Thread: Thermal Optics under scrutiny?

I was reading through the latest info update from the NZAHAA and was surprised to see an update on "Thermal Imaging". I don't use them, not because I don't want to, but because I have no money to spend on such a specialised and expensive piece of kit right now. I am hoping to one day, so the following has me a little worried.

"Thermal Imaging, this again popped up and there is a “RFU” sub group (Recreational Firearms User Group) consulting on the use of thermal imaging optics for recreational users and also commercial cullers/pest controllers. Where this ends up remains to be seen, again, I will keep you updated of any progression in this area."

This was the first I'd heard of it, anyone else seen anything? Seems pretty ominous to me.

okay can you clarify a few things so one can start to get a grip on this - who or what is NZAHAA-- is RFU a sub group of that or some other organization or authority cheers thanks

See editors speil on first pages of latest rod n rifle magazine.... One sure way to alienate your customers/readers and hypocrisy in extreme to then run adverts of thermal gear.

Originally Posted by Barry the hunter

okay can you clarify a few things so one can start to get a grip on this - who or what is NZAHAA-- is RFU a sub group of that or some other organization or authority cheers thanks

NZAHAA is the NZ Antique and Historical Arms Association, they are one of the organisations invited to participate in the Firearms Community Advisory Forum. The issue of thermals was raised in the latest meeting (05/09/24) in Wellington.

ohh well keep us up to date

Originally Posted by Micky Duck

See editors speil on first pages of latest rod n rifle magazine.... One sure way to alienate your customers/readers and hypocrisy in extreme to then run adverts of thermal gear.

Cheers, just found it now. https://rodandrifle.co.nz/articles/a...-october-2024/

"Recently, I attended my first meeting of the Firearms Community Advisory Forum; it’s great to have a seat at the table and the ability to meet regularly to have our opinions, concerns and voices heard. One point I’m concerned about, which I raised, is the recent Department of Conservation approval of using handheld thermal devices during daylight on our public conservation land. I’d like to open a debate about this, as I don’t agree with it from a ‘fair chase’ point of view and, more importantly, I don’t believe it’s safe. I realise my opinion won’t be popular with some, however, I have strong views on it, and I’ll always stand up for what I believe. Long term, I think we need to be very cautious as to what technology we allow into hunting in NZ. I don’t believe thermals have a place on our public conservation land. Look for an upcoming article from me detailing my views on the ethical aspect, the spirit of hunting and my safety concerns."

That'll help me save for some thermals, won't waste money subscribing to that magazine.

That's a bit of a Luddite view alright.

Originally Posted by Marty Henry

That's a bit of a Luddite view alright.

"I don't like it, so others shouldn't be allowed it".... jeez where have I heard that recently?

Who gives a toss what Dave Benfell thinks.I suppose he or other fisherman from boats uses a fish finder to see fish in the dark deep waters .Hold it there,there might be a diver down there too.Can he tell the difference between big fish and a diver? it could be dangerous for the diver getting caught up in fishing lines or nets.Now we better have some strong views against using fish finders in conservation waters (Marine Habitats).Bet Dave Benfell has never used thermal monculars out on the hills trying to find game.Too miserable to spend a few k on thermal gear I reckon.

Originally Posted by Trout

Who gives a toss what Dave Benfell thinks.I suppose he or other fisherman from boats uses a fish finder to see fish in the dark deep waters .Hold it there,there might be a diver down there too.Can he tell the difference between big fish and a diver? it could be dangerous for the diver getting caught up in fishing lines or nets.Now we better have some strong views against using fish finders in conservation waters (Marine Habitats).Bet Dave Benfell has never used thermal monculars out on the hills trying to find game.Too miserable to spend a few k on thermal gear I reckon.

I agree, but the fact that he had the soapbox at the FCAF to preach from (and to the likes of GCNZ) means that his opinion will be heard, and likely latched onto and embellished, regardless of how baseless it is.

DOC have made their decisions on the use of thermal monoculars.To help reducing the pest numbers down damaging our forests.In the last ten years more people have been accidentally shot out hunting without thermal gear being involved than with thermal gear involved.If he thinks it not safe out hunting or fair chase,he should stay at home.His big loud opinions will fall on deaf ears.

Initially I thought ‘fuck you Dave Benfell’ but then again he’s allowed his opinion. Personally, when when culling animals I’ll use whatever equipment I can if it helps to get numbers. But when hunting recreationally the use of thermals is a no go for me. Using a thermal makes it ‘spot and shoot’, removes the hunting challenge. Hunting presently has never been easier compared to 80-90’s, handheld thermals aren’t needed. Just my opinion, others will probably disagree. Lastly, I no longer regularly buy Rod and Rifle and probably won’t while Benfell is the editor.

Originally Posted by Trout

DOC have made their decisions on the use of thermal monoculars.To help reducing the pest numbers down damaging our forests.In the last ten years more people have been accidentally shot out hunting without thermal gear being involved than with thermal gear involved.If he thinks it not safe out hunting or fair chase,he should stay at home.His big loud opinions will fall on deaf ears.

Very true, if it's not plain old mis-identification during the day, it's plain old criminal spotlighting at night that does it. If anything, thermal is probably safer to an extent, not that I am condoning either of the two.

Originally Posted by woods223

Initially I thought ‘fuck you Dave Benfell’ but then again he’s allowed his opinion. Personally, when when culling animals I’ll use whatever equipment I can if it helps to get numbers. But when hunting recreationally the use of thermals is a no go for me. Using a thermal makes it ‘spot and shoot’, removes the hunting challenge. Hunting presently has never been easier compared to 80-90’s, handheld thermals aren’t needed. Just my opinion, others will probably disagree. Lastly, I no longer regularly buy Rod and Rifle and probably won’t while Benfell is the editor.

Well opinions are like arseholes, everyone has one, even Dave Benfell. I've never hunted with one, but wouldn't go as far as to not use a monocular. I'd not go with a mounted thermal optic solely due to lack of versatility, dusk or dark (on private land) it'd be handy but during mid summer sun I think it would become a handicap.

“I'd not go with a mounted thermal optic solely due to lack of versatility, dusk or dark (on private land) it'd be handy but during mid summer sun I think it would become a handicap.”


Been there, done that. Using higher quality thermal scopes and adjusting colour palette, brightness and contrast to suit conditions they can be very effective during daytime use. Takes some getting used to but perfectly useful.
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We would have wallaby coming in the windows without them.