4 Best Clip On Thermal Scopes

Are you looking for an exceptional scope for your rifle? I highly recommend the clip-on Thermal Scope, especially for hunters who want excellent performance in environments with low light visibility.

Sometimes, you may not have planned to hunt late into the night. But you find yourself in an unavoidable situation in which you have to hunt into late hours. It’s most likely that you’ll be frustrated if you have poor vision of your target. To cap it all, if your rifle’s night vision mode is poor, you may altogether quit the adventure.

On the flip side, it may not be a coincidence. You could intentionally set out on a night hunting. Understandably, some prey are easier hunted at night. If you embark on this adventure with just a rifle with a night vision, you may encounter unforeseen challenges detecting your target.

Well, some of these challenges are understandably natural.So, rather than hunt with a rifle with a substandard night vision, why not opt for a thermal scope? I assure you that you won’t have to face those challenges that come with hunting at night once you purchase the right clip-on thermal scope. The clip on thermal scope is just so impressive in its operation.

Here are our top three reliable and durable best clip on thermal scopes.

Top 3 Best Clip On Thermal Scopes

One thing to note is that when you appropriately fix a clip-on thermal scope on your rifle, you won’t have to be worried about it slipping off in action. Hunters mostly use thermal scopes because it is an advanced form of good vision needed for rifles in the dark. If you want to see more clearly at night, even when there is not a sight of light, this scope enhances vision for outstanding performance.

With an excellent scope like the clip-on thermal scope, even if the magnification is low, you will still be able to get long-range shots. This scope is better than many night vision scopes in many ways. Changes in temperatures greatly affect a thermal scope; it is not a harmful effect but a good one. I call this scope a fantastic scope because it works on heat energies. You can’t find another scope with the same features as this one.

The advantage the thermal scope has is that it works with zero light, unlike the Night Vision. Night vision will not work without any glimpse of light. In the next section, we’ll check out some of the necessary features to select the best clip-on thermal scope.

What to Look out for in Selecting the Best Clip-on Thermal Scope?

In picking out the best thermal scope for your rifle, it is essential you pay rapt attention to the critical features needed in performing well in hunting. Some scopes lay down annoying problems for users, and it won’t be favorable if you choose a scope randomly. It is advisable to carry out detailed research before you pick out a thermal scope. Selecting a great scope is a huge task, but it is possible once you focus on the essential things.

Here is a list of some essential things to look out for to assist in making a perfect selection.

MAGNIFICATION

A scope’s magnification is essential to its performance in a range. Being able to magnify images well will help you in meeting targets more accurately. I suggest that you choose a thermal scope with a higher magnification.

A low magnification will result in poor performance in your hunting spree. The higher the magnification of your thermal scope, the higher your chances of getting shots at aim points.

DURABILITY

Trust me, I know how it feels when you purchase a costly scope, and later on, you just discover that the scope does not work as you thought it would. That would be so annoying. So I advise that you check if the thermal scope is well built/constructed. Some thermal scopes are not durable and tough enough. Many hunters prefer a scope that they can use in harsh conditions. The scope should withstand shock, especially when it comes to a state of rugged use. Military thermal scopes are the best in the market.

Rather than an expensive one without the capacity to retain impact, it is best to purchase a lower price scope, with sufficient resistance to impact. When you have a thermal scope capable of withstanding extreme conditions, you’ll enjoy a consistent, exciting hunting experience.

SENSITIVITY

One of the critical things to consider in selecting the best thermal scope is its sensitivity. And the sensitivity of a thermal scope is determined by the NETD, which is very vital. Thermal scopes can detect the smallest difference in the temperature of your targets with the NETD. For you to get more sensitivity, your NETD must be smaller enough. The rule is straightforward; the smaller the NETD, the more sensitivity you get.

Most hunters need a sensitive scope to get a good grip on targets. Detecting animal temperatures will be easy for hunters. Albeit, it is better if used in military operations.

RETICLE

You can only get your target with a clear, crisp, and excellent reticle. Reticles included in thermal scopes vary alongside the manufacturer of a product. I suggest that you get a scope that has the right reticle perfect for the job.

In choosing a good thermal scope, you must look at the product, paying attention to the kind of reticle included. Some reticles can be so bad, no matter how appealing its spec may seem. More importantly, you have to select what best suits your need, be it hunting, sporting, or any other shooting activity.

COST

Scopes vary in prices. While some are expensive, you can also find inexpensive ones. You have to know that purchasing an expensive scope does not necessarily mean it will work as you require it. You’ll often discover it is the inexpensive scopes that will do the best job at acquiring targets and sighting in clearly. I highly recommended that you do not pick a scope based on its price, but instead, it’s quality. Quality is best placed over cost because you don’t have to worry about the cost when you have the best thermal scope at hand.

It would help if you were on the lookout for a durable and reliable scope as some products may be fakes. I advise that you check amazon and even purchase from them.

4 Best Clip On Thermal Scopes (Ranked And Reviewed)

1. Pulsar Helion XP Thermal Monocular

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 12.75 x 5 x 4.5 inches
Weight: 2.75 pounds

This scope comes with high technological features that include a built-in WiFi and stream vision app observer. You can use it in a wide range of applications such as hunting, scouting, etc. The Pulsar Helion XP is one of the best clip-on thermal scopes for hunters, especially in increasing shooting capabilities.

This Pulsar Helion includes a wide range of operation temperatures allowing it to be also used effectively even in low temperatures. It also includes a 680×480 resolution making it resistant to water, dust, and fog. With this thermal scope, you will detect animals/objects’ heat signatures up to 2000yards away. I highly recommend this scope for hunters in getting better and faster targets in any range.

The Pulsar Helion XP Thermal Monocular enables easy viewing through dynamic and rapid motion. It is tested and trusted; the image quality is just excellent. I bet you won’t regret it if you purchase this scope.

Pros

Cons

2. ATN ThOR Smart Thermal Riflescope w/High Res Video, WiFi, GPS, Image Stabilization, Range Finder, Ballistic Calculator, and IOS and Android Apps

ATN ThOR-HD 384 1.25-5x, 384x288, 19 mm, Thermal Rifle Scope w/ High Res Video, WiFi, GPS, Image Stabilization, Range Finder, Ballistic Calculator and IOS and Android Apps

106 Reviews

ATN ThOR-HD 384 1.25-5x, 384×288, 19 mm, Thermal Rifle Scope w/ High Res Video, WiFi, GPS, Image Stabilization, Range Finder, Ballistic Calculator and IOS and Android Apps

Excellent Image Performance with 384×288 Sensor – it is the ideal night vision scope because it detects heat energy, instead of light. The technology allows you to see clearly in complete darkness
Ballistic Calculator – the system allows you to calculate the trajectory of your bullet, helping you to hit the target. It helps to improve your shot placement by adjusting your Point of Impact

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 10 x 6 x 6 inches
Weight: 2 pounds

The sensor of the ATN ThOR Smart Thermal Riflescope is just excellent in its performance. In total darkness, the sensor allows you to see clearly, isn’t that fantastic? This scope has the best features needed for a rifle to work more efficiently.

Its features majorly involve advanced technologies that include a Ballistic Calculator, which allows you to calculate your bullet’s trajectory, helping you to hit your target. To find your range easily without stress, I suggest that you make use of the ThOR Smart thermal riflescope.

The scope has a Built-in smart range finder, and using it will improve your shooting skills. If you need a clip-on thermal scope that records, this scope is the best you can find in the market. It comes with a high-resolution video recording and photos.

Pros

Cons

3. Pulsar Helion Thermal Monocular

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 11 x 5 x 5 inches
Weight: 2.251 pounds

Shooting activities, either professional or nonprofessional, is enhanced with this monocular. It is perfect for any shooting exercise. The monocular is better than a scope in that it improves your performance as a shooter/hunter. LE personnel have field-tested it, and they also recommend it for use.

The imager includes a 4x digital zoom allowing for excellent image clarity. It also features multiple color viewing modes. Above all, its construction includes IPX7 waterproof, dustproof, and fog proof to withstand different weather conditions. Some people take this as a sight/riflescope, but it is a thermal imager.

Designed for quick and easy operation, Pulsar Helion comes with a detailed manual you can always check. The monocular icon and menu bar are displayed, making it possible not to lose focus on a target. The packaging is just right. This clip-on thermal scope includes advanced technology capable of working with iOS and Android operating systems.

Also included is a remote control, and the scope is capable of live internet streaming. If you are looking for the perfect scope for your hunting, this clip-on is worth the money. Although it can also be used in home defense and other activities aside shooting.

Pros

Cons

4. Pulsar Helion Thermal Monocular

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 11 x 5 x 5 inches
Weight: 14.1 oz

This scope is like the former product; it is durable and allows for more comfortable and quick performance. Its features include a 384×288 resolution, a picture in picture digital zoom, and 17um pixel pitch core with 2000 yards range detection. One benefit of the thermal monocular is when viewing images remain the same way they were at a favorable temperature. The sighting has been made easy with this monocular with clarity at its peak. It also has a wide range of operating temperatures.

Thermal imaging is now made easy with the Pulsar Helion Thermal Monocular. Hunters and other shooters are now at liberty to perform well with zero worries. You can record all your moves as It includes a built-in video recording. For hunters that cannot go a day without hunting even when it is rainy, the Pulsar Helion is perfect as it has waterproof, fog proof, and dustproof construction for all situations. I assure you that this is the right and best thermal scope worth the money.

Pros

Cons

FAQs

Is it helpful to switch your hand between rifle and thermal monocular?

You can switch your hand between the rifle and the thermal monocular if it works for you with no issues detected later on.

Does the clip on thermal scope provide extra safety for hunters?

Yes, it does. Mainly hunters prefer to use scopes ruggedly because of how they operate. Hunting is not just a simple activity, and thermal scopes provide just the needed performance.

How much can increase the range, a clip on a thermal scope?

That depends solely on the magnification on it. Some scopes may have the right level of magnification needed for long-range while some don’t. A higher magnification around 16-24x will be good enough.

Conclusion

Hunters use thermal scopes because of their versatility at getting shots more accurately in the dark. Unlike the night vision, the clip on thermal scopes beat all protocols and performs excellently well. In taking down targets quickly, your rifle needs all the support it can get, and a clip-on thermal scope fulfills this need. They are suitable for both day and night hunters. The clip-on thermal scopes use sensors to capture the heat of objects in your range.

Even when a target has left a particular spot, the scope can still detect that it was there before, giving you insights to where the target might have moved. Most times, these scopes come with internal reticles. It is advisable to use a thermal scope as it has advanced features and controls just perfect for the job. You can now record all your activities with a video recorder or steam live with this scope. The scope is one of the best scopes in the market worth the money.

Because of their exceptional features, thermal scopes usually don’t come cheap. It is better than other scopes in that it does not need a focusing eyepiece before it can sight in an image. Shooting is made easy as you can pick up heat temperatures and target clearly and more accurately. The clarity of thermal scopes must be at its peak, and of course! They are. With a thermal scope, your intended goal is achievable. You have to point out what you want in the scope before selecting it.

You can use good Clip-on thermal scopes any time of the day, whether day or night. I assure you that with a thermal scope, you can forget about applying night vision. In zero lighting, thermal scopes will give you great HD images and clear targets. Experience incredible shooting with your clip-on thermal scope up to a range of 1000 yards with no distraction.

Author Profile

Gabriel Tackett

Double major in Engineering and Geology at the University of Minnesota. Experienced shooter & hunter for over 15 years. Certified NRA officer for over 10 years working as a writer at Ballachy.com .