If you are looking for the best thermal scope with rangefinder, you have come to the right place. Predator hunters have embraced the use of thermal scopes for nighttime hunting. Over the decade, the use of thermal scopes has seen a significant increase.
Some of these models have in-built range finding capability. The range finding function is a great incentive in enhancing accuracy while on the field. Most thermal scopes include a rangefinder, so they do not just help you spot your target but also show you how far they are so you can easily plan your shot.
What Makes a Great Thermal Scope?
In case you are wondering what to look for in a thermal scope, this section sheds light on how to choose a thermal rifle scope. There are several specs a thermal scope must check to be considered the best thermal scope with rangefinder.
First up, a high-quality thermal scope should have a long detection range. The device should be able to pick up targets 4000 yards. Not everyone will be shooting targets that far so an ideal thermal scope should be determined by the task at hand. No matter the application, the thermal scope should be able to positively identify the target.
The other feature of a great thermal scope with rangefinder is a decent refresh rate. A scope that refreshes more frequently is better as it helps the shooter detect any movements in the scene. For the best hunting experience, consider a thermal scope with a refresh rate of at least 30 Hz.
To bring distant targets into sharp focus, the zoom type plays an integral part. Thermal scopes are manufactured with either digital zoom or optical zoom. Digital zoom uses software and is found in entry-level thermal scopes with lower price tags.
Optical zoom is used in premium thermal scopes and delivers sharper images than the former. Choose thermal scopes with optical zoom for satisfactory image quality.
Pay attention to the battery used on the thermal scope. A reliable thermal scope should deliver a seamless performance of up to 8 hours on a single charge. High-quality thermal scopes are equipped with long-lasting batteries. However, remember the battery is sensitive to moisture and proper maintenance is paramount to keep the battery in good shape for many years.
Lastly, a warranty should be part and parcel of such an investment. Not just a warranty, an extended warranty. A device with a long warranty length instills confidence it is of the best quality. Also, it assures you that the manufacturer is reliable and will be there for customer support especially if it’s your first device.
7 Best Thermal Scopes with Rangefinder
When it comes to hunting and shooting at night, it is important to have the right tools. A thermal scope is one of the most useful tools you should have. It will help you see your targets clearly in low visibility environments and on complete nights as well.
Selecting the best thermal scope with rangefinder can be a daunting task. We have compiled a list of the best thermal scopes with rangefinder to help you make an informed buying decision. Let’s take a look:
1) ATN ThOR 4 1.25-5x19mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope
At the top of our list is the ATN ThOR 4 1.25-5x19mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope. This scope has virtually everything you require in a thermal imaging rifle scope.
It is powered by ATN’s Obsidian IV dual-core. It features an ultra-sensitive Next Gen sensor that provides crisp clear images with improved resolution and smooth gradations even at long ranges.
The thermal scope also boasts a ballistic calculator which helps you determine the exact ballistics for precise long-range shots and a smart range finder that shows you how far your targets are.
This thermal scope looks and feels like a traditional rifle scope. It has standard mounting rings which make it easy to mount and detach on the rifle. The rifle scope also offers a long eye relief for comfortable shooting even when you are wearing eyeglasses and a user-friendly design which makes it ideal for all users even those without experience.
Other notable features found in the scope include recoil-activated video, ultra-low power profile and dual-stream video recording.
Features
- 30mm standard mount rings
- Ballistic calculator
- Smart rangefinder
- Long eye relief
- Recoil activated video
- User-friendly design
- Ultra-low-power profile
- Lightweight design
- Ultra-sensitive Next Gen sensor
- Dual-stream video recording
Pros
- Superb entry-level thermal rifle scope
- Improved resolution for crisp images
- Ballistic calculator to promote responsible hunting
- Up to 18 hours of operation
- Can record video and stream in the heat of action
- Great customer service
Cons
- Screen freezes without firmware updates
2) Pulsar Thermion XM50 5.5-22x42mm Thermal Rifle Scope
The Thermion XM50 is a modern thermal rifle scope built with the latest thermal imaging technology. It delivers exceptional performance on a traditional style 30mm tube.
This thermal riflescope is built to be virtually indestructible. It has a reliable and rugged all-metal housing to ensure flawless field performance.
It is also IP67 water-resistant to stand heavy downpour and snow, and recoil resistant to provide flawless performance on large calibers with heavy recoil.
Furthermore, it is built with high-quality germanium optics and an advanced thermal imaging sensor which provides an unmatched detection range up to about 2,500 yards.
The scope also brings to the table 5 rifle profiles with 50 different zero saves, picture in picture digital zoom and 13 different electronic reticles for greater accuracy in different environments. Above all, it has a stadiametric rangefinder and a one-shot zeroing with a freeze function for easy sighting of the scope.
Features
- Built-in recording with recoil activation
- IP67 water-resistant construction
- Reliable and rugged all-metal housing
- One-shot zeroing with freeze function
- 2,500 yards detection range
- 5 rifle profiles with 50 zero saves
- Stadiametric rangefinder
- High-quality germanium optics
- Picture in picture digital zoom
Pros
- State-of-the-art optical system delivers extraordinary performance
- High resolution for clear images in all magnification powers
- Increased recognition ability
- Extended detection range enhances versatility
- 13 reticle options for a customized shooting experience
- Rangefinder calculates distance accurately for accurate shot placement
Cons
- None
3) ATN ThOR 4 4.5-18x50mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope
Get the best thermal rifle scope for the upcoming hunting adventure. ATN makes a wide range of high-quality night vision scopes and thermal scopes and the ThOR 4 4.5-18x50mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope is not an exception. It offers excellent optical performance day and night thanks to the 384×288 sensor.
This thermal rifle scope is built with hunters in mind. First, it is light as a feather for easy carrying in the field. It also has a built-in smart rangefinder that shows you how far your targets are so you can shoot more accurately and a ballistic calculator which helps you hunt responsibly.
For added convenience, the scope has a smooth zoom which lets you magnify to target without losing what is in your field of view and a built-in high-resolution recording with recoil activation for easy video recording. To top it all, this thermal scope is crafted with a hardened aluminum alloy which enhances its strength and durability.
Features
- One-shot zero
- Ballistic calculator
- Smart Mil-Dot reticle
- Dual-stream video
- Ultra-low power consumption
- Recoil activated video
- Rugged and reliable aluminum alloy housing
- Recoil resistant
- ATN radar
- Built-in smart rangefinder
Pros
- Quality sensors deliver excellent image performance
- Improved shot placement aided by the ballistic calculator
- Smooth magnification changes
- Powerful battery for extended hunting periods of up to 22 hours
- Recording function to capture all the moments
- High resolution for crisp images
Cons
- Flimsy lens covers
- Drains batteries quickly
4) ATN ThOR 4 4-40x75mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope
Next on our list is the ATN ThOR 4 4-40x75mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope. It features an ultra-sensitive next Gen sensor that provides exceptional performance at night and during the day as well.
Weighing just 2.35lb, this scope has a manageable weight for easy carrying in the field. It features high-quality optics which provide sight pictures in HD quality to help enhance your shooting accuracy at long ranges even on the blackest nights.
The scope also features an ultra-low power profile which offers more than 16 hours of continuous runtime when fully charged. Above all, it has a 30mm tube with classical ergonomics to make your shooting experience simple and familiar.
Furthermore, the scope combines aspects such as recoil-activated video and dual-stream video to help you record all your hunting and shooting trips. It also brings to the table a wide array of applications like ballistic calculator, one-shot zero, smart rangefinder, E-compass, GPS and 3D gyroscope to help you become a better hunter.
Features
- Classic ergonomic design
- Recoil activated video
- Ultra-low-power profile
- Smooth zoom
- 4-40x variable magnification
- 30mm main tube
- Recoil resistant components
- Smart Mil-Dot reticle
- Ultra-sensitive Gen 4 640×480 thermal sensor
- Smart shooting solution
Pros
- Intuitive applications for enhanced functionality and performance
- Advanced optical system for an extraordinary hunting experience
- Unbeatable resolution delivers amazing HD images
- Powerful scope capable of handling several hunting applications
- A ballistic calculator enhances accuracy and shooting precision
Cons
- Expensive
- Doesn’t qualify as an entry-level riflescope
5) ATN ThOR 4 2.5-25x50mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope
Another best thermal scope with rangefinder on our list is the ATN ThOR 4 2.5-25x50mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope. It brings to the table an array of high-quality and nice features which make it ideal for hunting, shooting and military use.
The scope boasts Gen 4 640×480 sensor which enhances nighttime sensitivity for better image detection. With this sensor, you will be able to quickly and spot animals in any environment both day and night.
This thermal scope also has a ballistic calculator to help you plan your shots, a smart Mil-Dot reticle that is easy to adjust through the entire zoom range and a smart rangefinder that tells you how far your targets are.
Another thing that makes this thermal scope stand out is the user-friendly design. First, it is designed with classical ergonomics to help make your shooting experience simple and familiar. It is also easy to mount, sight and shoot.
Furthermore, it has a One-Shot Zero function which makes sighting the scope quick and straightforward. Other notable features found in this rifle scope include an ultra-low-power profile, ATN radar, dual-stream video and a recoil-activated video.
Features
- Classical ergonomics
- One-Shot Zero
- Ultra-low power consumption
- Smart Mil-Dot reticle
- Ballistic calculator
- Smart rangefinder
- Recoil activated video
- Simple to mount, sight and use
- Ultra-sensitive next Gen sensor
- Auxiliary ballistic laser
Pros
- Low power consumption for extended hunting sessions
- Feature-rice optic for enhanced performance
- Easy to use
- Detects and identifies targets quickly
- Unbeatable resolution and image clarity
Cons
- None so far
6) ATN ThOR 4 2-8x25mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope
The ATN ThOR 4 2-8x25mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope is your ideal option if you are a hunting and outdoor enthusiast hunting for a premium thermal scope for short and medium-range applications.
It has a variable 2-8x magnification which is ideal for close and mid-range shots. At close ranges, the scope provides a wide field of view and better target acquisition at longer ranges. It also boasts an ultra-sensitive next Gen 4 sensor to help you see your targets clearly through fog, smoke, heavy vegetation, and total darkness.
Another strength of the scope is that is built with ease of use in mind. It has a recoil-activated video which makes video recording as easy as a five-finger exercise. It also boasts a ballistic calculator to enhance accurate shot placement and with the One-Shot Zero function, you are assured of easy scope sighting.
Moreover, the scope has a lightweight design for easy portability and it is fully weather-resistant for use even during harsh weather conditions. In addition to everything else, this scope is built to last for ages. It has a hardened aluminum alloy housing with impact-resistant electronics to endure rough outdoor handling.
Features
- Weather-resistant
- One-Shot Zero function
- Hardened aluminum alloy housing
- Auxiliary ballistic laser
- Recoil activated video
- Ultra-low-power profile
- Ultra-sensitive next Gen 4 sensor
- Variable magnification power
- Impact-resistant electronics
- Ballistic calculator
Pros
- Picks up heat signatures making it ideal for night vision
- Feature-rich to enhance performance and functionality
- Different modes for a personalized hunting experience
- Capture every moment with the video recording
- Spin to zoom wheel facilitates quick and easy power changes
- Tactile buttons allow optimal control
- Dynamic reticle for an enhanced shooting experience
Cons
- Limited detection range for distant shooters
7) Steiner eOptics Nighthunter S35 1-8x Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope
If you are in the market for the best thermal scope with a rangefinder that offers excellent accuracy, speed and versatility, look no further than the eOptics Nighthunter S35 from Steiner. It is built with the latest technology to provide unprecedented visibility at night and during the day as well.
With this thermal scope, you will be able to detect pigs and coyotes past 2,000 yards and recognize a human as far as 450m away. In addition to that, the scope has a 640×480 thermal sensor which enhances nighttime sensitivity and a high-quality OLED display that guarantees comfortable observation even during length glassing sessions.
The Nighthunter S35 also features Hot spot tracking for easy target spotting and 9 reticle options suitable for use in various lighting environments. For added convenience, it has an easy zero process for simple scope sighting, 5 rifle profiles for holding zero in different rifles and a stadiametric rangefinder that shows you the size and distance of your targets.
To top it all, the scope has a rugged and reliable housing to withstand anything you throw at it and it is covered by a Steiner 2-year warranty so you are guaranteed that it is a quality product.
Features
- 6 color palettes
- Hot spot tracking
- Rugged durability
- Steiner 2-year warranty
- 5 rifle profiles
- Built-in stadiametric rangefinder
- Mobile app connectivity
- Picture and video recording
- 640×480 thermal sensor
- High-quality OLED display
Pros
- Unbeatable image crispness in total darkness
- Advanced vision technology
- Detects targets as far as 2000 yards
- Rugged design to withstand recoil and ensure durability
- Outstanding sensitivity and higher contrast
- Different reticle colors to cater to different shooting scenarios
Cons
- Expensive
- Reduced power for the price
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How to Choose the Best Thermal Scope with Rangefinder
When shopping for the best thermal scope with rangefinder, here are some of the features you should put into consideration.
Sensor Resolution
When it comes to choosing the best thermal scope with rangefinder, it is best to choose one with a high sensor resolution. High resolution means the scope has more pixels which allows it to capture as much infrared light as possible.
This results in the formation of bright and high-quality image views. High resolution will also help you see further and spot small animals from a distance.
Refresh Rate
After sensor resolution, you should check the refresh rate that the scope you are eyeing has. Refresh rate refers to the number of images the thermal camera captures in a second. Generally, the higher the refresh rate the better.
You will be able to take up the animals’ movement as fast as possible and get clear sight pictures as well. A tip is to get a scope with at least a 50Hz refresh rate.
Magnification
Magnification in a thermal scope helps you to get up-close views of your targets without getting close to them physically. Typically, the best magnification will depend on what you intend to use the scope for and how far you will be shooting.
If you typically hunt at long ranges, you should get a model with high magnification. But if you are looking to use the scope at close and mid-ranges, a model with 8x magnification will do.
Price
Generally, thermal scopes are more expensive than night vision scopes and standard scopes. With a quality thermal scope, you will have to pay about $1,000 for the entry-level models and more than $2,000 for a professional-grade model. Generally, the more you spend on a thermal scope, the better the features it will provide.
Battery Life
All thermal scopes out there are powered by batteries. The only difference is how long the batteries last. To get the most out of your hunting or shooting expedition, go for a scope that offers more than 8 hours of battery life. It will be enough to last you for a full night.
Read: Best 338 Lapua Scopes
How Do Thermal Scopes Work?
Thermal imaging rifle scopes elevate the basic functionality of the scope by allowing visibility in complete darkness. A thermal scope uses heat signatures to create images. Infrared radiation is emitted by objects and is usually detected as heat.
Thermal riflescopes are fitted with infrared detectors that pick up the infrared radiation emitted by objects such as an animal or a person. The device then uses IR radiation to create a thermogram.
What opportunities has this technology provided? In a nutshell, limitless. Through thermal imaging, a shooter can now see objects at night, when it’s raining, in foggy areas and snowfall. A decade ago, that was a mirage.
Read: Best Scopes for Prairie Dog Hunting
Benefits of Having a Thermal Scope with Rangefinder
- Enhanced shooting accuracy. A rangefinder shows you the size of the target and how it is so you can plan your shot
- With a rangefinder built into the thermal scope, you don’t have to keep switching between the scope and a separate rangefinder. It also saves you the hassle of carrying a separate range finder.
- Saves you money. Buying a scope with a built-in range finder saves you the trouble of buying a rangefinder separately.
Conclusion
After reading this guide, you are probably at a crossroads and you are unhinged on whether to go the cheap route or the pricier way. Take your time and way all the options on the table. The goal is to find the best thermal scope with rangefinder that offers the most realistic and practical solution as per your needs and requirements.
We do hope that you have found the information in this article useful. Remember that what you plan to use the thermal scope for will determine which model you get. Identify your hunting/shooting needs then choose a model that aligns with those needs and your preferences as well.