Coyotes are known for their cunning and nocturnal habits, making them a challenging quarry for hunters. Thermal scopes offer a significant advantage in coyote hunting by allowing hunters to see heat signatures in complete darkness. In this article, we’ll explore the top-rated thermal scopes for coyote hunting, highlighting their key features, pros, and cons.
Coyote hunting has become increasingly popular in recent years due to the growing coyote population. Coyotes can be a nuisance to farmers and ranchers, and they can also pose a threat to livestock and pets. Hunting coyotes is an effective way to manage their population and protect property.
Thermal scopes have revolutionized coyote hunting by providing hunters with the ability to see heat signatures in complete darkness. This allows hunters to locate coyotes in dense brush, thickets, and even at long distances. Thermal imaging also eliminates the need for artificial light, which can spook coyotes and other nocturnal animals.
Top 3 Best Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting
The Trijicon IR-HUNTER MK3 60MM is a high-performance thermal scope that is ideal for coyote hunting. It features a 60mm objective lens that provides a wide field of view and a high-resolution thermal sensor that produces clear and detailed images. The IR-HUNTER MK3 also has a long-range detection capability of up to 1,200 yards.
The AGM Secutor TS25-384 is a budget-friendly thermal scope that offers excellent value for money. It features a 384×288 thermal sensor that produces clear images and a long-range detection capability of up to 750 yards. The Secutor TS25-384 is also very compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry.
The ATN Thor 4 640 1-10x is a high-end thermal scope that is packed with features. It features a 640×512 thermal sensor that produces exceptional image quality and a 10x magnification range. The Thor 4 640 also has a number of advanced features, such as a ballistics calculator, a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, and a video recorder.
Features to Consider When Choosing a Thermal Scope for Coyote Hunting
- Thermal Sensor Resolution: The thermal sensor resolution is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a thermal scope for coyote hunting. A higher resolution sensor will produce clearer and more detailed images.
- Detection Range: The detection range is another important factor to consider. The detection range is the distance at which you can detect a coyote-sized animal with the thermal scope. A longer detection range will allow you to spot coyotes from a greater distance.
- Magnification: The magnification range is important if you plan on hunting coyotes at long distances. A higher magnification range will allow you to zoom in on your target and make a more precise shot.
- Battery Life: Battery life is an important consideration if you plan on using your thermal scope for extended periods of time. A longer battery life will allow you to hunt for longer without having to worry about recharging your battery.
Additional Tips for Coyote Hunting with a Thermal Scope:
- Practice with your thermal scope before you go hunting. This will help you get familiar with the operation of the scope and learn how to interpret the thermal images.
- Use a rangefinder to determine the distance to your target. This will help you ensure an accurate shot.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Thermal scopes can make it difficult to see obstacles in the dark. Be sure to scan your surroundings before taking a shot.
Conclusion – Best Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting
Thermal scopes are an invaluable tool for coyote hunting. By providing hunters with the ability to see heat signatures in complete darkness, thermal scopes allow hunters to locate coyotes and make accurate shots under any conditions.
Want to learn more about the latest outdoor hunting gear and techniques? Subscribe to the Outdoor Hunting Gear newsletter for regular updates on the best products and tips for success in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Best Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting
The best thermal scope for coyote hunting will depend on your individual needs and budget. However, some of the top-rated thermal scopes for coyote hunting include the Trijicon IR-HUNTER MK3 60MM, AGM Secutor TS25-384, and ATN Thor 4 640 1-10x.
Some of the most important features to consider when choosing a thermal scope for coyote hunting include thermal sensor resolution, detection range, magnification, and battery life.
Thermal scopes detect heat signatures, which are emitted by all living things. The thermal sensor in the scope converts these heat signatures into an image that can be seen on the scope’s display.
Thermal scopes offer a number of benefits for coyote hunting, including the ability to see heat signatures in complete darkness, longer detection ranges, and increased accuracy.
Thermal scopes range in price from around $500 to $5,000 or more. The price of a thermal scope will depend on the features and performance of the scope.
Thermal scopes are legal for coyote hunting in most states. However, it is important to check with your local regulations before using a thermal scope for hunting.
Some tips for coyote hunting with a thermal scope include practicing with your scope before you go hunting, using a rangefinder to determine the distance to your target, and being aware of your surroundings.