5 Best Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting

Looking for the best thermal scopes for coyote hunting? Read on to discover the best on the market.

A thermal scope for coyote hunting is one of the most valuable pieces of equipment to invest in if you take your hunting seriously. It keeps you safe and alert and you will always have clear vision at night as well as during the day.

Thermal scopes are quite expensive however the market offers a lot of options, therefore you can always get one that will certainly meet all of your needs.

With many thermal scopes available on the market today, choosing the best one for your needs can be quite difficult. To simplify your selection process, taking into consideration key features such as size, design, and mounting ability, we have narrowed down the search for you.

Best Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting

1) ATN ThOR LT 4-8x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope

 

 

 

 

Specifications

• Detection range: 625m
• Dimensions: 11.5x 2.2 x 2.2 inches
• Weight: 1.4 lb / 650 g
• Battery life: 10+ hrs
• Magnification: 4-8x
• Eye relief: 90mm

Pros

• Weather resistant
• Multiple reticle patterns
• Ultra-low power consumption
• One short zero
• Ergonomic design
• HD display
• Easy to use and mount
• 3 years warranty
• Comfortable eye relief

Cons

• 30mm Standard Rings (not included)

 

The ATN ThOR LT 4-8x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope is the best thermal scope for coyote hunting. It is easy to use and mount, has comfortable eye relief, an HD display, weather resistance, multiple reticle patterns, Ultra-low power consumption, and a 625 m detection range.

The scope revolutionizes nighttime hunting with cutting-edge thermal imaging capabilities. This scope delivers exceptional performance with a versatile magnification range of 4-8x and a 50mm objective lens, engineered for hunters who refuse to let darkness limit their pursuits.

The advanced thermal sensor boasts a 160×120-pixel resolution, while the 1280x720p HD display ensures crystal-clear views of your target. Whether navigating dense woods or open fields, its black-hot and white-hot viewing modes reveal hidden prey with striking clarity. Designed to maximize efficiency, the one-shot zero feature simplifies sight adjustments, helping you prepare for the perfect takedown in no time.

Built to endure the rigors of the hunt, the ThOR LT combines a lightweight yet robust aluminum alloy construction with recoil resistance to handle high-caliber weaponry.

Its water-resistant design ensures reliable performance in unpredictable weather conditions, while the operating temperature range of -20 to 120°F makes it a trustworthy companion across diverse environments.

The built-in 3D accelerometer enhances precision by monitoring angle and position, offering added confidence with every shot. With over 10 hours of continuous battery life, this scope is ready for extended hunting trips without interruptions.

Weighing just 1.4 pounds and featuring a compact profile of 11.5 inches in length, the ThOR LT is incredibly versatile. Its lightweight build makes it suitable for mounting on crossbows, air rifles, and other platforms without compromising balance.

Multiple reticle options cater to varied shooting preferences, providing flexibility for different scenarios. Whether you’re targeting game at dawn, dusk, or the dead of night, this thermal scope adapts effortlessly to your hunting style.

From its advanced thermal imaging to its rugged construction, the ATN ThOR LT 4-8x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope offers a perfect blend of innovation and practicality.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or an enthusiast looking to expand your nighttime capabilities, this scope ensures unparalleled performance and precision. Experience the thrill of hunting after dark and elevate your game with this high-tech, all-weather optical solution.

 

2) Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x Thermal Rifle Scope

 

 

Specifications

• Detection range: 932m
• Dimensions: 7.7×3.4×3.7 inches
• Weight: 1.71lb
• Battery life: 4 hrs
• Magnification: 3-12x
• Eye relief: 45mm

Pros

• 8+ Reticle Types
• USB/Wi-Fi Video stream
• Easy to use
• Bluetooth, iOS, and Android compatible
• Integrated Stadiametric Rangefinder
• Ergonomic Design
• Inclinometer and Levelometer
• Multiple color palettes

Cons

• Battery life could be better

The Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x25mm Thermal Rifle Scope is the ultimate tool for hunters who thrive in low-light or nighttime environments. At the heart of this thermal scope is the advanced ArmaCORE  320×240 12-micron thermal core, which delivers exceptional image clarity, a reduced pixel size, and enhanced resolution.

With an impressive 60 Hz refresh rate, the Contractor ensures smooth and detailed visuals for tracking moving targets. Offering a magnification range of 3-12x and a 25mm objective lens, this scope boasts a detection range of up to 932 meters on human-sized targets, allowing you to spot distant prey with ease.

Powered by two CR123A batteries, it features a 35% reduction in power consumption, providing up to four hours of continuous operation.

Built for both durability and usability, the Contractor 320 features a robust aluminum body that meets MIL-STD standards and is IP67 water-resistant, ensuring reliable performance in extreme weather conditions.

The intuitive turret system makes navigating the menu and switching between multiple color palettes effortless, even in the heat of the hunt. With 8+ reticle types, 4 Image Detail Enhancements, and advanced tools such as an inclinometer, levelometer, and angle cosine indicator, this thermal scope is packed with features to optimize your shooting experience. The integrated stadia metric rangefinder simplifies distance estimation, while the graphic compass keeps you oriented in the field.

One of the Contractor’s standout features is its ability to capture and share your hunting adventures. Record up to four hours of video or take high-resolution images, all stored internally for easy access.

The scope supports USB and Wi-Fi video streaming, allowing seamless sharing with friends or on social platforms. Its wireless communication interface, Bluetooth 5.0 capabilities, and compatibility with iOS and Android apps add even more convenience, making this scope a high-tech powerhouse for modern hunters.

With its cutting-edge ArmaCORE thermal technology, durable construction, and versatile features, the Armasight Contractor 320 3-12x25mm Thermal Rifle Scope is an essential addition to any hunter’s gear. From identifying distant targets to documenting your hunts, this thermal scope offers everything needed to elevate your nighttime hunting adventures.

Whether you’re in harsh conditions or navigating difficult terrain, the Contractor is built to deliver unmatched performance and precision.

 

3) ATN ThOR 4 2-8x25mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope

 

 

 

 

Specifications

• Detection range: 960m
• Dimensions: 13.5x3x3 inches
• Weight: 2.03 lb
• Battery life: 18+ hrs
• Magnification: 2-8x
• Eye relief: 90mm

Pros

• 1280×720 HD Display
• Multiple reticle patterns and colors
• Smart Shooting
• Smart Range Finder
• Ultra-low power consumption
• Recoil resistant
• 18 + hrs battery life
• Long detection range
• iOS & Android compatible
• 30 mm Standard Rings (included)
• Weather resistant

Cons

• None

 

The ATN ThOR 4 2-8x25mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope is one of the best thermal scopes for coyote hunting, with its ultra-sensitive Gen 4 384×288 thermal sensor, this scope captures detailed images even in complete darkness, providing unmatched target acquisition at distances of up to 960 meters.

The 2-8x magnification and 25mm objective lens offer a versatile field of view, perfect for scanning wide open areas or honing in on fast-moving coyotes. Its 1280×720 HD display ensures crystal-clear visuals, while the 60 Hz refresh rate provides seamless, lag-free tracking of moving targets.

Designed for modern hunters, the ThOR 4 integrates advanced technology to enhance every aspect of the hunt. The built-in Smart Range Finder and ballistic calculator allow for precise shot placement, eliminating guesswork in calculating distance or trajectory. Its ergonomic design simplifies access to controls, enabling quick adjustments in the field.

With multiple reticle patterns and color options, hunters can customize their sight picture to suit any scenario. The scope’s smooth zoom function further ensures that no detail goes unnoticed, giving you a tactical advantage over elusive predators.

One of the standout features of the ThOR 4 is its dual-core processor, enabling simultaneous video recording and live streaming via Wi-Fi. The Recoil Activated Video (RAV) function ensures that every shot is captured, so you can relive the thrill of your hunt or analyze footage for improvement.

With 18 hours of battery life, the scope supports extended hunting sessions without interruptions, while GPS geotagging and tracking allow you to document your adventure in detail. Bluetooth 4.1 compatibility ensures seamless integration with iOS and Android devices, offering remote control, gallery access, and settings management.

Built to withstand rugged conditions, the ATN ThOR 4 features a water-resistant and durable design, weighing just 2.03 pounds for easy handling. Whether you’re scanning fields at dusk or tracking a predator in dense underbrush, this thermal scope delivers reliable performance and cutting-edge functionality.

As one of the best thermal scopes for coyote hunting, the ThOR 4 2-8x25mm combines precision, innovation, and durability to give hunters an unparalleled edge in the field.

 

4) Pulsar 2-16x Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro Thermal Rifle Scope

 

Specifications

• Detection range: 1800m
• Dimensions: 420 mm x 94.5 mm x 78.5 mm
• Weight: 2.0 lb
• Battery life: 10+ hrs
• Magnification: 2-16x
• Eye relief: 50mm

Pros

• 1024×768 AMOLED Display
• 10 reticle shapes in 9 colors
• 2,000 yards detection range
• Built-in photo and video recording
• 875-yard range finder
• Fully Waterproof
• 5 unique shooting profiles
• Recoil and shock-resistant

Cons

• Expensive

 

The Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro 2-16x Thermal Rifle Scope sets a new standard for thermal imaging in coyote hunting, combining advanced technology with unmatched precision. Featuring a powerful 640×480 microbolometer sensor, this scope delivers stunning clarity and detail, even in the darkest conditions.

Its 2-16x magnification range ensures adaptability for both close-range scanning and long-range targeting, making it a versatile tool for hunters who demand reliability in the field. The 1024×768 AMOLED display enhances visibility, ensuring you never miss the subtle movements of a well-hidden predator.

A standout feature of this thermal scope is its integrated Laser Range Finder (LRF), which provides real-time distance measurements up to 875 yards. This ensures precise shot placement, critical for clean and ethical hunting.

The Picture-in-Picture mode offers an enhanced focus on your target without sacrificing situational awareness, while 10 customizable reticle shapes in 9 colors let you tailor your view to suit any hunting scenario. With a heat detection range extending up to an impressive 2,000 yards, this scope leaves no coyote undetected, even in vast, open terrain.

Built for rugged use, the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro is designed to handle harsh conditions. Its IPX7 waterproof rating ensures functionality in rain or snow, while its durable construction withstands powerful calibers like 12-gauge, 9.3×64, and .375 H&H.

The Germanium lens enhances durability and performance, providing clear thermal imagery even in extreme temperatures ranging from -25°C to 50°C. With a 10-hour battery life, the scope supports extended hunts without interruptions, giving you confidence in its endurance for long nights in the field.

Seamlessly blending technology and convenience, the Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro offers built-in photo and video recording, allowing you to document every moment of your hunt. Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with the Stream Vision 2 App enable easy sharing and control via your smartphone.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newcomer, this thermal scope’s cutting-edge features and exceptional performance make it one of the best tools for coyote hunting, providing an unparalleled edge in your pursuit of nocturnal predators.

 

5) AGM Global Vision Rattler TS35-384 2.14x35mm Thermal Rifle Scope

 

Specifications

• Detection range: Medium
• Dimensions: 2.46 in x 7.37 in x 2.33 in
• Weight: 0.91 lb
• Battery life: 4.5hrs
• Magnification: 2.14 x
• Eye relief: 45mm

Pros

• Video recording and snapshot
• 3-year warranty
• Waterproof and shockproof
• External power supply capability
• OLED display
• Adaptive AGC, DDE, 3D DNR image processing technology

Cons

• Expensive

 

The AGM Global Vision Rattler TS35-384 2-16x35mm Thermal Rifle Scope is one of the best thermal scopes for coyote hunting, designed for versatility and reliability in any environment,with a 35mm objective lens and 2-16x magnification, it excels at medium-range shooting, offering sharp and detailed imagery. Its 384×288 thermal resolution and 1024×768 OLED display deliver exceptional performance even in adverse conditions like fog, snow, or dense woodlands, ensuring no target escapes your sight.

Whether used as a thermal rifle scope or a handheld monocular, this device is the ultimate tool for all-day, all-weather predator hunting.

Compact and lightweight at just 0.91 pounds, the Rattler TS35-384 is built from durable aircraft-grade aluminum and boasts a waterproof and shockproof IP67 rating for superior resilience.

Its image processing technologies, including Adaptive AGC and 3D DNR, optimize visual clarity, while the 8x digital zoom allows for precise targeting even at extended distances. The adjustable color palettes and built-in distance measurement enhance your ability to adapt to changing environments and hunting scenarios, offering flexibility that hunters will appreciate.

This thermal scope is powered by two CR123 batteries, providing up to 4.5 hours of operation. For longer hunting sessions, it supports an external 5V power bank via USB, ensuring uninterrupted performance.

The onboard Wi-Fi module enables live video streaming and image recording, letting you document your hunt with ease. The 16GB internal storage capacity ensures ample space for capturing high-quality snapshots and videos, creating lasting memories of every successful outing.

Mountable via Picatinny or Weaver rails, the Rattler TS35-384 is designed for seamless integration with your firearm. Its rugged construction, wide operating temperature range, and advanced features make it one of the best thermal scopes for coyote hunting.

Whether you’re navigating harsh terrains or scanning for predators in total darkness, this scope delivers the precision and reliability you need to succeed. Backed by a limited 3-year warranty, the AGM Rattler TS35-384 is an investment in cutting-edge thermal imaging technology that will elevate your hunting experience.

 

Related

• 6 Best 22 250 Scopes for Coyote Hunting
• 8 Best Scopes for AR-15 Coyote Hunting
• 6 Best Leupold Scopes for Coyote Hunting
• 7 Best ATN Scope for Coyote Hunting
• 7 Best Night Vision Scopes for Coyote Hunting
• 7 Best Binoculars for Coyote Hunting Day or Night Vision

Choosing the Best Thermal Scope for Coyote Hunting

1. Color modes

Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting color modes are essential when it comes to thermal imaging.

The color palette abilities of the image-transmitting device inside the eyepiece can have a huge effect on the hunters’ brains.

Blue or green pellet is most preferred because it is the easiest on the human eye. Flipping the different colors available while out there in the field will help you determine which color works best for you.

Most scopes will also be able to change between red, yellow, sepia, and monochrome as needed.

2. Construction

Hunting at night is quite delicate. Your Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting should be able to withstand several bumps and falls along the way without getting damaged.

The body of the best thermal scope for hunting should be built from durable quality materials and aluminum is the most commonly used material.  The thermal scope should also be built of materials that are completely water-resistant, fog resistant, shockproof, and dustproof.

3. Weight

Don’t forget that you will have to carry the thermal scope around with you while in the field. Therefore, a lightweight scope will be simpler to carry through the fields and easier to keep on target when firing offhand.

However, heavy scopes might be more durable and contain more inbuilt features, therefore you will need to consider what is important to you as a hunter as well as how you intend to you the thermal scope.

4. Sensor resolution

Thescreen resolution and refresh rate are some of the important features of any Thermal Scope for Coyote Hunting. No matter how great the sensors are or how far your scope can zoom, if the image you see isn’t crystal clear, your scope might then not be effective for your purposes.

Higher refresh rates and increased screen resolution will help create a crystal-clear image for the hunter.

There are some thermal scopes with in-built software that help smoothen the pixilation caused by slower refresh rates or high levels of digital zoom. Keep in mind how clear the target image presented to you will be when choosing your thermal scope.

5. Magnification

The magnification ability of Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting is very crucial. At night, you not only want to see what is in front of you in that darkness, but you also want to see far away game at magnified levels.

This makes it easier to close in on a shot with better accuracy than before. When choosing a thermal scope for hog hunting, consider the following regarding the magnification:

• Will higher magnification affect the quality of the image being relayed through the eyepiece?
• Is the thermal scope’s magnification ability ideal for the range of field you intend to be hunting in?
• Does the magnification offer the ability to shift relying on what kind of lens is attached to the scope?

6. Detection range

The detection range of your thermal scope determines how much land the scope will be able to provide visuals for. The detection range normally is derived in meters. The greater the detection range, the more you’ll be able to see out there in the hunting field.

Having adequate detection range abilities in your scope guarantees that you get the highest amount of visuals into your view.  This increases the probability of getting more games to hunt down. Smaller detection ranges are ideal if you intend to hunt a confined place or in a hill-blocked area.

Ensure that you carefully look at the detection range abilities of the thermal scope you intend to buy before you finally make the purchase. This is because there isn’t anything that can be added or changed in the scope later on.

7. Night and day modes

Certain Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting have the ability to shift between day and night modes flawlessly. The best thermal scope should be as effective and helpful during the day as it is at night.

When hunting, coyotes tend to blend into the natural surroundings of their habitat. This is how they protect themselves from being seen. A thermal scope only sees the temperature and therefore you will be able to see the coyote regardless of how well camouflaged they are because their body temperatures differ vastly from that of plants.

8. Additional features

Most thermal scopes have multiple extra features built into them to make your coyote hunting job simpler when taking that shot. However, all these extra features come at a cost. One of these is the ability to emit Wi-Fi and stream video recordings to an external source.

This is an important feature for someone who might be interested in real-time footage of their hunt in the field. For such a feature, you’ll have to double-check to ensure that the scope you are buying has it because it is mostly found in higher-end thermal scopes.

Think about the features you require VS the features you want when determining just how advanced you need your thermal scope to be.

Coyote Hunting Tips

Thermal Scope for Coyote Hunting FAQs

• Can you use a thermal scope during daylight?

Yes. Some thermal scopes even have a daylight mode which enables you to see in normal color. You can, therefore, use the scope no matter the light level. However, during the day when the temperatures are quite higher, it can be a little challenging to see your target but it’s still possible.

• Can a thermal scope see through the fog?

Yes. Most thermal scopes can see through fog, rain, snow, and any other environmental events without issue. You can also see through thick smoke without a problem.

• How do I attach it to my rifle?

Thermal scope attach to rifles through mounting rails and clasps. They are simple to slide on and off as required and won’t add much extra weight to your rifle. Prior to buying any thermal scope, take note of its mounting ability to avoid buying one that isn’t compatible with your rifle.

• What is the lifespan of a thermal rifle scope?

This entirely depends on how often you use the scope and how long you use it. This can be for several years. Most of the thermal cores in civilian optics are made by FLIR which offers a 10-year warranty on them.

• Should I go for a thermal or a night vision scope?

In the long run, a thermal scope is better because it can be used during the day as well as at night. You can, therefore, use for day hunting and night hunting. On the other hand, night vision scopes can only be used at night, therefore they are only smart investments if you happen to hunt at night only.

• Can you put a thermal scope on a crossbow?

Yes, you can. However, you need to be aware that most thermal optics aren’t set up for a crossbow and the reticle might not be the most useful. However, some like the ATN work well and can be configured to work with a crossbow.

Thermal Scope for Coyote Hunting Advantages

1. Versatility

One major advantage of thermal scopes is that they work the same during the day as well as at night. Unlike night vision scopes which only work at night, thermal scopes can be used at any time of day or night.

2. Easy to carry and use

Hunters are able to scan the field for long periods of time without arm fatigue. If you plan to use your thermal scope for long periods of time, it is important to look for this feature in the scope you intend to buy.

3. Sees through smoke, fog or dust.
4. Sees through leaves and thin materials and tracks residual heat.
5. Excellent magnification range.
6. HD video recording and HD photo shooting.

Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting Disadvantages

1. Expensive

Compared with the normal rifle scopes or night vision scopes, thermal scopes have a large price tag which is the most significant off-putting factor.

2. Not as detailed as night vision.

Thermal scopes are designed for detection and not identification, so most of them lack the detail that night vision scopes offer.

3. The image requires some training to interpret.

Conclusion

Thermal scopes are excellent for hunting coyotes and other nocturnal animals and showing your great shots to your friends.

If you aren’t on a tight budget, it is important to buy a quality thermal scope even if it has an expensive price tag because spending a bit more to get a higher quality is a good idea rather than saving some money initially then you end up not getting the best deal.

We hope that this guide helps you get the ideal thermal scope to head out with for some hunting at night. This is your comprehensive Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting Guide.

Related

• 6 Best Pellet Guns for Coyotes Hunting
• 7 Best Night Vision Scopes for Coyote Hunting
• 6 Best Leupold Scopes for Coyote Hunting
• 7 Best Binoculars for Coyote Hunting Day or Night Vision