utility bills.
6. HVAC Professionals
HVAC professionals can use thermal imaging to detect air leaks in homes and businesses. This information can then be used to improve the efficiency of the heating and cooling system.
7. Electricians
Electricians can use thermal imagers to find overloaded circuits and other potential problems. This information can help to prevent electrical fires.
8. Plumbers
Plumbers can use thermal imagers to find leaks in pipes, as well as to locate blockages.
9. Automotive Technicians
Automotive technicians can use thermal imagers to find mechanical problems. For example, a thermal imager can be used to locate an engine coolant leak.
10. Homeowners
Homeowners can use thermal imaging devices to find energy leaks in their homes. This information can help them to save money on their utility bills.
Photo Source-Amazon.com
Why Should You Buy A Thermal Scope?
Thermal scopes have a number of advantages over traditional optical sights. For one thing, they can be used in complete darkness, since they don’t rely on visible light to function. This makes them ideal for hunting nocturnal animals or for surveillance operations in low-light conditions.
Another big advantage of thermal scopes is that they can see through smoke, fog, and other obscurants that would block the view of an optical sight. This makes them perfect for use in combat situations where visibility is limited.
Finally, thermal scopes are less likely to give away your position than an optical sight. Since they don’t emit any light, they’re much more difficult to spot from a distance. This makes them ideal for use in stealth operations.
Different Types Of Thermal Scopes
There are different types of thermal scopes in the market. Here is a list of some of the best types that you can buy in 2023:
1. Uncooled microbolometer
This is the most common type of scope and it uses an uncooled infrared sensor. The sensor detects the thermal radiation emitted by objects and converts it into an electronic signal.
2. Stirling cycle coolers
These scopes use a closed-cycle cryogenic cooling system. The system uses a compressed gas to cool the infrared sensor.
3. Open-cycle gas cooled
These scopes use open-cycle gas cooling to keep the sensor at a very low temperature.
4. Argon ion lasers
These scopes use an argon ion laser to create a beam of thermal radiation. The beam is used to scan the object and create an image.
5. CO2 lasers
These scopes use a CO2 laser to create a beam of thermal radiation. The beam is used to scan the object and create an image.
6. MEMS microbolometers
These scopes use a microbolometer infrared sensor. The sensor is made from a silicon wafer and can detect extremely small changes in temperature.
7. Infrared focal plane arrays
These scopes use an array of infrared sensors to detect thermal radiation. The sensors are arranged in a two-dimensional array and can be used to create images of objects.
8. Quantum cascade lasers
These scopes use a quantum cascade laser to create a beam of thermal radiation. The beam is used to scan the object and create an image.
9. Long-wave infrared detectors
These scopes use a long-wave infrared detector to detect thermal radiation. The detector is made from a material that absorbs long-wavelength infrared radiation and converts it into an electrical signal.
10. Short-wave infrared detectors
These scopes use a short-wave infrared detector to detect thermal radiation. The detector is made from a material that absorbs short-wavelength infrared radiation and converts it into an electrical signal.
Factors To Consider Before Buying A Thermal Scopes
Now that we know what a thermal scope is, let’s look at some of the factors you should consider before buying one.
1. Price
As with any purchase, price is always going to be a factor. But with something like a thermal scope, it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for. So while there may be some cheaper options on the market, they may not offer the same quality or features as more expensive models.
2. Purpose
Before buying a thermal scope, it’s important to think about what you’ll be using it for. If you’re only going to be using it for hunting, then you won’t need all the bells and whistles that come with more expensive models. But if you’re planning on using it for tactical or law enforcement purposes, then you’ll want to make sure you get a model that has all the features you need.
3. Features
When considering which thermal scope to buy, it’s important to look at the different features each model offers. Some models may have better imaging capabilities, while others may offer more advanced features like video recording or built-in rangefinders. so decide what features are most important to you and base your decision off of that.
4. Brand
There are a lot of different brands out there that make thermal scopes. So it’s important to do your research and find one that you can trust. Look for reviews from other customers and see what their experiences have been like. This will help you narrow down your choices and find the best thermal scope for your needs.
How To Clean A Thermal Scope?
It’s important to keep your thermal scope clean, especially if you plan on using it in different conditions. Here are some tips on how to clean your thermal scope:
- Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away any debris or fingerprints from the lens.
- If there is any dirt or grime on the body of the scope, use a damp cloth to wipe it away. Be sure not to get any water on the lens.
- If your thermal scope has an eyepiece, make sure to clean it as well. Use a cotton swab or soft cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently wipe away any residue.
- Once you’re finished cleaning, store your thermal scope in a dry, cool place. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, which can damage the scope.
How To Maintain A Thermal Scope?
Thermal scope maintenance is key to keeping your investment in top condition. By taking proper care of your scope, you can prolong its life and keep it performing at its best. Here are a few tips on how to maintain a thermal scope:
- Store your thermal scope in a dry, cool place when not in use.
- Avoid exposing your scope to extreme temperature changes.
- Never look directly into the eyepiece of the scope while it is turned on.
- Clean the lenses of your scope regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
- Inspect your scope regularly for any damage or wear and tear.
- If you notice any problems with your scope, contact a qualified repair technician for assistance.
With proper care, your thermal scope will provide years of reliable service. By following these simple tips, you can keep your scope in top condition and ensure that it is always ready to perform at its best.
How To Use A Thermal Scope?
First and foremost, you need to make sure that your thermal scope is properly mounted on your weapon. If it is not, then it will be very difficult for you to get accurate shots off.
After you’ve mounted your scope, you’ll want to look through it to find your target. After you have located your target, take a deep breath and carefully press the trigger. You don’t want to yank the trigger since it will change the sights and cause you to miss your shot.
If you are shooting at a long range target, then you will need to account for windage. This can be done by using the windage knob on your scope. Simply turn it until the crosshairs are in the correct position for the wind conditions.
Once you have made your shot, you will want to follow through. This means that you should keep the crosshairs on the target until you see the impact. By doing this, you will be able to make any necessary adjustments to your next shot.
Additional Tips When Using A Thermal Scope
As with any other piece of equipment, there are a few things to keep in mind when using a thermal scope. Here are a few tips:
- Make sure the lens is clean before using the scope. A dirty lens can distort the image.
- Be aware of your surroundings. If it is cold outside, make sure you have proper clothing to prevent frostbite.
- If you are using the scope in an area with high humidity, condensation may form on the lens. To prevent this, keep the scope in a dry place when not in use.
- If you will be using the scope in low light conditions, make sure to use an infrared illuminator to get the best possible image.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Worth It To Buy A Thermal Scope?
Yes, a thermal scope is definitely worth the investment if you plan on doing any type of night hunting or shooting. They provide you with a clear advantage over traditional scopes and sights, as you’ll be able to see your target even in complete darkness.
How Much Does A Thermal Scope Cost?
Thermal scopes can range in price from around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the features and quality of the scope. However, there are some very good quality scopes available for under $2,000.
What Is The Difference Between A Thermal Scope And A Night Vision Scope?
The main difference between a thermal scope and a night vision scope is that a thermal scope will allow you to see your target even in complete darkness, while a night vision scope will only work if there is some ambient light present.
Do I Need A Special Rifle To Use A Thermal Scope?
No, you don’t need a special rifle to use a thermal scope. Any rifle that is compatible with the mounting system of your chosen scope will work just fine.
How Do I Zero My Thermal Scope?
Zeroing a thermal scope is just like zeroing any other type of scope. You’ll need to adjust the windage and elevation until the crosshairs are lined up with where you want the bullet to hit.
What Is The Difference Between A Thermal Scope And A Thermal Imager?
The main difference between a thermal scope and a thermal imager is that a thermal scope is designed to be used with a weapon, while a thermal imager is not. Thermal imagers are typically used for industrial or commercial applications, such as detecting heat leaks in buildings.
Final Thoughts
Thermal scopes are advanced pieces of equipment that can give you the ability to see in the dark and in bad weather. While they are not cheap, they are worth the investment if you need them for hunting, security, or any other purpose.
We hope our list of the best thermal scopes has helped you choose the right one for your needs.
As always, feel free to leave us a comment if you have any questions.
Hi, I’m Jon Johnson and I’m the founder of Scopespage.com – your one-stop blog for all things optics! Here you’ll find everything from reviews on binoculars and microscopes to articles about astronomy, photography, and more! I’m passionate about helping people explore the world through optics, so join me as I share my knowledge and experience with you!