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Do you want to buy the best thermal scopes for hog hunting but have no idea where to begin? I have been there, and I know how confusing it can get with so many options flooding the market.
Here is the thing about hog hunting at night: feral hogs are some of the most destructive animals in North America, responsible for over $2.5 billion in agricultural damage annually, and they are almost entirely nocturnal.
That means if you are serious about making a dent in the population on your property or a guided hunt, a quality thermal scope is not optional. It is essential. In this guide, I have rounded up eight of the best options available today.
I will walk you through the key features and give you an honest breakdown of what each scope does well and where it falls short.
By the end, you will have everything you need to make a smart, confident purchase.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 | 640×480 sensor, 50mm lens, 1800m detection range, Wi-Fi, Stream Vision 2 app | Check Price |
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Burris BTS35 v3 | 400×300 sensor, 35mm lens, 1-8x magnification, video recording, multiple palettes | Check Price |
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SIG Sauer Echo3 1-6×23 | 320×240 sensor, 23mm lens, 1-6x magnification, fast target acquisition, compact | Check Price |
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ATN ThOR 4 1.25-5x | 384×288 sensor, recoil activated video, ballistic calculator, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Check Price |
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ATN ThOR 5 | 640×480 sensor, Obsidian 5 dual core processor, smooth zoom, ultra low power mode | Check Price |
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Armasight Sidekick 640 | 640×480 sensor, 13mm lens, monocular and weapon mount capable, multiple palettes | Check Price |
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Armasight Contractor 640 3-12x50mm | 640×480 sensor, 50mm lens, 3-12x magnification, 1800m detection, multiple reticles | Check Price |
| Trijicon IR-HUNTER | 640×480 sensor, 12 micron pixel pitch, 60Hz refresh rate, MIL-SPEC, 1-8x magnification | Check Price |
Now that you have a quick snapshot of what each scope brings to the table, let me get into the details. Below, I break down each one individually so you can see exactly why it made this list, what makes it stand out in the field, and whether it is the right fit for your specific hunting setup. Let us dive in.
1) Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 (Best Overall Thermal Scope for Hog Hunting)

If you want the absolute best of the best, the Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 is the scope that serious hog hunters keep coming back to. Pulsar has long been one of the most respected names in thermal optics, and the Thermion 2 XP50 is the crown jewel of their lineup. This scope is built around a high performance 640×480 thermal sensor with a NETD value of less than 25mK, which essentially means it can detect the most subtle differences in heat signature. In practical terms, that translates to razor sharp images even in conditions where a lower quality sensor would produce a blurry, washed out picture.
The 50mm germanium lens is a big reason why this scope stands out for hog hunting specifically. Hogs are large animals, but they move fast and they often work in groups, which means you need a scope that gives you both range and field awareness. The Thermion 2 XP50 delivers a detection range of up to 1800 meters, which is exceptional. You are not going to find yourself in a situation where you can hear the hogs but cannot see them. The 4x base magnification with up to 16x digital zoom gives you plenty of flexibility whether you are shooting across an open field or threading a shot through a wooded area.
One of the features I genuinely appreciate about this scope is the Stream Vision 2 app integration via Wi-Fi. You can stream your live view to a phone or tablet, record footage, and even share it in real time with other hunters in your group. The onboard video recording is a nice addition for documenting your hunts. The battery life sits around 8 hours on a full charge, which is more than enough for a full night of hunting, and the IPX7 waterproof rating means rain and wet grass are not going to cut your hunt short.
What also sets this scope apart is how naturally it integrates into a traditional rifle setup. The Thermion 2 XP50 is designed to look and function just like a conventional riflescope. It mounts the same way, uses standard Weaver or Picatinny rails, and does not require any awkward adapters. For a hunter who values a clean, traditional setup but wants the power of premium thermal technology, this is as good as it gets.
Key Features
| Sensor Resolution | 640×480 |
| Lens | 50mm germanium |
| Detection Range | Up to 1800 meters |
| Magnification | 4x base, up to 16x digital zoom |
| Battery Life | Approx. 8 hours |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Stream Vision 2 app |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX7 |
| Video Recording | Built in onboard recorder |
Pros
- Exceptional image clarity with a 640×480 sensor and sub 25mK NETD rating
- Impressive 1800 meter detection range for wide open terrain
- Seamless traditional riflescope form factor with no awkward adapters needed
- Wi-Fi streaming and onboard video recording for documenting your hunts
- IPX7 waterproofing handles rain and wet field conditions without issue
- Up to 8 hours of battery life for full night hunts
Cons
- It sits at a premium price point that may not be accessible for every budget
The Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 is one of those pieces of gear that you buy once and rely on for years. If you are ready to invest in a thermal scope that will never let you down in the field, this is the one to get. Go check it out and see why it consistently tops the list among serious hog hunters.
2) Burris BTS35 v3 (Best Thermal Scope Designed Specifically for Hog Hunting)

The Burris BTS35 v3 was practically built with hog hunters in mind, and once you start using it in the field, you will understand exactly why it has earned that reputation. Burris is an American company with decades of experience building rugged, reliable optics for hunters and shooters, and the BTS35 v3 represents the latest evolution of their thermal line. This is a scope that gets the fundamentals right and then layers in thoughtful features that make a real difference when you are sitting in a ground blind at 2 AM waiting for a sounder of hogs to move into range.
The BTS35 v3 uses a 400×300 thermal sensor paired with a 35mm lens. That might sound modest compared to some of the 640 sensor scopes on this list, but for the typical hog hunting scenario, which usually involves shots at distances of 50 to 300 yards, this sensor performs brilliantly. The image is clean, the edges are sharp, and heat signatures are easy to identify even when hogs are partially obscured by brush or tall grass. The 1x to 8x magnification range is one of the most practical setups you will find in this class of scope. You can keep it at 1x for fast close shots when hogs come in tight, and crank it up to 8x when you need to reach out across a food plot.
One thing I want to highlight is how quiet this scope operates. That might sound like a strange thing to praise in an optic, but when you are dealing with smart, spooky animals like feral hogs, any mechanical click or electronic whir can blow your setup. The BTS35 v3 is engineered to keep noise to a minimum, and the button controls are smooth and deliberate without any loud tactile feedback. It also features multiple color palettes including white hot, black hot, and a color mode, so you can adjust based on ambient temperature and personal preference.
The scope records video directly to a micro SD card, which is a feature hog hunters love for reviewing sounder behavior and shot placement after a hunt. The battery system is straightforward and reliable, and the overall build quality is what you would expect from an American brand that has been serving the hunting community for over 50 years. For hunters who want a purpose built thermal scope that excels in the exact conditions hog hunting demands, the Burris BTS35 v3 is a standout pick.
Key Features
| Sensor Resolution | 400×300 |
| Lens | 35mm |
| Magnification | 1-8x |
| Color Palettes | White hot, black hot, color mode |
| Video Recording | Micro SD card recording |
| Operation Noise | Designed for quiet field operation |
| Ideal Range | 50 to 300 yards |
Pros
- Magnification range of 1x to 8x covers every typical hog hunting distance
- Quiet operation design prevents spooking smart, wary hogs
- Clean, sharp image quality for the 400×300 sensor class
- American brand with a strong reputation for durability and reliability
- Onboard video recording via micro SD card
- Multiple color palettes for different environmental conditions
Cons
- The 400×300 sensor, while capable, does not match the image resolution of 640×480 options at higher magnification
The Burris BTS35 v3 is a scope built for exactly the type of hunting you are doing. If you want something that feels like it was designed for the hog woods rather than a general purpose thermal optic, this one delivers. Go take a closer look and see if it fits your setup.
3) SIG Sauer Echo3 1-6x23mm (Best Thermal Scope for Close Range Shooting)

When hogs come in close and fast, you need a scope that can keep up. The SIG Sauer Echo3 1-6x23mm is the answer to that problem, and it approaches thermal optics from a completely different angle than most of the scopes on this list. SIG Sauer engineered the Echo3 as what they call a thermal clip on sight, which means it mounts in front of your existing daytime riflescope rather than replacing it. This is a concept that experienced hunters have been asking for, and SIG delivered a product that executes it cleanly.
The 1-6x magnification range with a 23mm lens makes the Echo3 one of the most nimble and fast handling thermal options available. At 1x power, you essentially get a wide open thermal view that lets you track moving hogs with both eyes open and a natural field of view. This is a massive advantage when hogs are running through your shooting lane at close range and you need to get on target instantly without fumbling with zoom settings. At 6x, you still have enough reach for ethical shots out to several hundred yards depending on your target size and ambient conditions.
The Echo3 uses an uncooled VOx microbolometer sensor with a 320×240 resolution. That is not the highest resolution on this list, but for close range shooting applications, it is entirely appropriate. The image is crisp enough to clearly identify a hog from a deer, to pick your aiming point, and to make confident shots. What SIG prioritized here is speed and simplicity, and they nailed it. The display sits behind your existing scope and is designed to work without degrading your daytime zero, which means you are not re-zeroing every time you swap back and forth from day to night.
Another thing worth mentioning is the build quality. SIG Sauer has deep roots in the defense and law enforcement world, and their standards for durability translate directly into this scope. The Echo3 is built to handle recoil from magnum cartridges, operates in extreme temperatures, and shrugs off moisture and dust. If you are hunting from a vehicle or making fast setups across multiple stands in one night, the simplicity of this design is a genuine tactical advantage. For hunters who prioritize speed and want a versatile option that does not force them to choose between thermal and optical clarity, the Echo3 is a compelling choice.
Key Features
| Sensor Type | Uncooled VOx microbolometer |
| Sensor Resolution | 320×240 |
| Lens | 23mm |
| Magnification | 1-6x |
| Mount Style | Clip on front focal mount |
| Daytime Zero | Non destructive to existing zero |
| Build Standard | Defense grade SIG Sauer durability |
Pros
- Clip on design works with your existing riflescope without affecting daytime zero
- 1x low end magnification allows fast, natural target acquisition at close range
- SIG Sauer defense grade build handles recoil and harsh conditions
- Simple and intuitive to operate under pressure in the field
- Versatile setup that transitions easily between day and night hunting
Cons
- The 320×240 resolution is the lowest on this list and noticeably limits image detail at higher magnification levels
If close range hog shooting is your primary mission, the SIG Sauer Echo3 brings something to the table that most scopes simply cannot match. Go check it out and see why it is one of the most practical thermal setups for fast action hunting.
4) ATN ThOR 4 1.25-5x (Best Budget Thermal Scope for Hog Hunting)

Not everyone is in a position to drop four figures on a thermal scope, and frankly, you should not have to be in order to hunt hogs effectively at night. The ATN ThOR 4 in the 1.25-5x configuration proves that point well. ATN has spent years developing smart optics technology, and the ThOR 4 is the result of that development packed into a scope that most hunters can actually afford. It is not the fanciest option on this list, but it punches well above its price tag in terms of features and practical performance.
At the heart of the ThOR 4 is a 384×288 thermal sensor, which delivers a solid image for the price range. The 1.25x to 5x magnification covers the sweet spot for most hog hunting scenarios, and the wide 1.25x low end setting gives you a broad field of view for scanning fields, food plots, and creek bottoms. ATN loaded this scope with a feature set that would have cost significantly more just a few years ago. The Recoil Activated Video, or RAV, automatically starts recording the moment you pull the trigger, which means you capture every shot on video without having to remember to press record. For hunters who like to review their shooting and share hunts with friends, this is genuinely useful.
The onboard ballistic calculator is another standout feature that you rarely see in this price class. You can input your ammunition data, and the scope adjusts your point of aim based on range, which is particularly helpful when you are making longer shots across open ground. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity let you pair the scope with the ATN app on your phone, giving you a secondary display, shot recording, and even a GPS track of your hunt. The one shot zero feature makes initial setup fast and frustration free, which is a welcome convenience when you are gearing up at last light.
The battery life on the ThOR 4 is decent, running around 10 to 18 hours depending on brightness settings and environmental temperature. Cold nights will reduce that figure, but for most hunts, you will have more than enough juice to get through the night. The scope is also rated to handle the recoil of heavy caliber rifles, which is important if you are running a .308 or larger for hog work. For hunters who want to get into thermal without breaking the bank, the ATN ThOR 4 is the most feature rich budget option on the market.
Key Features
| Sensor Resolution | 384×288 |
| Magnification | 1.25-5x |
| Video Recording | Recoil Activated Video (RAV) |
| Smart Features | Ballistic calculator, one shot zero |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ATN app |
| Battery Life | 10 to 18 hours depending on conditions |
Pros
- Most affordable scope on this list without sacrificing core functionality
- Recoil Activated Video automatically captures every shot
- Onboard ballistic calculator rarely found at this price point
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity with full featured mobile app
- Long battery life of up to 18 hours on a charge
- One shot zero system makes setup fast and simple
Cons
- The 384×288 sensor produces softer images compared to 640×480 options, which becomes noticeable at higher zoom levels
The ATN ThOR 4 proves that you do not need to spend a fortune to hunt effectively with thermal. If budget is a real concern but you still want a capable, feature loaded scope for hog hunting, this is your pick. Go take a look and see just how much value ATN has packed into this scope.
5) ATN ThOR 5 (Best Entry Level Thermal Scope for New Hunters)

The ATN ThOR 5 is the next step up from the ThOR 4, and it makes a compelling case for itself as the ideal entry level thermal scope for hunters who want something a little more capable without crossing into premium territory. ATN took everything they learned from the ThOR 4 and rebuilt the platform with a faster processor, a better sensor, and a smoother overall experience. The result is a scope that feels noticeably more polished to use, and that matters when you are trying to manage a rifle, track moving animals, and make quick decisions all at the same time.
The most significant upgrade in the ThOR 5 is the jump to a 640×480 thermal sensor. This is the same sensor resolution that you find in professional grade scopes, and it makes a real visual difference. Images are sharper, heat signatures are more defined, and you can pick out subtle details in the image that would be lost on a lower resolution display. Paired with the Obsidian 5 dual core processor, the scope operates with very little lag and handles smooth zoom transitions without the stuttering or smearing that you sometimes see on older or cheaper platforms.
Smooth zoom is one of the ThOR 5 features that tends to impress hunters who come from traditional optics backgrounds. Rather than jumping between fixed magnification steps, the ThOR 5 allows you to dial in zoom continuously, which feels more intuitive and natural in the field. The ultra low power mode extends battery life considerably, giving you more hours of operation when you are burning through a long night. This is particularly useful when you are hunting remote properties where charging options are limited.
The same smart features that made the ThOR 4 popular carry over here, including Recoil Activated Video, the ballistic calculator, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and the ATN app integration. The ThOR 5 also retains the one shot zero functionality, making it easy to get dialed in quickly. For a new hunter stepping into the thermal world for the first time, this scope offers a forgiving and intuitive learning curve without a punishing price. For an experienced hunter looking to upgrade from a lower resolution option, it checks all the important boxes.
Key Features
| Sensor Resolution | 640×480 |
| Processor | Obsidian 5 dual core |
| Zoom Type | Smooth continuous zoom |
| Video Recording | Recoil Activated Video (RAV) |
| Smart Features | Ballistic calculator, one shot zero |
| Power Mode | Ultra low power for extended battery life |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ATN app |
Pros
- 640×480 sensor delivers noticeably sharper and more detailed thermal images
- Obsidian 5 dual core processor provides smooth, fast performance with no lag
- Continuous smooth zoom feels natural and intuitive for optics veterans
- Ultra low power mode significantly extends battery life on long hunts
- Carries over all the smart features from the ThOR 4 platform
- Excellent entry point into 640 sensor thermal without a premium price
Cons
- The body is bulkier and heavier than some competing scopes in the same sensor class, which may be an issue on lightweight rifle builds
The ATN ThOR 5 hits a sweet spot that is hard to ignore. You get a true 640 sensor, a smart feature set, and a price that does not require a second mortgage. If you are ready to step up your night hunting game, go check out the ThOR 5 and see what it can do for you.
6) Armasight Sidekick 640 Thermal Monocular (Best Thermal Monocular for Hog Hunting)

The Armasight Sidekick 640 takes a different approach to thermal hunting altogether, and I think it deserves a lot more attention than it typically gets in conversations about hog hunting gear. Most hunters default to a dedicated thermal riflescope without considering what a high quality thermal monocular can bring to the table. The Sidekick 640 is one of the most versatile pieces of thermal gear you can own because it functions as a handheld monocular, a weapon mounted sight, and with the right accessories, a head mounted option as well. That level of flexibility is genuinely rare.
At the core of the Sidekick 640 is a 640×480 sensor paired with a compact 13mm lens. The resolution is excellent for a monocular in this class, producing a clean and detailed thermal image that gives you strong situational awareness. Hog hunters often scout before they shoot, and being able to pull out a handheld thermal unit to quickly assess a field before mounting a shot is a serious tactical advantage. With the Sidekick 640, you are not carrying two separate pieces of gear for scouting and shooting. One unit handles both jobs.
The weapon mount capability is what makes this more than just a scouting tool. When you are ready to shoot, the Sidekick 640 mounts to a standard Picatinny rail and functions as a thermal sight. The image is crisp enough to place accurate shots at practical hog hunting distances, and the compact size means it does not dramatically change the handling balance of your rifle. The multiple color palette options, including white hot, black hot, and red hot, let you adjust to your preference and the specific lighting or temperature conditions of your hunt.
The Sidekick 640 also features a video output, which means you can connect it to an external screen if needed. Armasight is a company with strong ties to the military and law enforcement community, and that shows in how they build their products. These are not consumer grade optics dressed up with a tactical look. The Sidekick 640 is built to genuinely withstand harsh conditions, repeated mounting and dismounting, and the day to day abuse that comes with serious field use. For the hog hunter who wants one thermal device that does it all, this is your answer.
Key Features
| Sensor Resolution | 640×480 |
| Lens | 13mm |
| Usage Modes | Handheld monocular, weapon mount, head mount compatible |
| Color Palettes | White hot, black hot, red hot |
| Video Output | External display connection available |
| Build Standard | Military and law enforcement grade construction |
Pros
- Three in one versatility: handheld monocular, weapon sight, and head mount capable
- 640×480 sensor delivers excellent resolution for a compact monocular form factor
- Military grade build quality from a brand trusted by law enforcement
- Compact and lightweight compared to full size thermal riflescopes
- Multiple color palettes adapt to varying field conditions
- External video output for flexible display options
Cons
- The 13mm lens limits detection range compared to 35mm and 50mm scopes, making it less ideal for wide open fields at distance
The Armasight Sidekick 640 is one of the most underrated pieces of thermal gear in the hunting space. If you want maximum versatility from a single investment, this monocular is worth a serious look. Go check it out and see how it could change the way you approach your next hog hunt.
7) Armasight Contractor 640 3-12x50mm (Best Mid Range Thermal Scope for Hog Hunting)

The Armasight Contractor 640 3-12x50mm is the scope for hunters who want serious performance without quite reaching the price ceiling of the top tier options on this list. Armasight built this scope with a clear purpose in mind: deliver professional quality thermal imaging in a rugged, field ready platform at a price that mid range buyers can justify. Having spent time with this scope, I can say they succeeded in a meaningful way. This is the kind of thermal scope that feels every bit as capable as it looks on paper.
The 640×480 sensor is the foundation of everything good about this scope. Combined with the large 50mm germanium objective lens, it produces an image quality that genuinely rivals much more expensive options in favorable conditions. The 3-12x optical magnification range is one of the more practical setups you will find in any thermal scope at any price. At 3x, you have a wide and manageable field of view for scanning and tracking. At 12x, you can stretch out to serious distances, with a rated detection range of up to 1800 meters. For hog hunters who work diverse terrain from dense south Texas brush to wide open Midwest grain fields, that flexibility matters.
Armasight includes multiple reticle options in the Contractor 640, which is a thoughtful touch that dedicated shooters will appreciate. Different reticle styles suit different shooting scenarios, and having options means you are not stuck with a generic crosshair that was designed for one specific application. The scope also handles recoil extremely well, which is important if you are running it on a hard kicking rifle. Armasight scopes are tested to military specifications for shock and vibration, and that testing shows in how the Contractor 640 holds its zero over time.
The battery life on this scope runs around four hours under typical operating conditions, which is on the shorter end compared to some competitors. That is worth noting if you plan extended all night hunts without access to charging. However, many hunters find that four hours covers the most productive parts of a night hunt easily, and carrying a spare battery pack solves the problem entirely. Overall, the Contractor 640 delivers a premium thermal experience at a price that sits well between the budget and flagship options on this list, making it one of the smartest value plays in the thermal scope market today.
Key Features
| Sensor Resolution | 640×480 |
| Lens | 50mm germanium |
| Magnification | 3-12x optical |
| Detection Range | Up to 1800 meters |
| Reticle Options | Multiple reticle choices included |
| Build Standard | Military spec shock and vibration tested |
| Battery Life | Approximately 4 hours |
Pros
- 640×480 sensor combined with a 50mm lens produces near flagship level image quality
- 3-12x optical magnification range covers short to long distance shooting scenarios
- 1800 meter detection range matches the top options on this list
- Military spec testing for recoil, shock, and vibration ensures long term reliability
- Multiple reticle options give experienced shooters real customization
- Strong mid range value between budget and premium scope pricing
Cons
- Battery life of approximately 4 hours is shorter than most competitors and may require a spare battery for extended hunts
The Armasight Contractor 640 is the scope for the hunter who refuses to compromise on image quality but is not ready to go full flagship pricing. It delivers where it counts and holds its own in the field against scopes that cost significantly more. Go take a closer look and see why it is one of the most compelling mid range options available right now.
8) Trijicon IR-HUNTER (Best High End Thermal Scope for Serious Hog Hunters)
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If money is not the primary constraint and you want the most uncompromising thermal scope that money can buy for hog hunting, the Trijicon IR-HUNTER is the answer. Trijicon built their reputation on the ACOG, one of the most respected combat optics ever produced, and the IR-HUNTER carries that same philosophy of absolute quality and zero tolerance for failure into the thermal space. This is not a scope for casual hunters. It is a tool for people who take nighttime hog hunting seriously and want equipment that operates at the highest possible level in every condition imaginable.
The defining technical specification of the IR-HUNTER is its 12 micron pixel pitch sensor. Most thermal scopes in the consumer market use sensors with a 17 micron pixel pitch, which is already impressive. The 12 micron pitch in the IR-HUNTER packs significantly more pixels into the same sensor area, which means finer image detail, crisper edges, and the ability to identify smaller targets at greater distances. Pair that with the 640×480 resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate, and you have a thermal imaging system that produces a genuinely stunning picture. At 60 frames per second, fast moving hogs remain sharp and trackable without any of the motion blur that can appear in lower frame rate scopes.
The IR-HUNTER is available with 35mm or 60mm objective lens options, giving you flexibility to choose the configuration that best fits your terrain. The 1x to 8x magnification range works beautifully for hog hunting, giving you a wide scanning view at the low end and serious reach when you need it. The scope is built to full MIL-SPEC standards, which is not just a marketing term in Trijicon’s case. These scopes are tested to the same exacting standards used for military procurement, meaning they will handle temperature extremes, water immersion, heavy recoil, and physical abuse without skipping a beat.
What makes the IR-HUNTER genuinely special beyond the specifications is the overall experience of using it. The image processing is refined in a way that feels different from most other thermal scopes. Colors are more natural, transitions between heat gradients are smoother, and the eye relief and ergonomics of the controls are clearly designed by people who actually spend time in the field. For hog hunters who run hard schedules, cover difficult terrain, and demand the best from their equipment, the Trijicon IR-HUNTER represents the top of the thermal scope world.
Key Features
| Sensor Resolution | 640×480 |
| Pixel Pitch | 12 micron (vs standard 17 micron) |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Magnification | 1-8x |
| Lens Options | 35mm or 60mm objective |
| Build Standard | Full MIL-SPEC |
| Image Processing | Advanced refined thermal image processing |
Pros
- 12 micron pixel pitch produces the finest detail and sharpest image on this list
- 60Hz refresh rate keeps fast moving hogs sharp and trackable without motion blur
- Full MIL-SPEC construction is tested to the most demanding durability standards available
- Choice of 35mm or 60mm objective lens for different terrain requirements
- Refined image processing and ergonomics that reflect genuine field development
- Trijicon brand reliability backed by decades of military and law enforcement service
Cons
- The premium price is the highest on this list and represents a significant investment that will not be right for every hunter
The Trijicon IR-HUNTER is not for everyone, but if you are ready to own the best thermal scope in the game, this is it. There is nothing else at this level of performance and build quality when it comes to hog hunting at night. Go check it out and experience the difference that uncompromising quality makes.
Conclusion
Hog hunting at night is one of the most effective ways to manage feral populations, protect crops, and enjoy a genuine challenge in the field, and thermal technology has made it more accessible and more effective than ever before.
The eight scopes I covered in this guide represent the strongest options available at every price point and use case, from nimble close range setups to long range flagship performers.
Whether you are just stepping into the thermal world for the first time or you are upgrading a setup that has served you well for years, there is a scope on this list that fits your hunting style and your budget.
The most important thing is getting out there with a thermal setup you trust, because when a sounder of hogs pushes into range at midnight, confidence in your gear makes all the difference. I hope this guide helps you make the right call.
See Also: 8 Best Thermal Binoculars {Complete Buying Guide}
I’m John V. Howard, a dedicated shooter and hunter who has spent years testing rifles, scopes, and gear in the field. I write from real experience, sharing what truly works, not what’s trendy. My goal is to give you honest, practical insights that help you make the right choices for your adventures and pursuits.