When it comes to choosing a thermal scope, especially on a budget, there are a lot of factors to consider. These scopes are crucial for hunting at night or in low-light conditions, making them a powerful tool for those of us dealing with pests, hogs, or just looking to extend our hunt into the twilight hours. Below, we’ll go through some of the top contenders, ranked from best to worst, to help y’all make an informed decision.
#1 ATN Thor LTV 256 2-6x – $995
If you’re looking for a solid, no-nonsense thermal scope that delivers crisp images and a reliable experience, the ATN Thor LTV 256 2-6x should be your top pick. With ATN’s Sharp IR technology, this scope delivers some of the best image quality you’ll find in this price range. The 256×192 resolution combined with the 2-6x magnification is perfect for hog hunting and varmint control, allowing you to spot targets at medium to long ranges with clarity. The simple controls, intuitive menu system, and solid battery life (around 10 hours) mean you’ll be able to focus on the hunt, not fiddling with your gear.
Pros:
- Sharp IR image enhancement gives a clean, detailed view, even in tricky conditions like fog or darkness.
- Versatile 2-6x zoom is ideal for both closer shots and medium-range targets.
- Lightweight, easy to mount, and well-suited for standard hunting rifles.
- ATN’s reputation for solid, durable tech with good customer support.
Cons:
- Image could lose a bit of sharpness at the higher zoom range.
- The lens cover isn’t as robust as some competitors.
Practical Advice: This is the best thermal scope for the price if you want something reliable for hog and varmint hunting. It’s especially great if you value image quality and ease of use.
#2 AGM Global Vision Rattler V2 25-256 – $995
Next up is the AGM Global Vision Rattler V2 25-256. This scope is a bit of a sleeper, offering good value for its price. The 256×192 resolution gives a solid image, and the 25mm lens provides a decent field of view for spotting targets at medium distances. While it doesn’t have quite the image clarity as the ATN Thor LTV, it holds its own, and it’s more than enough for most night hunting applications. The 2-8x magnification range gives flexibility for both close-quarters and longer-range shots, making it a versatile option.
Pros:
- Excellent build quality—this scope feels like it could handle some rough conditions.
- 2-8x zoom range is great for various shooting distances.
- Compact and lightweight, making it ideal for both hunters and shooters who like mobility.
Cons:
- The image quality, especially in very low light, isn’t as sharp as the ATN Thor LTV.
- Battery life could be a bit better for those long nights in the field.
Practical Advice: A solid mid-tier choice for hunters who want something reliable without breaking the bank. Great for general hunting, though you might want something sharper for extreme conditions.
#3 ATN Thor LTV 256 1.5-4.5x – $879
The ATN Thor LTV 256 1.5-4.5x is a slightly scaled-down version of the 2-6x model, but it still packs a punch. With the same Sharp IR tech, you’re getting exceptional image clarity in any conditions. The smaller 1.5-4.5x magnification range makes it better suited for close-range hunting, but it’s still solid for those mid-range shots. The overall design is sleek and user-friendly, with ATN continuing to prove why they are a favorite in the thermal market. However, the smaller magnification range means it’s not as versatile for those longer shots.
Pros:
- Sharp IR provides excellent image enhancement in all light conditions.
- Great value at a lower price point, ideal for hunters who need something simple and effective.
- User-friendly with a good design.
Cons:
- The 1.5-4.5x zoom might feel limiting if you want more reach.
- Slightly lower battery life compared to the 2-6x model.
Practical Advice: This is a great choice for hunters who mostly deal with close-quarters shots. It’s light, portable, and ideal for varmint and hog hunters.
#4 RIX Storm S1 – $699
The RIX Storm S1 comes in at the lowest price point of the bunch, but don’t let that fool you—it still has its uses. The 256×192 resolution gives a decent image, though it’s a bit on the grainy side compared to the more expensive options. The 1.5-5x magnification range is decent for short-range and mid-range shots, but the overall clarity of the image could definitely be better, especially in low light. It’s a solid scope if you’re just getting into thermal or don’t need all the bells and whistles of higher-end models.
Pros:
- Affordable and functional—good option for beginners or budget-conscious hunters.
- Compact and lightweight, easy to handle.
- Simple interface that’s easy to use for anyone new to thermal scopes.
Cons:
- Image quality isn’t as sharp as other models in this review, especially in very low-light conditions.
- The zoom range is a bit limited for those wanting more flexibility.
Practical Advice: If you’re new to thermal optics and need something simple without a hefty price tag, this is a good starting point. However, if you’re serious about your hunting, you might want to invest a bit more for better image clarity.
#5 AGM Rattler TS19-256 – $845
Lastly, we have the AGM Rattler TS19-256. While this scope isn’t terrible, it falls short in a few areas. The 256×192 resolution is the same as some of the others on this list, but it doesn’t quite provide the sharpness needed in real-world hunting conditions. The 1.5-6x magnification range is decent, but it’s hard to get a good, clear image at the higher end of that range. Battery life isn’t amazing either, and while the build quality is fine, it just doesn’t feel as durable as some of the others.
Pros:
- Reasonably priced for the features it offers.
- Decent build quality and easy to mount.
Cons:
- Image quality is lacking, especially in very dark conditions.
- Battery life doesn’t hold up as well as some competitors.
Practical Advice: If you’re on a tight budget and don’t need the best clarity for your hunts, this could be an option. But if image quality and reliability are important to you, you might want to pass on this one.
Conclusion:
When it comes to thermal scopes, the ATN Thor LTV 256 2-6x takes the top spot for its combination of image quality, features, and practicality. If you’re hunting pigs, coyotes, or just want to extend your hunt into the night, any of these scopes can do the job, but some stand out more than others. Stay practical, keep your budget in mind, and choose what fits your style and needs. Happy hunting, y’all!