There are many solid options out there in thermal scopes for night hunters to mount to their rifles for the purpose of pursuing their target species. But which is the best thermal scope for you? 

Well, if your rifle already has a glass optic over the receiver, and you like it, and it’s already zeroed, the best thermal scope might not actually be a dedicated scope at all, but an optic called a clip-on. Here’s what that is, and what a clip-on thermal optic can offer you. 

What Is a Clip-On Thermal Scope and Why Is It an Excellent Option?

A clip-on thermal scope is actually not necessarily really a thermal scope at all, but more of a tiny thermal monocular with a small form factor. In some cases it won’t have a reticle or other features like that typically associated with a thermal scope, but as you are about to see that will hardly limit its utility or performance at all. 

Instead of serving as the dedicated scope, the clip-on mounts to the receiver in front of your existing scope (or clips on, hence the name), thereby converting your standard glass scope into a thermal scope.

In other words, when you view the target picture through your glass optic, what you’ll really be looking at is the display screen of the clip on thermal optic. It shows everything in front of it as a heat signature. 

There are a few really good reasons why this might constitute a superior configuration to a dedicated thermal scope. 

One is the price. Many clip-on thermal optics are smaller, lighter, and simpler in terms of features and functions than other thermal optics, which makes them more affordable. 

Another is convenience, and this is multifaceted. If you already have a glass optic on your rifle and it’s zeroed, if you get a new thermal scope and replace your existing scope, you then need to calibrate and zero the new scope. With a clip-on thermal scope, you don’t need to do any of that. It basically takes your existing scope and just converts it so that it can be used as if it were already a thermal scope. 

Then there is the versatility of the setup. A clip-on thermal scope can be detached from the rifle and run as a standalone thermal optic, akin to a thermal monocular. In some cases you can even helmet-mount a clip-on thermal optic or run it in other ways as the design and form factor allow.

So, at the end of the day, if you already have a scope on your rifle and don’t feel like removing it and replacing it with a dedicated thermal optic, or if you want an option that will offer you expanded versatility, then the best thermal scope for you might not be a dedicated scope at all, but a clip-on optic. 

Where to Shop the Best Brands in Thermal Scopes

Whether you determine that a clip-on thermal optic is actually the best thermal scope for your rifle or you want a conventional option like a Nocpix ACE S60R that offers all of the features of a thermal rifle scope, you can get what you’re looking for at Dark Night Outdoors. 

They represent the best brands in thermal optics including DNT Optics, Nocpix, PULSAR, iRay, and others. Check out their website and if you have any questions about the optics they sell or which might be best for you, get in touch with them directly at 309-781-8421 and they’ll be more than happy to help you out.

For more information about Iray USA and Thermal Binoculars Please visit: Dark Night Outdoors LLC.