Five of the best: Thermal-imaging devices

Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL60

Achieving game-changing thermal performance through a highly sensitive 1024×768, 12µm, <35mK NETD thermal sensor, the Thermion features a new 60mm germanium objective lens that provides outstanding thermal detection, capable of spotting the smallest heat source at distances reaching 2,800m. With its premium HD thermal sensor, 2.5x base magnification and 11.7-degree field of view, large and small targets at long and short ranges appear crystal clear, making it a truly versatile scope.

A built-in precision LRF can provide valuable distance data at up to 800m with an accuracy of ±1m. Additional features include Bluetooth remote control, built-in video recording and compatibility with Pulsar’s Stream Vision 2 and Stream Vision ballistics apps.

A removable, rechargeable APS3 battery pack offers up to seven hours of battery life and a spare battery is included, which means you can keep hunting through the day and night.

Hikmicro Stellar 3.0 SX60L LRF

This optic incorporates HikMicro’s most advanced thermal-imaging sensor to date, delivering a resolution of 1280×1024 pixels with sub-18mK NETD sensitivity, combined with a 60mm f1.0 lens and an integrated ballistic LRF. The result is an exceptionally detailed, high-resolution thermal image.

With a detection range of up to 3,100m and a magnification of 2.5-28.5x, the SX60L LRF provides outstanding long-range capability, higher magnification and minimal image pixelation.

Built around HikMicro’s premium high-resolution sensor, the Image Pro 2.0 technology uses advanced algorithms to enhance detail and clarity. This not only enables clear identification of animals but also provides the shooter with excellent visibility of the wider surroundings and background.

The discreetly integrated 1,000m LRF is housed within the scope’s front objective lens, enabling accurate distance measurement without compromising the traditional profile of your rifle. The built-in ballistics calculator then projects the correct holdover point on to the reticle, enabling you to make a precise adjustment for distance.

DNT Zulus ZT4K

The DNT Zulus ZT4K blends day and night capability into a single, highly versatile riflescope platform. Built around a Sony STARVIS 2 4K CMOS sensor, which delivers 3840×2160 resolution, it produces a remarkably crisp, high-contrast image with excellent colour fidelity in daylight and impressive clarity in low-light conditions.

Paired with a fast 50mm f/1.8 objective lens incorporating ED glass, the ZT4K maximises light transmission while minimising distortion, ensuring a sharp, detailed sight picture across a wide range of field conditions.

Offering a versatile 3-24x magnification range with up to 6x lossless digital zoom, the ZT4K maintains usable clarity at higher magnifications, enabling confident target identification at extended distances. The integrated LRF provides accurate readings out to around 1,200m, while the onboard ballistics engine calculates and displays precise holdover corrections, streamlining shot placement in real-world hunting scenarios.

Features including one-shot zeroing, multiple reticle options, onboard 64GB recording and Wi-Fi connectivity further enhance appeal. Robustly constructed, IP67-rated and recoil-tested up to .50 BMG, it is built for demanding field use.

ThermTec Oryx-L 635

At the core of the Oryx-L 635 sits a 640×512, 12µm sensor with ≤15mK NETD sensitivity, enabling the scope to detect the smallest temperature differences and deliver a crisp, high-contrast image even in poor weather or complete darkness.

Paired with a 35mm f0.8 objective lens and a wide 12.5-degree field of view, the Oryx-L 635 excels at rapid scanning and target acquisition, particularly at short to mid-range distances – ideal for woodland work or open-field vermin control.

The 2560×2560 OLED display provides exceptional clarity and greatly reduces eye strain during prolonged sessions. Meanwhile, the integrated LRF works seamlessly with the onboard ballistics calculator, giving precise distance readings and accurate holdover guidance in the field. The ThermTec AutoSight System (TASS) further enhances usability by managing zoom and returning to base magnification after recoil, ensuring the shooter maintains awareness.

Features such as recoil-activated video recording, 64GB storage and Wi-Fi connectivity add appeal, while the IP67 rating and 21700 battery with up to eight hours of runtime ensure reliability in challenging conditions.

NocPix Ace H50R

The Nocpix Ace H50R is equipped with a next-generation sensor that delivers outstanding image quality and detail, particularly at long ranges, with a smooth, natural-looking 60Hz frame rate. Featuring an integrated 1,200m ballistic LRF and the advanced Reality+ and Vision+ systems, it is fitted with a 50mm f0.9 lens that provides 3-24x magnification and a detection range of up to 2,600m, making it an excellent choice for foxing and vermin control.

The Ace offers a wide selection of reticles and colour palettes, with white hot, black hot and green proving especially effective in the field. Zeroing is straightforward thanks to the freeze mode, which allows the shooter to make simple adjustments and save the new setting. Multiple profiles can also be stored, enabling the unit to be reliably transferred between rifles without any loss of zero.

Practical design features further enhance usability. Small fins on the objective lens make focus adjustments quick and effortless from a shooting position, while power is provided by an internal rechargeable battery, supported by a single 18650 cell as a reliable backup.