Looking for the best thermal scope for hog hunting? You are in the right place. Read on, this buying guide will walk you through the best thermal scopes suitable for hog hunting.
Unlike traditional night vision optics, thermal scopes detect heat signatures emitted by living animals. This makes it possible to identify and track hogs in complete darkness, dense brush, or adverse weather conditions.
What Makes a Great Thermal Rifle Scope for Hog Hunting?
Several attributes make a thermal rifle scope great for hog hunting and the first thing is the thermal sensor.
A thermal scope for hog hunting and hunting, in general, is as good as its sensor. Ensure the model you choose comes with an ultra-sensitive thermal sensor so it will be easy for you to detect your targets even when they are hiding behind obstacles like bushes.
Secondly, a great thermal scope comes with a decent magnification for glassing targets at both close and distant ranges.
To complement the magnification, the scope should also have a quick refresh rate for accurate target recognition.
Furthermore, a good thermal rifle scope is made with high-quality materials that enhance the durability.
In addition to having a quality construction, the scope should be shockproof, fog proof and water proof. This will optimize the durability and ensure that you get reliable performance in any weather condition.
Last but not least, a great thermal rifle scope should also have a decent detection range, a long lasting battery and a lightweight construction for easy maneuverability in the field.
Best Thermal Scope for Hog Hunting – Top Picks
1) ATN Thor LTV Ultra-Light Weight Thermal Scope
The ATN Thor LTV Ultra-Light Weight 3-9x is the best thermal scope for hog hunting. It is built ready for hunting and delivers a powerful combination of thermal imaging performance and lightweight construction.
ATN designed this scope with a high-resolution 1280×720 display and video recording capability, allowing users to capture clear thermal footage during hunts or range sessions. The 60 Hz refresh rate provides smooth image movement, while the 3-9x magnification range gives hunters flexibility for both close and medium-range engagements.
With a detection range of up to 920 meters, the Thor LTV helps users identify heat signatures at impressive distances, making it suitable for predator hunting, hog hunting, and nighttime observation. Furthermore, the multiple reticle options also allow shooters to customize their aiming experience based on their preferred shooting style.
Beyond that, the ATN Thor LTV focuses on portability without sacrificing durability. Its aluminum construction keeps the scope strong while maintaining an ultra-light weight of only 1.4 pounds, reducing rifle fatigue during long hunting sessions. The compact 11.5-inch length and riflescope ring mounting system also make installation straightforward on compatible firearms.
In addition to everything else, the scope provides generous 90 mm eye relief for comfortable viewing and uses two lithium-ion batteries to deliver up to 9 hours of operation.
Features
- Ultra-Sensitive thermal sensor
- SharpIR technology
- 3-9x magnification
- One Shot Zero
- Built-in recorder captures footage at 1280×720 resolution
- Lightweight design
- Long battery life
Pros
- Lightweight 1.4 lb design
- 640 thermal sensor provides detailed heat detection performance
- Long 920 m detection range supports extended observation distances
- Smooth 60 Hz refresh rate delivers fluid thermal images
- 3-9x magnification range offers versatility for different shooting distances
- Multiple reticle options allow shooting customization
- Records 1280×720 thermal video for reviewing hunts and activities
- Long 9-hour battery life supports extended field sessions
- Durable aluminum housing withstands outdoor use
Cons
- Big budget
2) GOYOJO GRS Series Thermal Riflescope – Best Budget
Coming in second is the GOYOJO GRS Series Thermal Riflescope. It offers an impressive combination of affordability and practical performance for hunters who want to experience thermal imaging without investing in a premium priced optic.
Built around a 256×192 VOx thermal sensor with a sensitive 12 μm pixel pitch and a smooth 50 Hz refresh rate, the scope produces clear thermal images that make it easier to detect hogs, coyotes, deer, and other game in complete darkness, fog, or dense vegetation.
Furthermore, the 25 mm objective lens, 3.5x optical magnification, and up to 8x digital zoom provide enough versatility for short to medium range hunting, while the 1440×1080 OLED display delivers bright, sharp images with excellent contrast.
The integrated picture in picture mode, multiple color palettes, one shot zeroing, and hot target tracking further enhance the overall shooting experience, allowing hunters to acquire and engage targets with greater confidence.
Beyond its imaging performance, the GRS Series includes several premium features that add real value in the field. Built in Wi Fi enables users to connect the scope to a mobile app for viewing, transferring photos and videos, and managing settings remotely. The onboard recording function with audio allows hunters to capture every hunt, while the 32 GB internal storage provides plenty of space for media files.
In addition to everything else, the rugged aluminum magnesium alloy housing, IP67 waterproof rating, and recoil resistance make it suitable for demanding hunting conditions, and the combination of an internal rechargeable battery with an external backup battery extends operating time to approximately 7 to 9 hours.
Features
- Recoil-activated video
- Crisp 1440×1080 OLED display
- Smooth 50 Hz refresh rate
- Waterproof construction
- 3.5× optical zoom combined with 1–8× digital zoom
- 10 reticle patterns
Pros
- High quality 256×192 thermal sensor with 12 μm pixel pitch
- Built in photo, video, and audio recording
- Wi-Fi connectivity with mobile app support
- One shot zero and hot target tracking features
- Long 7 to 9 hour battery life with dual power system
- Durable IP67 waterproof aluminum magnesium construction
- Optional integrated 1,000 meter laser rangefinder
- Excellent value for budget conscious hunters
Cons
- Lower sensor resolution than premium 384×288 or 640×512 thermal scopes
3) Pulsar Core RXQ30V 1.6-6.4×22 Thermal Rifle Scope – Best Premium
This Pulsar thermal rifle scope is a no nonsense hunting optic built to take your hunting skills a notch higher. It has a high resolution 384×288 thermal sensor that provides highly detailed imaging, even in dark, moonless nights for accurate target identification. It is also designed to perform effectively over a wide range of temperature from -13°F to 122°F.
This thermal scope utilizes a green sapphire display which allows you to observe your targets without eye strain and fatigue. Moreover, it boasts Pulsar’s popular Picture-in-Picture function that offers a large field of view in addition to precise shot placement.
Another impressive feature about this optic is the Iris technology that offers increased recognition and detection range. With it, you get a detection range out to 900m which is more than sufficient for hog hunting. The scope also boasts a variable zoom power which makes it ideal for hunting at varying distances.
Above all, the RXQ30V has a lightweight and compact design for easier maneuverability in the field, and it is fully waterproof to provide dependable performance even in rainy and humid environments.
Features
- High resolution 384×288 core
- IPX7 waterproof rating
- Green sapphire display
- 2x, 4x with stepped digital zoom
- 900m effective detection range
- Weaver/Picatinny mount
- White-hot and black-hot viewing modes
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design
- Ideal for use in a wide range of temperatures
- High 50Hz image frequency
- Easy to use
- Excellent image quality
Cons
- Pricey
- Fixed focus
4) AGM Global Vision Varmint V2 – Best Rugged
Packed with an array of user-friendly features, the AGM Global Vision Varmint V2 Thermal Rifle Scope delivers an excellent combination of image quality, advanced features, and compact design.
The scope is built around a highly sensitive 12-micron thermal sensor with a sub 20 mK NETD rating. It produces crisp thermal images with impressive target separation in rain, fog, and complete darkness. Besides, it is available in both 384×288 and 640×512 sensor options, allowing hunters to choose the level of detail that best suits their budget and hunting style.
The integrated laser rangefinder and onboard ballistic calculator simplify long-range shooting by providing accurate distance measurements and holdover corrections. Furthermore, the 1024×768 OLED display presents sharp, high-contrast images, while the 50 Hz refresh rate keeps moving targets smooth and easy to track.
Despite its feature-rich design, the Varmint V2 remains lightweight and compact, making it comfortable to carry during long predator or hog hunting sessions. It also boats an IP67 waterproof rating and shock-resistant housing to ensure dependable performance in harsh weather and rough terrain.
Features
- Built in video recording, image capture, and 16 GB internal storage
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Picture in Picture mode
- Supports rechargeable 18650 batteries and external USB C power
- IP67 waterproof and shock resistant construction
- Multiple color palettes and customizable reticles
Pros
- Excellent thermal image quality with a highly sensitive sub 20 mK sensor
- Available in both 384×288 and 640×512 sensor resolutions
- Integrated laser rangefinder provides fast and accurate distance measurements
- Built in ballistic calculator improves long range shooting accuracy
- Sharp 1024×768 OLED display delivers clear target detail
- Smooth 50 Hz refresh rate enhances tracking of moving game
- Compact and lightweight design reduces fatigue during extended hunts
- Simple and intuitive controls are easy to operate in the field
Cons
- The 640 resolution models are relatively expensive
5) Steiner eOptics Nighthunter S35 1-8x Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope
Another best thermal scope for hog hunting on our list is the Nighthunter S35 1-8x Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope. With this scope, you will get outstanding optical performance even on the darkest nights where you can’t see an inch ahead with your naked eyes.
It utilizes a top-tier thermal sensor which provides stupendous display quality regardless of the lighting condition. It also features a Quantam Vision technology that offers outstanding usability by creating a superior night hunting thermal optic.
Long detection range is another feature that makes this thermal imaging rifle scope stand out. With it, you can detect hogs, coyotes, pigs and other predators past 2,000 yards and recognize them within 500 yards. Moreover, it features multiple reticle colors for visibility in diverse lighting environments, and customizable color output for optimum eye comfort especially when you are behind the scope for long hours.
Features
- High-quality OLED display
- 1-8x variable magnification
- 640×480 pixels sensor resolution
- Picatinny attachment mount
- Multiple reticle colors
- Customizable color output
Pros
- Crisp clear views of moving game
- Durable housing
- High contrast with outstanding sensitivity
- Long detection range
- Numerous accessories included
Cons
- Big budget
6) Pulsar 2.5-10x Talion XQ38 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope
Next up is the Talion XQ38 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope from Pulsar. This optic comes with nearly every feature that you require to take your turn your hog hunting into an extravaganza.
Firstly, it features a highly-sensitive 384×288 sensor that offers highly detailed imaging even in pitch-dark nights. Additionally, it has a Picture-in-picture mode that gives you a visual control of the whole field of view for more precise shot placements. It also offers a selection of 10 different reticle patterns in 9 color modes for greater accuracy in various lighting environments.
This scope is built to be used on a wide range of firearms. It possesses 5 shooting profiles that save up to 50 zeroing distances. It also comes with a multi-point prism mount for accurate positioning on the rifle and a unique battery design that allows for rapid extraction when you need to do a replacement.
For extra convenience, the scope allows for rapid and correct focusing without the need to look at the adjustment knob or change your shooting position. It also boasts 3 sensitivity amplification levels which provide better hunting opportunities and a lightweight magnesium alloy housing that maximizes durability without adding extra weight.
Above all, this optic has an IPX7 waterproof rating so it will work well in any weather condition.
Features
- Photo and video recording
- 384×288 sensor
- IPX7 waterproof rating
- 10 reticle patterns in 9 color modes
- Lightweight magnesium alloy housing
- Picture-in-picture mode
- Wi-Fi integration with iOS and Android devices
Pros
- 8 variable color palettes
- High image quality even in extreme weather conditions
- Versatility
- Easy to use
- 3 sensitivity amplification levels
Cons
- Heavily built
- Short eye relief
7) Trijicon Electro Optics IR-hunter Type 2 24mm Thermal Rifle scope 640×480
Another robust and reliable thermal scope ideal for hog hunting is the Trijicon IR-hunter 24mm Thermal Rifle scope. This mini thermal scope is rugged, powerful and very simple to use.
The scope features an ultra-sensitive 640×480, 12 micron thermal image sensor which delivers superb image quality and clarity in any lighting situation. This high-end sensor doesn’t work only at night. It will also help you to see your targets clearly through smoke, dust, sand, fog and total darkness.
Furthermore, the scope features a wide selection of user-selectable reticles for use in different environments. Construction-wise, it features a top-loading battery compartment for easy battery change without removing the optic from the firearm, a quick release mount which provides multiple mounting locations and intuitive turret controls for ease of use.
Above all, this USA-made thermal rifle scope is built tough to handle anything nature throws at it and ensure that you get many years of service from it.
Features
- 640×480, 12 micron thermal sensor
- Durable construction
- Top-loading battery compartment
- User-selectable reticles
- Intuitive turret controls
- Expanded functionality
Pros
- American quality
- Great accuracy
- Compact design
- Advanced IR technology
- Multi-purpose
- Ideal for hunting in adverse climatic conditions
Cons
- High cost
Read Also
How do Thermal Scopes Work?
Thermal imaging scopes work by detecting IR heat that is given off by an object. Both living and non-living things emit infrared radiation. When you are hunting or shooting, the scope will detect the IR radiation from the target, process the signals it collects and transform that to photons that form the image you see on the scope.
Unlike night vision scopes that depend on some amount of light to create an image, a thermal imaging scope will work even in total darkness. All it needs it to detect heat signatures from the subject to form the image.
Criteria for Choosing the Best Thermal Scope for Hog Hunting
With the market offering plenty of thermal scopes to choose from, here are some of the features you should look for when shopping for the best thermal rifle scope for hog hunting.
Magnification
Magnification in a thermal scope enlarges a distant object and brings it closer. Normally, thermal scopes have lower magnification compared to that in traditional rifle scopes. This is because high magnification can minimize the image resolution and refresh rate. To achieve the most out of your expedition, look for a scope that offers decent magnification depending on how far you will be hunting.
Resolution
Resolution is arguably the most integral part of a thermal rifle scope. It not only affects the quality of the images produced, but also determines the cost of the equipment.
When it comes to choosing the best thermal scope for hog hunting, a model with a 384×288 or 640×480 sensor will be sufficient. But a model with 640×480 sensor will provide clear images than the former.
Detection Range
The other important feature to look at is the scope’s detection range. This is the maximum distance that it will allow you to positively identify your target.
The high-end models will let you identify a target that is as far as 4,000 yards away, while entry-level scope have about 1,000 yards detection range. Typically, your ideal detection range will chiefly depend on the task at hand and the hunting environment as well.
Refresh Rate
To have the most out of your hunting trip, you will need a thermal scope with a high refresh rate. The more frequently the optic refreshes, the clearer the image views will be and the faster the information you will get. A tip is to look for a model that offers not less than 50Hz refresh rate.
Battery Life
A quality thermal rifle scope will offer at least 8 hours of continuous run time. This way, you are able to hunt continuously without the interruption of battery failure.
Other than the battery life, pay attention to whether the battery is removable on rechargeable. If it is removable, ensure that is it is readily available in the market for when you need to do a replacement.
Durability
Lastly, consider the quality of construction the thermal scope has. These devices are costly, so you will want to invest in a model that is built-well to offer long-term durability. It is this way only that you will get value for your money.
The best thermal scope for hog hunting is made using high-grade materials that optimize its strength, durability and reliability. The scope should also be waterproof, fog resistant and shockproof for added durability and all-weather use.
Mistakes to Avoid when Buying a Thermal Scope
- Buying the cheapest model without evaluating image quality and performance
- Ignoring sensor resolution, which greatly affects image detail and target identification
- Overlooking NETD sensitivity, resulting in poor performance in humid or low contrast conditions
- Choosing excessive base magnification for your typical hunting distances
- Focusing only on detection range instead of recognition and identification capabilities
- Ignoring the display resolution and refresh rate, which impact viewing comfort and target tracking
- Underestimating the importance of battery life for extended hunts
- Buying a scope that is too heavy for your rifle or hunting style
- Failing to verify compatibility with your firearm and mounting system
- Overlooking recoil resistance if you plan to use the scope on high caliber rifles
Best Thermal Rifle Scope for Hog Hunting FAQs
- What is the range of a thermal scope?
The range of thermal scopes is different from one model to the other. It also affected by the weather condition and the quality of sensors an individual device has. Typically, thermal scopes for hunting have an effective identification range of about 500 yards and a detection range of at least 1,000 yards.
- Can a thermal rifle scope see through walls?
No. A thermal scope can not see through walls. The thickness of walls blocks the infrared rays from reaching the scope. However, a thermal rifle scope can see through smoke and fog in addition to dust and total darkness.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what you need from a thermal rifle scope for hog hunting will help make your selection process simpler and less time consuming. We do hope that this guide has given you some insight into the best thermal scope for hog hunting. All the scopes listed above use superior and modern thermal imaging technology to revolutionize how you hunt and make your hunting trips more fun and rewarding. Use our guide above and pick the model that suits your hunting needs and style the best.