5 Best Thermal Scopes For Coyote Hunting (Includes Clip On)

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links.

While thermal is often associated with the military, SHTF prepping, and law enforcement, it's also used in predator hunting.

I looked for the best thermal scopes for coyote hunting that includes budget options to clip-ons and standalone riflescopes.

Coyote hunting with thermal
Image Credit: Oneillops

I also compare their specs, size, battery runtimes, and warranties to give you just a little more information before you buy!

Best Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting In 2024

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
tt-table__imageAGM Rattler TS25-384
  • Thermal Resolution: 384x288
  • Refresh Rate: 50 Hz
  • Color Modes: White/Black/Red/Fusion
CHECK PRICE
tt-table__imageATN Thor 4 640 1-10x
  • Thermal Resolution: 640x480
  • Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
  • Color Modes: White/Black/Color
CHECK PRICE
tt-table__imageAGM Varmint LRF TM35-384
  • Thermal Resolution: 384x288
  • Refresh Rate: 50 Hz
  • Color Modes: White/Black/Red/Fusion
CHECK PRICE
tt-table__imageBurris BTC 35
  • Thermal Resolution: 400x300
  • Refresh Rate: 50 Hz
  • Color Modes: White/Black/Red/Green
CHECK PRICE
tt-table__imageATN Thor LT 160 3-6x
  • Thermal Resolution: 160x120
  • Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
  • Color Modes: White Hot/Black Hot
CHECK PRICE

Why Trust Us?

After hundreds of hours of hand-testing scopes in the field and at the range, and thousands more hours researching and writing about them, we feel we earn the title of experts when it comes to optics!

We purchase as many of the optics for our tests as possible, and run them through their paces to make sure they will perform at the range and in the field.

Our combined decades of experience from coyote hunting, to big game hunting and competitions has been integral in putting together this round-up of the best thermal scopes for coyote hunting.

Get the inside scoop on how we test optics here.

With the late hours that comes with the hyper-activity of the generally nocturnal creatures, you’ll need the best night vision scope or thermal on your side.

Between standalone scopes, clip-ons, and 640 resolution sensors in this lineup, a productive hunt is guaranteed.

Oneillops coyote hunting with thermal
640 resolution thermal - Image Credit: Oneillops

However, 640 thermal scopes are around the same cost as Gen 3 night vision, but unlike night vision, you don't need to depend on ambient light to see.

Thermal VS Night Vision
Thermal (left) - Image Credit: Oneillops VS Digital Night Vision (right) - Image Credit: ATN

Since many can justify the middle ground between cost and performance, 384 resolution is a worthwhile buy and provides great performance for the hunt.

But there's no debating the affordability of 160 thermal resolution. Here's how they stack up against each other.

Best Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting Reviews

1. AGM Rattler TS25-384 – Best Under $2000

AGM Rattler TS25 384
Image Credit: AGM

The AGM Rattler TS25-384 represents the best of the mid-range market. The TS25 and TS35 models are identical in features but the TS35 has a 35mm lens for longer detection and greater optical magnification but at the cost of a narrow FOV and higher price. For under $2000, the TS25 fits the budget.

Pros:

  • 384x288 resolution
  • 1.5x optical magnification
  • Large display
  • Multiple features
  • Compact/lightweight

Cons:

  • Made in China

The Rattler series is made in China. I think it's important to know that though it’s covered with a limited 3-year warranty, AGM does not service the scope but will replace it under the warranty (requires registration).

Though the Rattler looks like a monocular due to its compact 7.37” and 0.91 lb size, it’s a riflescope complete with a QD Weaver/Picatinny single-lever cam mount and five reticles with interchangeable colors of black, white, green, or red. It also allows for 5 zero profiles and is recoil-rated for up to .308 calibers. I love that for being a standalone scope, it's super lightweight.

AGM Rattler fusion and black hot mode
Fusion mode (left) Black hot mode (right) - Image Credit: AGM

It has an uncooled, 17-micron, 50Hz core with a 0.4” 1024x768 OLED display. Eye relief is decent (for a thermal) at 45mm, it has a wide 14.9x11.2° FOV, and 1.5x optical magnification with digital 1x, 2x, 4x, and 8x zoom. Large targets can be detected to 965 yards, but its identification range is between 150-200 yards.

Powered by 2x CR123A or RCR123A (rechargeable) batteries, it runs for 4.5 hours, but I like that it's compatible with an external 5V battery pack. Standard palette modes include, Black Hot, White Hot, Red Hot, and Fusion. It has two Scene Modes: Recognition and Jungle. Recognition mode enhances the outer edges of the target while Jungle mode highlights heat signatures on the smallest of targets.

AGM Rattler thermal vision riflescope
Image Credit: AGM

I really like PIP mode. The crosshairs are visible on the main screen as well as the PIP screen. Additional features include more user-adjustable settings, built-in storage for video and image capture, and WiFi compatibility.

For the money, the AGM Rattler TS25 has value as an affordable, high-performing, mid-range scope.

2. ATN Thor 4 640 1-10x - Best 640 Thermal Scope

ATN Thor 4 640 thermal scope
Image Credit - ATNCorp

When ATN calls an optic “smart,” it means that it’s feature-packed with probably more than you would realistically use in the field. If this is exactly what you want out of a thermal, the Thor 4 should be at the top of your shortlist.

Pros:

  • Price
  • Gen 4 640 sensor
  • White/Black/Color palettes
  • Smart Mil Dot Reticle
  • Smart Rangefinder

Cons:

  • Learning curve required

When you have something that offers so much in one product, there is undoubtedly going to be user error and a learning curve required to overcome issues. This is true of the Thor 4, but I also think that everything has been thought-out well with multiple user adjustments that cater to vision, focus, and thermal image quality.

Hog hunting with ATN Thor 4 640
Image Credit: Nite Reign & ATN

It has the Obsidian IV Dual Core T thermal core and a 640x480 60 Hz sensor – one of the best thermal imaging sensors you can get for the money. What is especially nice is the fact that it has not only Black Hot and White Hot polarity modes, but it also offers a Color mode that some may require as a staple palette in their thermal optics.

I know that the best thing about the Thor thermal scope is its ultra-low consumption battery that provides 16+ hours of operation! It’s an industry-leading battery and is important since it needs to support the FFP reticles, Smart Mil Dot Reticle, Smart Rangefinder, dual video recording and streaming, and more.

Compatible with ATN’s other smart products, the Thor 4 is the no-brainer buy if you’re an ATN fan.

3. AGM Varmint LRF TS35-384 – Best with Rangefinder

AGM Varmint LRF
Image Credit: AGM

In general, night-stalking hunters find themselves limited to stadiametric or bracketing rangefinder alternatives or simply without distance measurement. The AGM Varmint LRF solves this issue and integrates a laser rangefinder into the thermal scope itself.

Pros:

  • Mid-range
  • 656-yard LRF range
  • 3-24x magnification
  • Live video streaming
  • Compact

Cons:

  • Battery life

The Varmint LRF takes a rechargeable 18650 battery for a runtime of 4.5 hours with the WiFi off. With all the features that you can take advantage of, you will need to use an external battery pack to maximize its use while out in the field.

I think that for a thermal scope that includes a lasing engine, 4.5 hours is acceptable given that many scopes only provide this runtime without having the ranging feature.

AGM Varmint LRF in action
Image Credit: AGM

Specs conform with mid-range quality with a 384x288, uncooled VOx, 12-micron core with a 50Hz refresh rate and a 0.4”, 50Hz, 1024x768 OLED display. The TS35-384 is the cheapest of the Varmint LRF series and has a max detection range of 1913 yards. It has magnification of 3-24x, eye relief of 45mm, and FOV of 7.53x5.65°.

The built-in laser rangefinder has a max range of 656 yards with -/+2-yard accuracy. Thanks to the thermal, you can see what you need to range and get an immediate distance on your target – night or day. The Varmint also has Trajectory Correction mode to set multiple distances for expected drop. I have a high opinion of the picture-in-picture mode complete with 5 on-board reticles seen on both the main screen and PIP screen - it's a feature that once you get used to it, you don't go without it again.

AGM Varmint LRF features
Plugging into battery pack (top left) Quick detach mount (top right) Hog hunting (bottom right) - Image Credit: AGM

The AGM thermal riflescope has 4 color palettes, Jungle and Recognition scene modes, and Hot Tracking. Not only does it have 16gb of internal storage for video and image capture, but you can now live stream through the app on your phone.

For a fully featured thermal, it’s compact at 7.8” in length. It has an IP67 water-resistant rating and is drop-resistant from 4.9 ft. For combined LRF technology in a mid-range thermal sensor scope, I think the Varmint LRF will quickly be a varmint hunting must-have for nighttime excursions.

4. Burris BTC 35 – Best Clip-On

Burris BTC thermal clip on
Image Credit: Burris

Thermal clip-on scopes are usually more expensive than thermal riflescopes. The Burris BTC 35 is a viable option in what is a very slim market. It has mid-range performance due to its 400x300, 17-micron, 50 Hz sensor. Specs include a 35mm lens, 1x magnification (2x/4x digital), and 10.6x8° FOV.

Pros:

  • Clip-on
  • Mid-range
  • Hot Track
  • Basic functions
  • Compact/lightweight

Cons:

  • Adapters sold separately

The primary complaint about the BTC was the late release of the clip-on adapters needed to turn it from a monocular to a weapon-mounted clip-on with daytime scopes. Furthermore, it’s incredibly disappointing that it costs significantly more than the handheld and yet the adapters are sold separately. I'd recommend remembering this tip when browsing thermal because it's one of the few clip-ons available in the market.

Burris BTC 50 mounted to day scope
Burris BTC 50 mounted to objective bell of day scope - Image Credit: Burris

It can be mounted to a Picatinny rail suitable for use with red dots or attached to the objective bell of a daytime riflescope. I think the pic rail for it should have been included but it's not, so the rail and Bluetooth remote are sold separately. It takes 2x CR123 or ICR16340 rechargeable batteries for 3+ hours of operation. Burris includes a battery charger in the box. At least that's a plus because 3 hours is definitely on the stink end for thermal battery runtime.

I don't relish the fact that it lacks internal video, but it does have video output for an external recorder.

It has White, Black, Red, and Green Hot palettes, Hot Tracking, and three scene modes: Enhance, Highlight, and Nature. Other features include adjustable brightness/contrast, shutter/scene/automatic calibrations, auto standby/power-off, and manual focus.

Coyote hunting with Burris BTC thermal
Image Credit: TXGameHunters TV

Though it’s a Burris optic, it’s not covered under the Forever Warranty but instead a Thermal 3-Year Warranty that requires registration and proof of purchase. It starts from the day of purchase. This can be another criticism, but it’s competitive with all thermal warranties from other manufacturers.

The BTC is an expensive clip-on considering adapters and accessories are an additional cost. In and of itself, besides video recording, the BTC offers nothing less than alternative clip-ons.

5. ATN Thor LT 160 3-6x – Best Budget Option

ATN Thor LT thermal riflescope
Image Credit: ATN Corp

Overall, the ATN Thor LT is the cheapest thermal riflescope available. The LT 160 is the economical line with low resolution of 160x120 and a 17-micron 60 Hz sensor. In any case, it’s thermal imaging for under $1000, and it deserves recognition for its affordability for cost-conscious spenders.

Pros:

  • Price
  • Short-range
  • Long eye relief
  • Ultra-long battery life
  • Ring mounting

Cons:

  • Screen freezing

Budget ATN scopes have been known to have issues where the screen freezes and requires a hard reset. For many, it solves the issue, but it will screw you over if you need a follow-up shot. These types of complaints were rampant in the early years of the Thor LT release, and recently this type of specific issue is less frequent.

ATN Thor LT 160 battery charging and button interface
Setting the zero (top right) and battery charging port (bottom right) - Image Credit: ATN (left) & Sportsmans Guide

The first thing you should know is that the Thor LT 160 is a low-resolution thermal. Even so, I deem it as an affordable thermal scope that's suitable for beginners and short-range use. The Thor LT has a 465-yard human detection range with an ID range at 160 yards. These distances depend on multiple factors but optimal performance is likely around 70-200 yards.

Though the LT has an operating temp. from -20 to 120° F, it does not like cold weather. Due to thermal technology, it does not like high humidity. You will lose resolution in high humidity climates forcing a closer ID range and is a good example of how you will learn its capabilities and limitations.

Many will like that ATN stripped away all the gadgetry features such as video, WiFi, etc. Its simplicity remains in its White and Black Hot palettes, reticle options, and incredible 10+ hour battery life from its internal, rechargeable battery. Its form factor mimics that of a daytime scope that takes 30mm ring mounts to mount it.

ATN THOR LT 160 Black Hot and White Hot
Black Hot mode (left) & White Hot mode (right) - Image Credit: ATN

Though the Thor LT 160 is as entry-level as it gets, it meets the budget requirements that beginners may have for a first-time thermal - and it's under $1000!

What to Look for in a Thermal Scope for Coyote Hunting

What should you know about buying a thermal scope for hunting coyotes?

Coyotes and thermal
Image Credit: Oneillops

On average, cost, thermal resolution, battery runtime, and other specs are major factors in considering the right thermal scope for the task. For coyote hunting, magnification may be important, an integrated laser rangefinder may be considered, and device type may be essential.

I compared this vital information so that you can know more before you buy!

Budget/Cost

Trijicon Reap thermal
Image Credit: Trijicon

Overall, thermal technology is not affordable for most budgets, but it doesn’t mean it’s not out of reach. There are quality thermal scopes that are offered at multiple price points even under $2000 these days.

Sensors with 640x480 resolution, 12-micron, and 60 Hz refresh rates will be the most expensive and they may start at $3000-$4000 on the low end, but don't be surprised to see that they can reach prices close to $10,000.

White Hot Dog
Dog as seen using White Hot mode (160 resolution) - Image by Tina Fa'apoi (Own Work) for Target Tamers

Halve the resolution and you have a thermal that’s more affordable, but then you only get half the resolution. Halve it again to say, 160 resolution, and the trend with thermal quality and cost remains true.  

ProductPrice RangeFeatures
AGM Rattler TS25Under $2000384 thermal resolution, Standalone scope, Integrated QD mount, Selectable reticles, Rated to .308 calibers
ATN Thor 4 640Under $3000Smart technology, Bluetooth/WiFi, Video recording, Ballistic Calculator, Smart Mil Dot reticle
AGM Varmint LRFUnder $3000Integrated laser rangefinder, Wide variable magnification, Live video streaming, Compact, PIP mode, Tracjectory Compensation mode
Burris BTC 35Under $3000Clip-on thermal scope, Hot tracking, Manual & Auto NUC, No re-zeroing required, Adapters & rail mount sold separately
ATN Thor LT 160Under $1000Low price, Ultra-long battery life, Lightweight, Simple & easy to use, No 'smart' features
Coyote Thermal Scope Price Range & Features Comparisons

Scope VS Clip-on

YouTube video

A standalone thermal is used alone on a firearm. A clip-on may or may not support standalone use as it’s designed to be used in front of your daytime scope to provide thermal imaging.

The downside with buying a standalone thermal rifle scope is that it needs its own rifle, or the daytime scope must be removed.

A clip-on is perfect for moving between rifles with different day scopes. But the image quality may suffer as it must travel through several glass lenses before it reaches your eye. However, the latest offerings prove to be worthwhile without image degradation.

Trijicon VS Puslar Standalone VS Clip on
Standalone scope (left) - Image Credit: Trijicon VS Clip-on scope (right) - Image Credit: Pulsar

If you’re only occasionally hunting coyotes, a clip-on should be considered to reduce dismount and remounting of day scopes. If Winter has come and you plan to be out and about quite often, a dedicated thermal scope may be the better option.

ProductDevice Type
AGM Rattler TS25Standalone thermal rifle scope
ATN Thor 4 640Standalone thermal rifle scope
AGM Varmint LRFStandalone thermal rifle scope
Burris BTC 35Clip-on thermal scope
ATN Thor LT 160Standalone thermal rifle scope
Coyote Thermal Rifle Scope Device Type Comparison

Coyote Hunting Environments (Specs Comparisons)

YouTube video

You’re either in the open plains, hill country, or more recently in wooded habitats. It goes without saying that you need the right thermal for the job.

While coyote hunting typically means you’ll be on the move regardless of where you are, you must keep the wind in your face, stay away from skylines, and have the right gear so as not to be seen.

This equates to buying a thermal scope that is lightweight, has a recognition range at least to that of your shooting distances, and imaging features that can be adjusted for the conditions you’re in.

ATN Thor 4 384 res coyote at 165 yards
Coyote at 165 yards with 384 thermal - Image Credit: ATN

The flat field and open country coyote hunters will want a long-range thermal scope. Those in thick timbers where coyotes have been moving into over the last years will need a thermal system that’s lightweight as covering ground is the best strategy for this environment.

With hard scouting and calls not going as far, thermal goggles may be a good idea too. If you’re using a shotgun, make sure the thermal is recoil-rated for it.

The factors to look for in determining which thermal scope is best for you and the terrain can be decided by the specs.

ProductMagnificationRefresh RateResolutionPixel Pitch
AGM Rattler TS251.5x – 8x50 Hz384x28817-micron
ATN Thor 4 6401 – 10x60 Hz640x48017-micron
AGM Varmint LRF3 – 24x50 Hz384x28812-micron
Burris BTC 351 – 4x50 Hz400x30017-micron
ATN Thor LT 1603 – 6x60 Hz160x12017-micron
Coyote Thermal Scope Magnification, Refresh Rate, Resolution & Pixel Pitch Comparisons

Lightweight & Strong

YouTube video

Keep your setup lightweight and easy to move with. Most varmint and scout guns are popular choices for coyote hunting and the same should go with your choice of thermal. You should be on foot, on the move often, and your gear needs to be effective and appropriate for the hunt - not weighing you down.

Until recently, thermal scopes have weighed in like a tank. The electrical components combined with glass and lenses makes for a bulky device, and it didn’t mean that it was any more durable or recoil-proof than what is now being made today with lightweight and strong aluminum alloy materials.

Trijicon thermal reap ir
Image Credit: Trijicon

Manufacturers are streamlining a thermal scope’s aesthetic appearance with that of a daytime scope and they’re also weighing in less than 2 lbs. Thermal clip-ons can weigh as light as 18 oz with dedicated scopes weighing in at around 24 oz.

ProductDimensionsWeight
AGM Rattler TS257.37 inches (L)14.56 oz
ATN Thor 4 64013.1 x 3 x 3 inches30.88 oz
AGM Varmint LRF7.8 x 2.6 x 4.3 inches23.04 oz
Burris BTC 355.9 x 2 x 2.2 inches14 oz
ATN Thor LT 16011.5 x 2.2 x 2.2 inches22.4 oz
Coyote Thermal Scope Dimensions & Weight Comparisons

Battery

Burris BTC battery options
Burris BTC battery options - Image Credit: Burris

Battery type and battery runtime will vary between thermal scopes. Some last longer than others but none last as long as passive night vision. In general, most thermal scopes wll provide between 3-10 hours of battery runtime.

Most are compatible with external power banks (battery packs) for longer runtime but they are always come at a separate, optional cost.

ProductBattery TypeBattery LifeBattery Pack Compatible
AGM Rattler TS252x CR123A4.5 hoursYes
ATN Thor 4 640Internal Li-Ion16+ hoursYes
AGM Varmint LRF1x 186504.5 hoursYes
Burris BTC 352x CR1233 hoursYes
ATN Thor LT 160Internal Li-Ion10+ hoursYes
Coyote Thermal Scope Battery Type, Battery Life & Battery Pack Compatibility Comparisons

Warranty

Waterproof thermal scope
Waterproof thermal scope - Image Credit: Pulsar

Warranties vary by manufacturer when it comes to the conditions such as transferability and how long it's under warranty. However, three years seems to be a common coverage period. Typically, proof of purchase and product registration is required.

ProductWarranty
AGM Rattler TS255-year warranty
ATN Thor 4 6403-year warranty
AGM Varmint LRF5-year warranty
Burris BTC 353-year warranty
ATN Thor LT 1603-year warranty
Coyote Thermal Scope Warranty Comparison

FAQs

Can you use a Thermal Scope in Daylight?

Yes! Thermal scopes are active devices and can be used 24/7 in both day and night conditions unlike night vision scopes (comparison here). Thermal scopes read temperatures and converts that data into an image for the user to interpret. As such, it can be used in daylight.

The only thing to be aware of is how heat and daylight affects the temperature signatures of targets, animals, and the surrounding environment. When a combination of these types of targets reach similar heat signatures, the image can “wash out.” You must be conscious about time of day you’re using thermal, recognizing and identifying your target before you shoot, and use thermal scope features to better enhance the image and identify the target. 

Can you Hunt with Thermal?

Yes and no. Within the USA, each state has their own laws regarding the use of thermal imaging and night vision devices for hunting. The onus is on you to follow up and remain compliant with the hunting laws in the state you are hunting in.

Is it Legal to Hunt Coyote with a Thermal Scope?

This is directly tied to the current regulations and laws of the state. Some states allow thermal and night vision devices for hunting coyotes, hogs, and other predators while other states do not.

Furthermore, thermal monoculars and goggles may be allowed to observe for visibility, but thermal scopes may be prohibited from use. Educate yourself with state laws to be compliant as wildlife and game officials certainly use thermal to identify poachers and illegal hunting practices.

How Far can you Shoot with a Thermal Scope?

The detection range of a thermal scope is far different to what you can actually shoot with a thermal scope. Pay close attention to the identification range that allows you to positively identify what that target is. The ID range is significantly shorter than the detection range.

For most hunters, the ID and shooting range is usually within 250 yards and is what most feel comfortable with. Some thermal scopes offer better ID detection at 400 yards plus some. So, the shooting range is then dependent on the conditions, what’s downrange, what the target is doing, if the thermal can keep up with moving targets without lag, if your weapon system is equipped to make that shot, and if you’re any good of a shot.

Conclusion

Hunting with Trijicon REAP
Image Credit: Trijicon

Even though there is a plethora of practical and effective benefits that thermal brings to a hunt, we must admit that it’s just straight-up fun. 

To have visibility in pitch darkness to take down the unaware predator is a primal experience.

However, it’s also an expensive experience.

Justify it by getting into hog hunting, tracking downed game, and surveilling the ranch at night. There may be more than just chickens looking to stow away into the coop once the cover of darkness rolls in.

You won’t know if you don’t have thermal.

Further Reading

Photo of author

Simon Cuthbert - Founder

Simon is an avid outdoor enthusiast and the founder of Target Tamers. He is passionate about bringing you the most up to date, accurate & understandable information on sports optics of all kinds and for all applications. Simon has contributed to notable publications online and teaches beginners the technical side of optics through his extensive library of optics guides.

Never Miss a Thing!

Get Our Latest Guides & Field Tests Straight to Your Inbox

As Featured Footer Image