What’s the Best Thermal Clip-On for Hunting?

Hunting with Firearms
1

I’m in the market for a thermal clip-on and hoping to get some feedback on what’s out there. I have a few requirements in mind, mainly looking for options that provide good clarity and range, especially in low-light conditions. I’ve heard varying opinions on different brands, so I’d love to hear from anyone who’s actually used these devices in the field.

Key Features to Consider:

  • Image Clarity: How important is this for you, and what models have delivered well?
  • Battery Life: Longer is better, especially for extended hunts.
  • Weight and Size: I’m considering how these will attach to my current setup, so compact and lightweight options would be appreciated.

Recommendations:

I’ve seen some mention brands like Pulsar and Nightcraft, but I’m unsure if they’re worth the investment. Can anyone share their experiences?

Price Range:

Let’s talk budget as well. I’m looking to balance quality with cost, so if there are any hidden gems or models that are great but not too expensive, please let me know.

Any insights, personal experiences, or examples of what you’ve used successfully would be greatly appreciated! Looking forward to your feedback!

2

I’ve been using the Pulsar Thermion 2 and I can say its thermal sensitivity is impressive. The details are clear even at long distances. Definitely worth considering for hunting!

3

I’ve heard good things about Pulsar, but how does it handle response time? Any lag when acquiring targets?

8 Likes
4

Response time is crucial! The AGM FoxBat has a decent response, but it lags a bit in colder conditions. Calibration is also essential; make sure to adjust based on the environment.

5

Interesting! Has anyone else experienced calibration issues with the FoxBat?

6

Never had calibration problems with mine! Just keep it clean and do routine checks. The FoxBat holds up well in practice; it’s reliable in various environments.

7

What about the weight factor? Some thermal clip-ons feel bulky, affecting my aim. How do the options you guys mentioned compare in weight?

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8

The Trijicon IR Hunter is pretty lightweight but still performs well. Good thermal sensitivity too!

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9

Really? I found the Trijicon lacking in thermal precision in heavily wooded areas. It’s great on open fields but not always reliable in cover.

10

That’s a valid point! Maybe it depends on the user’s hunting style and environment. What’s everyone’s setup?

11

I typically hunt in open fields, so my setup is optimized for that. If I were doing more wooded hunts, I might look into something different.

12

I once tried to calibrate mine on a sunny day and it went haywire! Procured a crazy result. Lesson learned: Always calibrate according to the weather.

13

Ha! Good tip, maxwell89! It’s like trying to catch fish with a net full of holes—no success!

14

I’ve been using the Pulsar Thermion 2 for a few months now. It’s got excellent clarity and a decent range. There’s a steep learning curve, but the results are worth it!

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15

That’s interesting! How does it compare to the ATN OTS LT? I’ve heard mixed reviews about it.

16

I found the ATN OTS LT is really budget-friendly, but the image clarity isn’t as sharp as Pulsar. It’s great for beginners though and has decent features for the price.

17

I’ve heard the ATN models can be laggy. Is that true? I might just save up for the Pulsar instead.

18

I’ve owned both the Pulsar and the ATN. The Pulsar feels much more reliable, whereas the ATN sometimes struggles in colder weather. Worth noting if you frequently hunt in winter!

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19

I’ve been looking at the FLIR ThermoSight series. Anyone have experience with those? They seem robust and user-friendly.

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20

The FLIRs are generally solid. I think they excel in durability. However, they come with a higher price tag.

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