If you have ever seen that moon predator, I’m sure you have wondered about thermal vision. Night vision scopes endow you with the capability to glimpse objects at night or in darkness, even at distances of up to countless hundreds of yards.
With a high-quality night vision scope attachment, hunting in low light is uncomplicated. You can focus on doing what you do best: picking out targets and squeezing off accurate shots.
These powerful scopes become your virtual eye on pitch-black nights and provide you a clearer view of your subject to maximize your success rate. There are many thermal night-vision scopes available on the market for hunting, with different specs. Besides, to help you choose the right one, we have listed the best 5-night vision scopes, that you’ve been used to elevate your game.
Contents
- 1 5 Best Night Vision Scope Quick List
- 2 TOP 5 Best Night Vision Scope Attachments
- 3 Night Vision Scope Attachment Buyers Guide
- 4 Characteristics of Night Vision
- 5 Explanation of the Generations of Night Vision
- 6 How far can you see?
5 Best Night Vision Scope Quick List
| Scope Image | Scope | Price |
|---|---|---|
 |
ATN ThOR 4, 384x288, Thermal Rifle Scope w/Ultra Sensitive Next Gen Sensor | Check Price |
 |
PRG Defense Comanche 40 NW Gen 2 | Check Price |
 |
PRG Defense Comanche 22 3NL1 Gen 3 | Check Price |
 |
ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope | Check Price |
 |
Pulsar Core RXQ30V | Check Price |
TOP 5 Best Night Vision Scope Attachments
1.ATN ThOR 4, 384×288, Thermal Rifle Scope w/Ultra Sensitive Next Gen Sensor
They found ATN in 1995, and today is the leading tech optics company that is revolutionizing the industry with its great quality optics, and equipment that are used by outdoor enthusiasts all over the world. By combining an ultra-aged sensor with obsidian for the dual-core processor, it records your shooting moments in thousand ATP up to six difference per second so that you never miss a moment.
It comes in the ballistic calculator which makes sure your shot hits the target every time. Guitar 4 offers an enhanced Asian ideation mode to ensure the darkness does not slow you down.
This scope cannot only stream video to your mobile device at Asian resolution by Wi-Fi, but it can also record, to the SD card eyesight to maximize your performance.
Its recoil-activated video takes care of all of your words, just relax and focus on your game, and let the Obsidian tour to the heavy lifting. Built like a tank, the ATM tour comes in a wetter risk of instruction, which gives you the ultimate advantage to use it in harsh weather without any problem. pack with a powerhouse battery it can run for over 18 hours non-stop to ensure you never miss a moment in a hunting game.
Features
– The new Obsidian IV Dual-core processor
– 384×288 Thermal Sensor. Combined with the 1280×720 HD display, the image quality is good.
– Variable Magnification. The higher you go in magnification, the longer the detection range, and the closer you can get to prey. However, the price also goes up.
– 60Hz Refresh Rate. With the 60Hz ThOR 4 scope, you can keep up with a moving target.
– 90 mm Eye Relief
– Ballistic Calculator and Range Finder. The ballistic calculator uses altitude and environmental conditions (windage, pressure, humidity, and temperature) and your gun’s profile to calculate an accurate bullet path.
– Built-In Video Recording with Dual Streaming.
– 18-Hour Battery Life
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | The image is not as sharp. |
| Easy to use | |
| Easy to Mount | |
| One-shot zero | |
| Value for money | |
| High-Resolution | |
| Ballistic Calculator | |
| Durable Construction | |
| Ultra sensitive Gen 4 sensor | |
| Dual Stream Video Recording | |
| Easy navigation and menu system |
2. PRG Defense Comanche 40 NW Gen 2
The PRG Defense Comanche 40 NW Gen 2 is a snap-on night vision scope attachment designed to be adaptable and user-friendly. The Comanche 40 is a versatile model since we can mount it on many scopes meant for daytime usage that have a magnification of a maximum of 12 times.
Since you just mount the PRG Defense clip-on, there is no need to re-zero it, as it does not alter the eye relief. It uses the “White Phosphor” filter, providing you with black and white images. This clip-on night vision scope attachment also provides a range of 10 meters and beyond and has an image resolution of 55-72 lp/mm.
For improving the precision and accuracy of the shooters, the attachment has LED indicators, detachable long-range IR illuminator grain control that’s operated as well as a long-range illuminator that can be detached.
It comes with all the standard extras such as bright light switch-off functions, wireless remote control, and LED icons for monitoring things like battery life.
Features
– The PRG Defense Comanche 40 NW Gen 2 produces sharp views via the use of a high-performance Gen 2+ image intensifier tube.
– The PRG Defense Comanche is durable and long-lasting as it is waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-proof.
– The Comanche 40 runs on a lithium battery and has a battery light of up to 60 hours.
– Simple, quick conversion of daytime scopes to NVDs; Manual gain control.
– Mounts in front of any daytime scope, no re-zeroing required; Quick-release mount.
– Equipped with wireless remote control, Bright-light cut-off system
– Powered by a single Alkaline 1.5 V AA or 3 V CR123A Lithium battery
– It comes with a lens cloth and a carrying case for the device.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable | Among the heavier night scope attachments |
| Versatile | |
| Easy to use | |
| Sharp, clear images | |
| LED icons are intuitive and user friendly | |
| Easy to snap on and use in low/no light | |
| Snap/clip-on mount for easy use in the dark |
3. PRG Defense Comanche 22 3NL1 Gen 3
PRG Defense Comanche 22 3NL1 is a powerful model that’s long-lasting. Because it’s fog proof, waterproof, and shockproof, hunters can take it with them everywhere they go.
It makes this scope attachment of powerful stuff to ensure it can tolerate any knocks and accidents in low light.
The PRG Defense Comanche 22 clip-on is mounted into any daytime scope with magnification levels up to 7x.
The PRG Defense Comanche 22 3NL1 Gen 3 provides 47-54 Lp/mm image resolution and ten meters of range.
Among the top features they find useful at night is the intensifier tube, which handles the sharp views. This increases the precision when the light is low.
The lithium battery’s life at sixty hours.
Features
– LED indicators
– Manual gain control
– Quick-release mount
– Bright light cut-off system
– A detachable long-range IR illuminator
– Simple, quick conversion of daytime scopes to NVDs
– The wireless remote control bright-light cut-off system
– Mounts in front of any daytime scope, no re-zeroing required
– Powered by a single Alkaline 1.5 V AA or 3 V CR123A Lithium battery
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to mount | Quite heavy |
| Lots of features | |
| Durable construction | |
| Clear and crisp images | |
| Built to tolerate fog, rain, and heavy recoil | |
| Fast mounting (no fumbling even in the dark) |
4. ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope – Best Digital Night Vision Scope
It comes in two magnification configurations, either 5-20x, or 3-14x, and uses an Obsidian IV Dual-Core Processor with a low light Ultra HD 4K M265 sensor. This brings you the best pictures under all conditions.
Shooting it is easy, as a ballistic calculator helps you, and it even includes range and wind into the calculation.
Equipped with a standard 850nm IR flashlight, this ATN X-Sight is good for 150 yards, but you can use an included 30mm ring with rail to mount a more powerful illuminator that will provide you with a couple of hundred yards longer range.
Another benefit is that when you’re zooming, you won’t be seeing pixilations. The image quality is amazing. The resolution is high, the optics are fast, and the colors are vivid, so you can see everything.
Using a much better design, more like a riflescope and weighing 2.1 lb with batteries, the ATN X-Sight 4K PRO, mounted on a basic AR with a 16″ barrel, will make a handy and lightweight combination for almost any hunting scenario.
Features
– Weather-Resistant
– Smart Range Finder
– 18+ Hour Battery Life
– Smart Mil-Dot ReticleDual Stream Video Recording
– Ultra-Low Power Consumption
– Ultra HD 4K Sensor with our Obsidian 4 Dual Core Processor
– The X-Sight 4K PRO offers an Enhanced HD Night Vision Mode.
– Recording/ Streaming. This scope will start to record a video before and after you take a shot
– Ballistic Calculator – Hunt by making sure your shot hits the target every time. Range, Wind, Multiple-Weapon Profile, Angle to target, Temperature, Humidity, plus more.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Magnification: Range 3 - 14x | Quality Control is Not Reliable |
| Generous Eye Relief of 90 mm | It Can Be Heavy With Another More Powerful IR Unit |
| 50 mm aim Lens Diameter | |
| The Robust Dual Core Processor | |
| Expected Battery Life (Li-ion) is 18+ Hours | |
| It Comes With an Included 850nm IR Infrared Illuminator |
5. Pulsar Core RXQ30V
The Pulsar Core RXQ30V riflescope is one of the designed riflescopes that have the immense capacity to deliver powerful shots with the help of its specifications that are made to serve to high ranged targets.
The Pulsar Core RXQ30V 1.6-6.4×22 Thermal Rifle Scope features three operating modes for different viewing conditions: City, Forest, and Identification.
Unlike tube-based night vision scopes, it does not require an external source of light and is not affected by bright light exposure.
The Pulsar Core RXQ30V allows you to save zero parameters for three types of rifles or distances, along with a super-fast video FREEZE function to give you one-shot zeroing capability.
It delivers a quality heat signature image at over 980 yards away and combines it with Picture in Picture technology so you can see both the field of view and a close-up of your target point.
Features
– High-resolution 384×288 core
– They have designed it with the employment of the special set of the aim lens that has a diameter count of 20 mm
– IRIS technology increased recognition, and detection software produces green sapphire tinted heat signatures.
– Frost-resistant green OLED display and a detection range of over 950 yards.
– Choose manual, semi-automatic, or automatic calibration modes.
– Picture-in-picture digital zoom is a proprietary feature that ensures repeatable precision
– choose from 13 different electronic reticles and save 3 rifle profiles with 5 different zero saves each.
– The IPX7-rated waterproof body guarantees optimal performance in less than perfect conditions.
– FREEZE zeroing is a fast, simple way to get your scope zeroed with a single shot.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The perfect holding of zero | Lacks an aim focus |
| High-quality image results | Not effective beyond 300 ft. yards |
| Long-lasting battery power | |
| Easy to use control features | |
| The powerful snap of tightening the mount | |
| Advantage of the black and white scale | |
| Advantage of the clear thermal oriented image | |
| Efficient pick of heat signatures to long ranges | |
| Its weight is quite minimal to take easy hold of it | |
| Absolute view up to 250 ft. yards with immense clarity |
Night Vision Scope Attachment Buyers Guide
A night vision rifle scope attachment is essential in every nighttime hunter’s arsenal. With this, you will greatly improve your hunting skills as it seeks to improve your accuracy and aim.
For the night vision for rifle scope to be compatible with your equipment, you need to look at the mounting options. The range is also important, depending on what kind of prey you’re hunting, as you won’t be able to get close to all animals.
You can’t expect to buy just any premium glass or attachment and see a guaranteed improvement in your night shooting.
Therefore, it’s important to weigh your choice.
Image Quality
The best image to have is one with little distortion, a high definition, and excellent resolution. Most rifle scope night vision attachments offer lp/mm of 55 or more. The sharpest, clearest images require a spec closer to sixty 60 or 70. Again, it depends on what price you’re happy to pay for your accessory.
The superior night vision device displays a green monochrome image that is clearest in the center, blurring towards the edges. The human eye can perceive contrasts in green more than in other colors so this further enhances image quality.
With less distortion, you’ll see a flatter, less rounded view with a higher definition., the contrasts will enable you to perceive dark objects against darker backgrounds and the increased resolution will allow you to see identifying details instead of mere shapes.
Range
To view an object from a certain distance involves the system’s ability to magnify an image, its resolution, how much light is available, and the gain of the product.
A long, powerful lens will increase magnification, but not transfer light well. In conditions with less light, it requires more gain to view objects farther away, so using a high-speed lens with less magnification will allow more light to be captured and will increase the product’s range abilities.
Most users don’t need long-range capabilities in their products and are satisfied with 1x to 3x the normal image size. For example, a night vision product made for viewing objects at a close range 1x image size. This makes it easy for the user to view the subject without becoming disoriented.
Gain
As conditions get darker, it becomes more difficult for the night vision system to create a clear, well-defined image. As the light decreases or if there is a longer range, it becomes necessary to increase the gain.
If you are using a longer lens for distance viewing, you’ll need higher gain, as longer lenses do not transfer light and the shorter lenses.
Be aware that increasing the gain will not always increase the clarity or range of your view. In areas such as housing complexes, street or house lights will overload the system and decrease your viewing abilities.
IR Illuminators
Don’t forget, you need an IR illuminator of some description to squeeze off those accurate shots in the dark. If a night vision attachment doesn’t have one, it at least needs the mounting capabilities for one.
The bigger the illuminator, the more powerful it will be. Think about the trade-offs with weight and balance.
Weight and Size
If you will view for a long period, a lighter product will be more comfortable. Also, where you wish to carry your device will be difference when deciding on what size to purchase.
Practicality
If you will use your system on camping trips and other places where electricity is unavailable, make sure the battery corresponding to that system is available for purchase.
Durability
Of course, also note the construction of your night vision riflescope. Ensure that it’s made of high-quality materials and has the certificates. It’s best to look for a scope that is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.
Price
Night vision prices can range from $199 to $10,000. Think about how often and in what way you will use your product and thus how much you want to spend. A scope or monocular for $2,500 would be a fantastic piece of equipment to own, but you could also purchase a high-definition system that will satisfy all your needs for under $500.
Characteristics of Night Vision
Using intensified night vision differs from using regular binoculars and/or your own eyes. Below are some aspects of night vision attachment for a rifle scope you should know when you are using an image intensified night vision system.
Textures, Light, and Dark
Objects that appear light during the day but have a dull surface may appear darker through the night vision unit than objects that are dark during the day but have a reflective surface. For example, a shiny dark-colored jacket may appear brighter than a light-colored jacket with a dull surface.
Depth Perception
Night vision does not present normal depth perception.
Fog and Rain
Night vision responds to reflective ambient light; therefore, the light reflecting off of fog or heavy rain causes much more light to go toward the night vision unit and may degrade its performance.
Honeycomb
This is a faint hexagonal pattern which results from the manufacturing process.
Spots*
A few black spots throughout the image area are also inherent characteristics of all night vision technology. These spots will remain constant and should not increase in size or number. See the example below of an image with black spots.
Do not be concerned if you see this feature-it is an inherent characteristic found in light amplification night vision systems that incorporate a micro-channel plate in the intensifier.
Gen Version
There are four generations of night scope attachment available at this point, with four representing the most advanced.
Explanation of the Generations of Night Vision
Generation 1
Is the most popular type of night vision scope in the world. Using the basic principles described in my How Night Vision Works article, a 1st generation scope will amplify the existing light several thousand times, letting you see in the dark. These units provide a sharp image at a low cost, which is perfect, whether you are boating, observing wildlife, or providing security for your home.
Things you may notice when you are looking through a 1st generation scope. These are inherent characteristics of a 1st gen and are normal.
A slight high-pitched whine when the unit is on.
The image you see may be blurry around the edges. We know this as Geometric Distortion.
When you turn a 1st gen off, it may glow green for some time.
Generation 2
Is primarily used by law enforcement or for professional applications. This is because the cost of a 2nd gen unit is $500.00 to $1000.00 more than a 1st generation model. The fundamental difference between a 1st and a 2nd generation unit is additional of a micro-channel plate, referred to as an MCP. The MCP works as an electron amplifier and is placed directly behind the photocathode. The MCP comprises millions of short parallel glass tubes. When the electrons pass through these short tubes, it releases thousands of more electrons. This extra process allows 2nd generation units to amplify the light many more times than the 1st generation giving you a brighter and sharper image.
Generation 3
Is the latest in night vision technology. By adding a sensitive chemical, it achieved gallium arsenide to the photocathode a brighter and sharper image. However, it is more expensive than the 1st or 2nd generation. a 3rd generation unit will cost more than $2000.00.
Generation 4
Gated Filmless technology represents the biggest technological breakthrough in image intensification of the past 10 years. By removing the iron barrier film and Gating the system, Generation 4 demonstrates substantial increases in target detection range and resolution, at low light levels. As you can expect, prices above $3000.
How far can you see?
Many variables can affect the distance that you can see with a Night Vision device.
What are you trying to see? Are you looking for another boat on the water or are you looking for a rabbit in the woods? The larger the object, the easier it is to see. Plus, are you trying to see details (what we call recognition range), or are you just trying to see if something is there, or maybe you will just see movement but won’t be able to 100% determine who or what it is. They call this a detection range.
Another variable is lighting conditions. The more ambient light you have (starlight, moonlight, infrared light) the better and further you will see You can always see further on a night where the moon and stars are out than if 11 is overcast. We state that you can tell the difference between a male and a female or a dog and a deer at about 75 to 100 yards.
However, if you were looking across an open field and there was a half-moon out, you could see a barn or a house 500 yards away.
