Coyote hunting demands specialized equipment that can perform in the most challenging conditions. When the sun goes down and these cunning predators become active, a standard day scope is no longer sufficient. A high-quality thermal scope becomes your most critical tool, allowing you to detect heat signatures through total darkness, light fog, and dense brush, giving you the decisive edge.
Choosing the right thermal scope, however, can be a complex decision. With varying sensor resolutions, detection ranges, and feature sets, it’s essential to match the technology to your specific hunting environment and style. This roundup cuts through the clutter to bring you a curated list of the top thermal scopes on the market, each evaluated for its ability to help you successfully and ethically hunt coyotes after dark.
Our Top Picks for Coyote Hunting Thermal Scopes
- ATN Thor LT 320 3-6x
- Pulsar Thermion 2 XQ50 Pro Thermal Riflescope
- AGM Global Vision Rattler TS25-384 Thermal Imaging Riflescope
- AGM Global Vision Varmint LRF TS35-384 Thermal Rifle Scope
- BURRIS Clip-On BTC 35 USM Thermal Vision Scope
- Trijicon Reap-IR 35 mm Thermal Riflescope
- Sightmark Wraith 4K Mini 4x Digital Night Vision Riflescope
- Pulsar Thermion 2 XG50 Thermal Riflescope
- Burris Optics BTH35 V3 Thermal Imaging Monocular
- ATN Thor 4 Thermal Rifle Scope 2.5-25x
ATN Thor LT 320 3-6x
The ATN Thor LT 320 is an excellent entry point into thermal coyote hunting. Its 60Hz thermal sensor provides a smooth image, allowing for fast target acquisition on moving animals. The ability to switch between White Hot and Black Hot display modes lets you customize the view to your preference and the specific conditions, ensuring a clear picture of your target against the background.
This scope is designed for simplicity and speed in the field. The One Shot Zero feature makes sighting your rifle a quick and straightforward process, saving valuable time. With multiple reticle options to choose from, you can select the aiming point that best suits your shooting style, making this a very user-friendly and capable thermal optic.
Pulsar Thermion 2 XQ50 Pro Thermal Riflescope
For hunters needing extreme detection range, the Pulsar Thermion 2 XQ50 Pro is a top-tier choice. Its high-quality germanium optics and advanced 384×288 thermal sensor work together to identify targets at distances of up to 2,000 yards. This incredible range gives you ample time to spot and stalk coyotes from a significant distance, even in pitch-black conditions.
This scope is packed with intelligent features that enhance the hunting experience. The Picture-in-Picture mode is particularly useful for precision shooting, as it magnifies the aiming point while still showing the full field of view. Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity with the Stream Vision 2 app allows for remote control, software updates, and live streaming directly to your smartphone.
AGM Global Vision Rattler TS25-384 Thermal Imaging Riflescope
The AGM Rattler TS25-384 is built to deliver high performance in harsh environmental conditions. Its high-sensitivity thermal detector and 1024×768 OLED monitor produce a clear, crisp image that cuts through darkness, fog, and rain. This reliability makes it an ideal companion for all-night hunts where weather can be unpredictable.
With a solid 384 × 288 thermal resolution, this scope provides the detail needed for positive target identification. Advanced image processing technologies, including Adaptive AGC and 3D DNR, work to reduce noise and enhance image quality, giving you a stable and clear picture. A battery life of up to 4.5 hours ensures you have enough power for an extended hunting session.
AGM Global Vision Varmint LRF TS35-384 Thermal Rifle Scope
This AGM Varmint model takes functionality a step further by integrating a laser rangefinder (LRF) directly into the scope. Knowing the exact distance to a coyote is critical for an ethical shot, and having this tool built-in eliminates the need for a separate device. The 12μm high-sensitivity thermal detector provides excellent image clarity for its class.
A fast 50Hz refresh rate ensures a smooth, lag-free image even when panning across a field or tracking a moving animal. With digital zoom options of 1x, 2x, 4x, and 8x, you can get a closer look at your target to confirm it before taking the shot. This combination of rangefinding and quality thermal imaging makes for a highly effective predator hunting system.
BURRIS Clip-On BTC 35 USM Thermal Vision Scope
The Burris BTC 35 offers a unique and versatile approach to thermal hunting. As a clip-on device, it mounts in front of your existing daytime scope, instantly converting your favorite rifle into a thermal-capable platform. This means you don’t have to sacrifice your daytime zero or familiar optic; you simply add thermal capability when you need it.
With a 400×300 resolution and 1x magnification, the BTC 35 provides a clear and wide field of view for detecting targets. This setup is perfect for hunters who want the flexibility to switch between day and night hunting without the expense and hassle of maintaining two dedicated rifles or re-zeroing a scope.
Trijicon Reap-IR 35 mm Thermal Riflescope
Trijicon is renowned for building some of the toughest and most reliable optics in the world, and the Reap-IR lives up to that reputation. Engineered for professional use, this scope is built to withstand heavy recoil and harsh environmental conditions, making it a durable long-term investment for serious predator hunters.
Featuring a 35mm lens, the Reap-IR is designed to deliver superior image quality and detection range. While specific features are often kept close to the vest by the manufacturer, Trijicon’s commitment to optical clarity and ruggedness is well-established. This scope is for the hunter who prioritizes absolute reliability above all else.
Sightmark Wraith 4K Mini 4x Digital Night Vision Riflescope
The Sightmark Wraith 4K Mini offers a high-resolution digital night vision solution. Its powerful 4K CMOS sensor captures objects up to 300 yards, presenting the detail on a high-quality 1280×720 display. While not a thermal scope, its digital imaging provides a very clear picture in low-light conditions, which can be sufficient for many coyote hunting scenarios.
Its compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable and convenient without sacrificing capability. A significant benefit is the built-in video recorder, which captures your hunts in 1080p or 4K resolution with audio. This is an excellent feature for those who want to document their experiences or review their shots.
Pulsar Thermion 2 XG50 Thermal Riflescope
The Pulsar Thermion 2 XG50 represents the high end of thermal performance for coyote hunting. It boasts an impressive detection range of up to 2,500 yards, giving you unparalleled situational awareness. Power is supplied by two rechargeable batteries, offering an extended runtime of up to 10 hours, which is more than enough for multiple nights of hunting.
The visual experience is top-notch, thanks to a high-resolution 1024×768 AMOLED display that provides a sharp and clear image. It supports five user profiles with ten zeroing distances each, making it easy for multiple users or for use on different rifles. With built-in video recording, Wi-Fi streaming, and an IPX7 waterproof rating, it is a fully-featured and robust thermal scope.
Burris Optics BTH35 V3 Thermal Imaging Monocular
While not a riflescope, the Burris BTH35 V3 thermal monocular is an invaluable tool for any coyote hunter’s kit. Use it as a handheld spotter to scan fields and tree lines for heat signatures before you even shoulder your rifle. This saves battery life on your main optic and allows for quiet, efficient scanning.
It features a 400×300 resolution and Burris’s Cybercore technology for detailed imaging. Useful features like picture-in-picture and hot spot tracking help in identifying and monitoring targets. With video recording, remote control via the BurrisConnect app, and an intuitive rotary dial for menu navigation, this monocular is a powerful and versatile thermal device.
ATN Thor 4 Thermal Rifle Scope 2.5-25x
The ATN Thor 4 series is known for its advanced feature set and high magnification range. The 2.5-25x model provides incredible versatility, allowing for wide-field scanning at low power and precise target identification and shooting at high power. This is particularly useful for open-country hunting where shots can vary dramatically in distance.
ATN scopes often include smart features such as ballistic calculators, built-in video recording, and rechargeable battery systems. This makes the Thor 4 not just an optic, but a comprehensive shooting system designed for the modern hunter who values technology and data to improve their accuracy and success in the field.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Thermal Scope for Coyote Hunting
When I’m looking for the best thermal scope for coyote hunting, I focus on a few key specs that make a real difference in the field. It’s easy to get lost in the numbers, but not all of them matter equally for hunting predators like coyotes. Here’s what I prioritize.
First up is sensor resolution. This is arguably the most important factor for image clarity. I look for a minimum of 320×240, but if my budget allows, I always go for 640×480. The higher the resolution, the sharper and more detailed the image. This lets me positively identify a coyote through brush or in low-light conditions at a much greater distance. A blurry blob could be a coyote, a fox, or even a neighbor’s dog; a clear thermal image tells me exactly what I’m looking at.
Next, I consider the detection range. Manufacturers often list a maximum range, but that’s for detecting a large, hot object like a vehicle. For coyote hunting, I’m more interested in the recognition range—the distance at which I can clearly make out the animal’s shape and confirm it’s a coyote. A good mid-range scope should allow me to recognize a coyote out to 150-200 yards, which covers most hunting scenarios. For open fields and longer shots, I’d want a scope capable of 300+ yards.
The lens is the window to the thermal world, so its size matters. A larger objective lens (e.g., 35mm or 50mm) gathers more infrared light, which translates to a better image and longer effective range. However, a bigger lens also means a heavier and more expensive scope. For most coyote hunting, a 35mm lens paired with a good 640 sensor is a fantastic balance. I also think about the display resolution. A high-definition OLED display makes the processed thermal image look crisp and clear to my eye, reducing strain during long glassing sessions.
Finally, I think about the practical stuff: battery life and ruggedness. There’s nothing worse than my scope dying in the middle of a hunt. I look for models that offer at least 5-6 hours of continuous use on a single charge, and I prefer models with removable, rechargeable batteries so I can carry spares. The housing needs to be nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed to be fog-proof and waterproof. After all, I’m often out in damp, cold conditions where electronics can fail. By balancing these features, I can find a thermal scope that fits my needs and budget for a successful coyote hunt. Choosing from the list of the 10 best thermal scope for coyote hunting – top models reviewed becomes much easier when you know what these specs mean for your actual time in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good detection range for coyote hunting?
For most coyote hunting situations, a scope that can reliably detect a coyote-sized heat signature at 300-400 yards is more than sufficient. The more critical number is the identification range, where you can clearly see the animal’s shape and posture. A quality 640 sensor with a 35mm or larger lens will typically let you identify a coyote between 150 and 250 yards, which covers the vast majority of shot opportunities. If you hunt in very open terrain, you might want to invest in a more powerful model for longer-range identification.
Can I use a thermal scope during the daytime?
Yes, you absolutely can. Thermal scopes detect heat, not light, so they work just as well in broad daylight as they do in total darkness. This can be a huge advantage for hunting coyotes that are moving during early morning or late afternoon hours. There’s no need to worry about a bright sun ruining the image like you would with a night vision device. However, you should never point any optical device, including a thermal, directly at the sun as it can damage the internal components.
How important is the refresh rate on a thermal scope?
The refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), is very important for a smooth image. A higher refresh rate, like 60 Hz, provides a fluid, real-time video feed that makes it easy to track moving coyotes or pan across a landscape without any jerky or laggy motion. Lower refresh rates, like 30 Hz, can appear choppy, especially when you are moving the scope quickly. For a fast-moving target like a running coyote, I find that a 60 Hz refresh rate makes a noticeable difference in my ability to stay on target.
Are thermal scopes legal for hunting coyotes in all states?
While thermal scopes are federally legal, game laws are determined at the state level. Most states allow the use of thermal and night vision technology for hunting non-game, predatory animals like coyotes. However, some states have restrictions, especially on public land or during certain seasons. It is my responsibility to check the current regulations with my state’s fish and wildlife department before heading out. Assuming it’s legal everywhere can lead to serious fines and penalties.
What’s the difference between a thermal scope and a thermal monocular?
A thermal scope is designed to be mounted on a rifle, zeroed like a traditional optic, and used to take shots. A thermal monocular is a handheld spotting device used for scanning and locating game. Many hunters, myself included, use both: a monocular for finding the coyote and a scope on the rifle for the shot. Some high-end models can even be used as both, but typically you’ll purchase them as separate tools. When reviewing the 10 best thermal scope for coyote hunting – top models reviewed, we focus on the rifle-mounted optics.
How do I zero a thermal scope?
The process is similar to zeroing a conventional scope, but you’re shooting at a thermal target. The easiest way is to use a specially designed heated target that creates a clear hot spot for your thermal to see. You shoot a group, adjust the reticle to match your point of impact, and confirm. It’s best to do this at dusk or dawn, as the temperature difference between the target and the background is most pronounced. Always ensure your rifle is unloaded and safe before starting the zeroing process.