Thermal Scope vs. Night Vision

Aaron Spuler is a firearms enthusiast and recreational shooter. Follow more or his work at The Weapon Blog

Want to know the difference between thermal scopes and night vision scopes? You’ll know soon enough. But which ones stand out among the rest in certain applications? Is one better than the other when used at night? These are some of the questions that we’ll answer later on. While you’re looking for a scope of your own, it’s important to find one that will work to your advantage. The thing is, having to choose between one or the other will depend on your own personal preferences and needs. This article will give you a good idea of which scope type will work best in whatever application you’re intended on using the scope for. Now, let’s take a look at how both scope types are similar to each other and what is distinctly different.

Thermal Scope vs. Night Vision–The Similarities

To begin, we’re going to cover the ways how both thermal and night vision scopes compare in terms of similarities. While they are two different types of scopes, you’d be surprised to see how much they have in common. Here’s a quick list of similarities:

They are both effective in low-light or no-light settings

Yes, we begin this list by addressing the elephant in the room. Both of these scopes are able to get the job done if the light conditions are either low or complete darkness. Either way, the scopes will allow you to see and navigate through obstacles. Both are able to pick up different types of infrared lights. Night vision scopes will often pick up both near and mid-range IR wavelengths (depending on the brand or type of night vision scopes or optics used). Thermal IR waves are exclusively picked up by thermal scopes.

Both great for hunting and self-defense purposes

Whether you’re night hunting or if you’re in a self-defense or tactical situation, these types of scopes have proven themselves to be useful. Most of your intended targets will appear in low-light or no-light settings. Especially if you’re hunting or trying to ward off any invaders or prowlers in a self-defense situation. If you’re out of the sight of the attackers due to hiding in the shadows, that places you at a great tactical advantage.

Thermal Scope vs Night Vision–The Differences

With similarities come with its share of differences. There are quite a few of them between the two. Let’s get right to it:

Thermal Scopes Can Pick Up Targets From A Distance, Some Night Vision Scopes May Not

There are some thermal scope that will have the ability to pick up the heat signature of targets from a distance. How far? Possibly hundreds of yards away. Some night vision scopes might be able to do so as well. But not every single one will have the ability to pick up targets from farther distances like 100 to 200 yards. Others will be able to pick up and make targets that are situated just south of 100 yards (i.e.–75 yards).

Thermal Scopes Do Great In Other Environmental Elements, Night Vision May Not

Thermal scopes will have a focus on your target of choice and provide a clear image picture. Especially when there are environmental factors like smoke, fog, or even precipitation to name a few. It can even be able to pick up some targets hiding behind light vegetation. Night vision scopes may not be able to give you a good quality image when there are environmental elements hindering it.

Thermal Scopes Are Useable In The Daytime, Night Vision Cannot

Did you know that thermal scopes can be used during the day? They don’t depend on any kind of light in order to work properly. However, night vision would be difficult to see through in a broad daylight setting. The reason is that bright light can damage the light intensifier that helps your scope gain that night vision.

You Can Easily ID Your Target With Night Vision, Not Thermal Scopes

If you’re in a self-defense situation, you’re better off making out the target much better. You’re able to determine whether or not if it’s a home invader or a member of your family just coming home from a late-night out. With thermal scopes, it’s hard to distinguish since the outline of a human will be more of the same. In a self-defense situation, it might be dangerous to engage the target without having any knowledge of what is in your line of fire.

Night Vision Scopes Are More Affordable Than Thermal Scopes

If you’re looking for a scope that will be effective in a low-light or no-light setting, you may want to consider how much you’re looking to spend. If you’re on a budget, there’s a good chance that a night vision scope might fit you best. While you might be able to find a thermal scope on a budget, the likelihood of finding one that can behave like higher-end scopes might not be good. If you must find a thermal scope that can be effective, you should be willing to spend a little bit extra.

So Which One Stands Out The Best?

The answer is that it depends. If you’re in a hunting situation, you’re better off using a thermal scope. Especially if you’re in a hunting situation where varmint and predators are a problem. While thermal scopes give you an advantage in home defense situations, the risk of accidentally shooting someone who is unarmed rather than a home invader or prowler is increased considerably. Accordingly, a home defense application will be more appropriate for night vision scopes and optics.

Conclusion

Thermal scopes and night vision are different from each other. But they do have some similarities that stand out. If you’re looking for a scope for whatever purpose during the low-light or nighttime hours, it’s important to weigh the similarities and differences between both types of scopes. If you know which application you intend to use your rifle for, then the choice might be a no brainer.

Author Bio:
I am Bobby and I love all things outdoors. I created scopesman.com as a repository for information dedicated to expanding the enjoyment of our wild heritage and preserving it for future generations. As a part of this mission, I want to help you find the gear that suits you best and that will stand the test of time.