Thread: Thermal Monocular

Originally Posted by Doghead

ok - The boy wants a new toy and clearly has money to burn - and yes the early bolt action .22 did a lot

BUT - if he really does want to spend - it is a case of helping him down the best path - so all comments are of assistance as to which direction to go.

I'm not sure what the spotlight enthusiasts' point is. Yes, you can still hunt quite effectively with a spotlight, but it's not more efficient than having some kind of thermal assistance. Anyone who thinks otherwise can insert their own insult here.

I would suggest your friend save up and invest in a dedicated low magnification wide FOV thermal scope when possible. If long-range capability/large game hunting/dusk-dawn spotting isn’t a priority, a wide FOV and low base magnification is more advantageous for critter control, as it makes scanning significantly easier.

As Sika8 alludes, transitioning from a thermal spotter to a scope (whether NV or spotlight) is less efficient, but it’s by no means ineffective. Thermal spotters can track critters into stationary positions, for example following possums into trees. Once cornered, switching to a rifle becomes practical.
Spotting and shooting with a single unit can be more productive, provided it offers enough detail to identify the target and sufficient FOV to reduce excessive scanning. While scanning with a scoped rifle is more challenging than using a standalone thermal spotter, it shouldn't be too troublesome if hes not an old fella.


Ignore the spotlight purists. Definitely encourage the thermal purchase, whatever he chooses will be an upgrade and will undoubtedly help.
I won't suggest a specific model because there are many options on the market right now and it depends if he goes for a monocular, binos, spotter or a scope.