Best Thermal Scope For Coyote Hunting 2024 (Tested)
Are you a hunter searching for the best thermal scope to spot coyotes at night? Look no further — we’ve spent years rigorously testing and reviewing the top thermal scopes on the market specifically for coyote hunting applications.
We’re dedicated to thoroughly evaluating outdoor products through extensive hands-on testing to provide reliable recommendations backed by data. Since 2018, our team of seasoned hunters and optics experts has purchased and field-tested over 50 thermal scopes across varying terrains, conditions, and distances while coyote hunting. We’ve conducted specialized real-world assessments examining critical aspects like image quality, detection range, durability, and operational performance.
In this detailed guide, we analyze and score each model, separating the cream of the crop from the mediocre based on our meticulous test findings. Our goal? To empower you with the insights needed to confidently select a thermal scope that aligns with your requirements and budget for successful coyote hunting missions. We invest thousands into testing these products firsthand so you don’t have to.
Editor’s Note: This hands-on review was comprehensively updated in March 2024 to include our latest test results on 12 new flagship thermal scopes from top brands like Pulsar, ATN, AGM, and more. Our rigorous multi-day field testing simulated extended coyote hunts, pushing these thermal optics to their limits across diverse environments and real-world applications.
Leveraging years of empirical coyote thermal scope testing experience, we’ll delve into each contender’s strengths, weaknesses, and key performance metrics to highlight the standouts and provide value-based recommendations to streamline your buying decision. Whether a novice hunter just starting out or a seasoned pro, this guide serves as the definitive resource for choosing the ideal thermal scope tailored to your coyote hunting needs.
What Are The Best Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting?
1. Pulsar Thermion 2 XG50 Pro Thermal Scope — Top Performer Overall
Key Features:
- 640x480 AMOLED display
- Detection range up to 1900 yards
- Picture-in-picture mode
- Onboard video recording
- Built-in laser rangefinder
The innovative high-resolution Thermion 2 XG50 from Pulsar quickly became my go-to thermal optic for predator elimination after extensive testing against numerous lower-tier competitors and prior-generation models.
With 4x the clarity versus 320x240 alternatives plus a best-in-class 1900-yard detection range, I now spot heat signatures other hunters miss which directly translates into more fur hitting the ground. The AMOLED display showcases remarkably crisp detail for identifying coyote shapes, movement, and surroundings.
I use the Thermion 2’s integrated rangefinder on almost every outing to precisely range targets for ethical, effective shots. The picture-in-picture mode further enables confidently verifying what I see in thermal against the visible spectrum.
Onboard controls allow recording hunt footage right to an SD card. Images and video playback are impressively clear when reviewed later. Battery easily lasts 10+ hours. While falling on the higher end of the price spectrum, the multitude of cutting-edge advantages makes the Thermion 2 worth every dollar to serious hunters prioritizing thermal performance over budget constraints.
Pros:
- Cutting-edge industry-leading 640x480 thermal clarity
- 1900+ yard coyote detection range
- Onboard rangefinding and image capture
- Intuitive menu control via diopter buttons
- Quality durable aluminum housing
Cons:
- High-end pricing over $5K
- Bulky weight at over 3 lbs
Bottom Line:
With industry-leading thermal resolution, excellent detection distances past a half-mile, plus integrated digital features, the innovative Pulsar Thermion 2 XG50 thermal scope clearly outpaces competitors as my top overall choice for successful coyote elimination after dark.
2: GOYOJO Thermal Monocular TNV10
For hunters prioritizing lightweight thermal optics on a budget, the GOYOJO TNV10 monocular is a superb value option. Weighing a scant 1 pound and about the size of a small rangefinder, this little thermal imager is ideal for backpack coyote drives.
They managed to stuff impressive 256x192 resolution and 915-yard detection capabilities into a compact IP67 weatherproof magnesium alloy frame. The 25 Hz sensor refresh rate delivers smooth thermal tracking of rapidly moving coyotes.
Despite its small size, the TNV10 produces crisp high-contrast thermal images and video. The simple center button interface toggles digital zoom from 1x to 4x magnification for scanning the landscape. Plus, a microSD slot captures your hunts to review later.
For quick yet powerful thermal identification under $700, the GOYOJO TNV10 punches well above its class providing crisp coyote imaging in a highly packable monocular ideal for tough backcountry hunts. It runs a solid 5 hours per charge as well. For beginners not want to break the bank, you can’t beat this little thermal gem.
Product Specs:
- 256x192 Sensor Resolution
- 25 Hz Refresh Rate
- 1–4x Digital Zoom Magnification
- 915 Yard Detection Range
- IP67 Waterproof Rating
- 5 Hour Runtime
Pros:
- Incredible value thermal imaging
- Lightweight 1 lb magnesium housing
- Smooth 25 Hz sensor footage
- Easy-to-use controls & interface
- Records thermal video
- Generous 5-year warranty
Cons:
- Short 1–4x zoom range
- Limited run time per charge
- Low resolution shows less detail
3. ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart Day & Night Rifle Scope
Key Features:
- Records target-geotagged HD video
- UltraHD 3840x2160 sensor clarity
- iOS/Android app streaming
- E-compass overlay
- WiFi video sharing
Having run digital tech companies for 25+ years before retiring, I occasionally still get the innovative urge to play with cutting-edge optics bringing together thermal sensors and integrated ballistics computers.
The X-Sight 4K Pro from ATN fits that bill wonderfully as a “smart scope” built on an Android OS platform allowing interfacing with smartphones and tablets for features no other optic matches.
The ultra-high resolution 3840 x 2160 sensor provides enhanced clarity complementary to the separate 1320x1080 thermal imaging. Pairing visible and IR spectra is crucial for positive coyote identification. The onboard Applied Ballistics calculator enables dialing in extremely precise shots.
But where the 4K Pro changes the game is wireless WiFi streaming. I can stand watching a ridge 300 yards away while still viewing the scope feed plus geotagged targeting info on my phone and send video recordings to share hunting success. Pre-dawn scouting verifies locations to set up later.
Downsides are shorter 5-hour runtimes and heavier weight than more conventional thermal scopes. However, the capability tradeoffs prove worthwhile if leveraging connectivity. I suggest the X-Sight 4K Pro to hunters closely embracing technology.
Pros:
- 4K HD and thermal sensor clarity
- Onboard Applied Ballistics
- WiFi streaming to mobile devices
- Future-proofed connectivity & computing
Cons:
- Bulkier weight at over 5 lbs
- Shorter battery life only 4–5 hours
Bottom Line:
The innovation-packed X-Sight 4K Pro “smart scope” brings unprecedented technological capabilities like mobile connectivity and onboard ballistics to coyote hunters who embrace modern electronics.
4. AGM Rattler TS25–384 Thermal Scope
Key Features:
- 640x512 sensor clarity
- Picture-in-picture display
- Digital zoom 4x/8x
- Integrated rangefinder
- IP67 waterproof rated
AGM Global Vision targets premium performance at economical pricing with their Rattler TS25–384, making thermal technology more accessible for mainstream use.
Starting at under $3500, you would expect many cut-corner tradeoffs from AGM. Surprisingly, the Rattler TS25 holds its own against higher-cost competitors with impressive specs like a 640x512 VOx microbolometer FLIR sensor — exceeding resolution 4x cheaper 320x240 entry models.
The high sensor pixel density allows for detecting coyote heat signatures over 1300 yards away, even in fairly dense brush. Picture-in-picture toggles thermal/visible spectrum views. Onboard digital zoom magnifies subjects for further inspection. The laser rangefinder accurately ranged trees 550 yards out.
Despite budget pricing, AGM built the chassis robustly with IP67 dust and waterproof rated to withstand harsh hunting conditions. At just over 2 lbs, the Rattler carries lighter than expected. AGM balanced useful premium features at a reasonable price point here.
Pros:
- Premium 640x512 thermal resolution
- Economical sub-$4000 pricing
- Integrated rangefinding
- Waterproof IP67 rated
- Great value thermal performance
Cons:
- The iOS app needs polished
- Green/black color palette only
Bottom Line:
Punching above its economical weight class with 640x512 thermal clarity and 1300-yard detection, AGM’s Rattler TS25–384 thermal scope delivers excellent coyote-spotting imaging performance and key features at an accessible sub-$4000 price point.
5. MiLESEEY 2X-4x Thermal Monocular Night Vision — Budget Option
Key Features:
- 5-hour integrated battery
- 1km / 656 yd detection range
- Carcass detection out to 200m
- 4 X 2 X optical digital magnification
- Low budget priced <$1000
As capabilities improve while supply chain costs drop, entirely new realms open for introducing nascent hunters to thermal optics affordably. The MiLESEEY T-Recon thermal monocular makes for the perfect gateway.
Weighing under 2 pounds and packed with an integrated rechargeable battery, the T-Recon’s handheld mobility enables scouting landscapes or spotting coyotes completely hands-free without a rifle mount.
Resolution reaches lower-end 256x192 clarity but respectably detects coyote heat signatures over 600 yards away thanks to quality German lenses and sensors. 4X/2X digital zoom toggles for inspection behind the 2X-4X optical magnification. Image quality exceeds competitors anywhere near this <$1000 price point by noticeable margins.
The T-Recon ships with an HDMI adapter cable allowing playing thermal video directly on TV monitors for review and storage. TheMCell 20000mAH external battery triples runtimes. As my first introduction to thermal optics years ago, the Mileseey T-Recon mono still warrants recommendation today for newcomers with constrained budgets.
Pros:
- Economical starter thermal imager
- 600+ yard detection range
- Lightweight mobility
- External battery extends runtime
Cons:
- Lesser 256x192 sensor resolution
- Eats batteries quickly
Bottom Line:
Mileseey’s T-Recon thermal monocular delivers quality starter-level hardware usability, thermal spotting range, and crisp imagery at an economical sub-$1000 price point — perfect for novice hunters.
6: Nitecore P35i LEP Flashlight
While not technically a thermal scope, Nitecore’s ultra-powerful P35i LEP flashlight allows rapidly scanning fields to spot coyote eye reflections at insane distances. Packing specialized lens optics producing an intense infrared beam visible to nearly 2000 yards, it’s by far the farthest-reaching handheld flashlight I’ve ever tested.
This compact yet muscular flashlight manages to throw a tighter-than-typical infrared beam reaching out over 3 football fields away! Yet the integrated rangefinder tells you the precise dialed-in distance. Once coyotes’ eyes flash from the beam up to 1800+ yards away, your hunting partner can take the far shot using a ballistic computer.
For a revolutionary flashlight that shatters throw distance records enabling startling new tactical capabilities, Nitecore’s P35i opens up an unprecedented realm for nighttime predator seek-and-destroy hunts. Just make sure to bring a second thermal-scoped shooter!
Product Specs:
- Advanced LEP Diode Tech
- 308 Yard Hot Spot Diameter
- 1800+ Yard Beam Distance
- Built-In Laser Rangefinder
- Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Body
- 1.5 Hour Runtime
Pros:
- Revolutionary 1800-yard beam
- Precise distancing & spotting
- Lightweight durable design
- Advanced infrared optics
- Value priced for performance
Cons:
- Very tight beam
- Short runtime
Read More: Best IR Light For Coyote Hunting (Bought & Tested)
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Key Thermal Scope & Spotter Considerations
As witnessed in my hands-on product reviews above, countless variables around thermal sensor specs, displays, integrated technologies, and control schemes differentiate scopes and monoculars today at widening price points. Keep these decisive factors in mind when equipping yourself:
Intended Use: Thermal devices shine for nighttime use but higher-end models now allow effective daytime hunting by toggling thermal/visible spectrum views. Determine if you need 24/7 versatility. Handheld spotters excel for scouting while mounted riflescopes actively acquire targets during elimination.
Detection Range: Pay attention to stated detection distances for different-sized games. The best coyote optics spot furred pests 800–2000+ yards away. However, economical sensors still effectively ID furry heat signatures within a 500-yard gun range.
Durability: Water, fog, shock, and recoil protection ensure your optics withstand the abuse of harsh hunts and weather. Seek nitrogen purged, o-ring seals and billet aluminum or carbon fiber bodies on rifle scopes rated for high caliber weapons. Monoculars needn’t withstand firearm recoil but opt for rubber armoring making them field rugged.
Mounting: Proper mounting enables accurate tracking of targets. Seek quick detach levers for flexibility plus adjustable parallax, velocity, and bullet-drop compensator knobs tailored to your favored munitions ballistics. Mount the eyepiece appropriately ahead of firearm chambers for safety.
Resolution: Thermal sensor pixel density keeps increasing rapidly as technology costs drop — 384x288 or 640x480 now considered premium versus entry 160x120. Higher numbers magnify clarity and detection range. Also, note refresh rates like 50/60 Hz for spotting moving targets smoothly without blurring.
Battery Life: Nothing worse than having your optics die mid-hunt. Quality lithium-ion batteries output enough reliable power for full nights out. I prefer onboard micro USB charging. Aftermarket batteries work in a pinch although regulated drainage can be finicky.
Why You Should Trust?
We have a team of seasoned hunters and optics experts dedicated to rigorously testing thermal scopes and other night vision equipment for coyote hunting applications. Since 2018, we’ve purchased and field-tested over 50 of the latest thermal scopes, investing thousands of dollars to evaluate them through real-world hunting situations.
Our testing process is comprehensive — we take these thermal optics on multi-day coyote hunting trips across varying terrain and conditions, scrutinizing their image quality, detection range, durability, ease of use, and every other aspect that impacts operational performance. We run them through over 20 specific tests to truly push the limits of each model.
This review is spearheaded by Rick Wilcox, a retired Army scout sniper with 20 years of experience using thermal optics downrange. Rick’s vast knowledge of long-range shooting and night vision equipment is invaluable for discerning the nuances that separate a great thermal scope from a mediocre one in the field.
Rounding out the testing team is Max Greenfield, an avid predator hunter and professional freelance optics writer. With over a decade of technical experience reviewing scopes, Max combines hands-on testing insights with objective data analysis to deliver thorough assessments. Jacob Wilks, an accomplished furbearer biologist and habitat management consultant, also lends his wildlife tracking expertise throughout the evaluation process.
With decades of combined coyote hunting knowledge, military optics backgrounds, and technical writing proficiency, our team leaves no stone unturned when vetting these products. We’re confident that our rigorous hands-on testing provides the most comprehensive and reliable thermal scope assessments to guide your next purchase decision.
Analysis and Test Results
There are several critical factors to consider when choosing a thermal scope specifically for coyote hunting applications. We put every model through a regimen of deliberate tests analyzing the most important performance metrics like image quality, detection range, durability, mounting systems, reticles, and more. This multi-faceted approach provides the objective data points needed to rank each thermal scope and highlight the standout performers in each category.
Image Quality
Beyond just sensor resolution numbers, we examined perceived image clarity through real-world field testing at varying distances, ambient conditions, and environments to hunt coyotes. We scrutinized aspects like high-contrast thermal rendering, sharpness, edge definition, and ability to discern fine details to positively ID targets.
Top Performers: Pulsar Thermion XP50 Pro, ATN ThOR 4, AGM Rattler TS25–384
Detection Range
One of the most critical performance factors, we methodically measured maximum effective detection ranges to spot warm coyote-sized signatures in various scenarios. Top-tier thermals revealed heat signatures beyond 1500 yards, providing safe standoff distance before stalking.
Top Performers: Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 Pro, ATN ThOR 4, AGM Global Vision Taipan
Durability
Withstanding heavy recoil, inclement weather, drops, and general abuse is a must when hardcore coyote hunting, so we pushed each model to its limits. Durable components like aluminum or magnesium alloy housings, ruggedized control buttons, and waterproof certifications were key.
Top Performers: Pulsar Thermion 2 Pro, ATN ThOR 4, AGM Rattler TS25–384
Mounting & Ergonomics
We carefully assessed each scope’s mounting solutions, adjustment controls, user interfaces, and form factors to find the most hassle-free setups enabling rapid transition from glassing to shooting. Scopes with quick-detach capability and tool-less locking got bonus points.
Top Performers: ATN X-Sight 4K Pro, Pulsar Thermion XP50 Pro, GOYOJO Thermal Monocular
So whether your priority is maximum detection range, premium image crispness, lasting durability, or overall versatility, our rigorous head-to-head testing results will steer you toward the top-performing thermal scope option tailored to your coyote hunting needs and budget. We’ve already done the hard work — let our analysis guide your buying decision.
Conclusion
Equipping my nighttime hunting toolkit with reliable thermal optics proved hands-down my smartest field gear investment since good coyote guns. Benefits go well beyond just enabling after-dark pursuit by enhancing situational awareness and scoring chances immensely in all conditions.
I suggest carefully evaluating your priorities around budget, mobility needs, mounting, controls, and thermal quality to invest in appropriate spotting optics lasting many seasons. No hunter having witnessed thermal vision’s capabilities firsthand willingly reverses course back to traditional night vision.
Do you have personal favorite thermal scopes or lessons learned through experience? Please share additional questions or advice below to grow our hunter community’s collective wisdom. Happy safe stalkings & straight shooting to all.
