Ask any serious coyote hunter, and they’ll tell you: success after dark starts with your optic. Coyotes are smart, quick, and nocturnal — which makes spotting them in open fields or thick brush a tough task. The right night vision or thermal scope doesn’t just help, it can make all the difference between a lucky sighting and a confident shot. If you’re hunting coyotes after sundown and want the advantage, this guide breaks down today’s best high-end night vision and thermal scopes — so you can choose with confidence and get more out of every hunt.
Quick Picks: Best Night Vision / Thermal Scopes for Coyotes
-
Best Overall:
Trijicon REAP-IR 35mm Thermal Rifle Scope
– Unmatched image clarity and rugged reliability. -
Best Budget (Value):
ATN Thor 4 384 2-8x Thermal Rifle Scope
– Powerful thermal performance without the premium price tag. -
Best Premium:
Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro
– Ultimate range, smart features, and a premium hunting experience.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Pick the Best Night Vision Scope for Coyotes
Choosing a night vision or thermal scope is a big investment. Here are the most important things to keep in mind before you buy:
- Detection & Identification Range: How far can you spot and identify a coyote? Look for scopes with at least a 300+ yard clear ID range. Top thermals go past 1,000 yards for detection.
- Sensor Resolution: Higher resolution means sharper detail. Thermal scopes should offer at least 384×288, but 640×480 is best. For digital night vision, go for full HD sensors or higher.
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz is ideal for tracking moving targets. A slower refresh may blur fast movement, which matters for night predators.
- Battery Life: The best scopes last 8 hours or more per charge, and allow external battery packs for longer hunts.
- Durability: Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction keeps your investment protected in tough outdoor conditions.
- Mounting & Zeroing: A solid mount, easy zeroing, and flexible reticle choices make all the difference on the hunt.
Also consider weight (especially if you hike), and whether you want extra features like video recording, WiFi streaming, or built-in rangefinding.
In-Depth Reviews: Top Night Vision & Thermal Scopes for Coyotes
Trijicon REAP-IR 35mm Thermal Rifle Scope
Who it’s for: The serious hunter who demands top-tier clarity, reliability, and can handle premium pricing.
Key Benefits:
- 640×480 high-resolution thermal sensor
- 60 Hz refresh for real-time target tracking
- Up to 1,200 yards detection range
- Rugged, military-grade build
- Compact and lightweight (under 2 lbs.)
- Multiple reticles, polarity modes, digital zoom
Pros:
- Industry-leading image quality and sensitivity
- Easy to operate, even with gloves
- Excellent for spotting through brush or fog
- Extremely durable and reliable
Cons:
- Very expensive (over $7,000+)
- Battery life could be better (use external packs for long hunts)
- Menu system has a learning curve for new users
Final Verdict: If you want the best and are willing to invest, the REAP-IR is the top performer. It gives you every advantage, even on the darkest nights. Check availability on Amazon.
ATN Thor 4 384 2-8x Thermal Rifle Scope
Who it’s for: Hunters who want a reliable thermal scope that won’t break the bank but still delivers great performance.
Key Benefits:
- 384×288 thermal sensor, great for most coyote ranges
- Smart features: ballistics calculator, WiFi, recoil-activated video
- Up to 10 hours battery life per charge
- Lightweight, easy to mount
- Multiple color palettes and reticles
Pros:
- Excellent value for the features
- Clear thermal images for spotting and identifying coyotes
- Modern user interface with mobile app integration
Cons:
- Not as crisp as premium 640x scopes
- Menu can feel complex at first
- Some users report app quirks
Final Verdict: For a real thermal scope at a price more hunters can reach, the ATN Thor 4 is hard to beat. Perfect for most night hunters and landowners. See details and price on Amazon.
Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro
Who it’s for: Dedicated night hunters and professionals who want premium features and serious range.
Key Benefits:
- 640×480 sensor with advanced image processing
- Integrated laser rangefinder (out to 800 yards)
- 16+ hour battery life with quick-swap batteries
- Photo/video recording, WiFi streaming, and custom reticles
- High-contrast AMOLED display
Pros:
- Industry-best detection range and image sharpness
- Ultra-reliable in all weather
- Smart connectivity features for sharing hunts
Cons:
- Premium pricing (over $6,000)
- Can be a little heavy for some rifles
Final Verdict: For the ultimate in performance, range, and modern hunting features, the Thermion 2 XP50 Pro is in a class of its own. See on Amazon.
AGM Rattler TS50-640 Thermal Rifle Scope
Who it’s for: Hunters wanting top-tier 640x resolution in a compact, affordable package.
Key Benefits:
- High-sensitivity 640×480 sensor
- Quick-detach mount, light (1.2 lbs)
- 7-hour battery (2x CR123A)
- Multiple reticles and color palettes
- Built-in video/photo recording
Pros:
- Fantastic image for spotting and ID
- Very portable and easy to swap between rifles
- Great customer support
Cons:
- Battery life is less than some competitors (bring spares)
- No integrated rangefinder
Final Verdict: The AGM Rattler is a top performer for the price and perfect for hunters who switch between different rifles. View latest price on Amazon.
ATN Mars 4 640 4-40x Thermal Rifle Scope
Who it’s for: Long-range coyote hunters wanting maximum magnification and top-end resolution.
Key Benefits:
- Massive 4-40x digital zoom
- High-end 640×480 sensor
- Smart rangefinder and ballistics
- Recoil-activated video, Bluetooth and WiFi
- Ultra-low power consumption (18+ hours battery life)
Pros:
- Unmatched zoom for wide open country
- Lots of tech for precision hunters
- Excellent for recording and reviewing shots
Cons:
- Very large and heavy (over 2 lbs)
- High price point
Final Verdict: If you hunt at long distances or want every tech feature, Mars 4 is your scope. See on Amazon.
Pulsar Trail 2 LRF XP50 Thermal Riflescope
Who it’s for: Hunters needing maximum range and a rugged, field-proven build.
Key Benefits:
- Laser rangefinder with 1,100 yard range
- 640×480 thermal sensor, 50 Hz refresh
- Rugged magnesium alloy housing
- Easy zeroing with one-shot freeze function
- Video recording, WiFi, IPX7 waterproof
Pros:
- Excellent at long-range identification
- Built to handle tough conditions
- Accurate rangefinding for ethical shots
Cons:
- Premium price and weight
- Limited availability (often sells out)
Final Verdict: A favorite of professionals and land managers, the Pulsar Trail 2 LRF XP50 is built for results. See current price on Amazon.
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Sensor/Range | Price & Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trijicon REAP-IR 35mm | Military-grade, 60 Hz, multiple reticles | 640×480, 1,200 yds | Check Price |
| ATN Thor 4 384 2-8x | Smart features, 10hr battery, WiFi | 384×288, 800 yds | See on Amazon |
| Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 Pro | Laser rangefinder, WiFi, AMOLED | 640×480, 2,000 yds | See on Amazon |
| AGM Rattler TS50-640 | Compact, high-res, QD mount | 640×480, 1,000 yds | Check Price |
| ATN Mars 4 640 4-40x | Long range, smart ballistics, WiFi | 640×480, 2,000 yds | See on Amazon |
| Pulsar Trail 2 LRF XP50 | Laser rangefinder, rugged, video | 640×480, 1,100 yds | Check Price |
FAQ: Night Vision Scopes for Coyote Hunting
What’s the difference between thermal and digital night vision?
Thermal scopes detect heat and work in total darkness, seeing through fog, smoke, and brush. Digital night vision amplifies ambient light (or IR), but often can’t match thermal for detection and identification. For coyotes, thermal usually wins — but digital can be useful for close range or budget-conscious hunters.
Is it legal to hunt coyotes at night with thermal scopes?
Regulations vary by state and even county. Always check local game laws for night hunting and the use of night vision or thermal optics. Some areas may restrict use or require permits.
How far can these scopes see coyotes?
Top thermal scopes can detect heat signatures past 1,000 yards. Identification (clear enough for a confident shot) is usually best under 500 yards, depending on sensor quality, magnification, and weather conditions.
Can these scopes be used during the day?
Thermal scopes work both day and night. Digital night vision models can also operate in daylight, but traditional tube night vision should never be exposed to bright sunlight, as it can be damaged.
How important is battery life?
Very important! Night hunts can last hours. Look for scopes with at least 6+ hours battery life, and always carry spares or a backup power source.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Don’t let another coyote slip away in the shadows. Investing in a high-quality night vision or thermal scope gives you a real edge — more sightings, more ethical shots, and a more rewarding hunt. Every model above is trusted by real hunters and built to last. Review your needs, check your local laws, and pick the one that matches your style and terrain. With the right scope, you’ll wonder how you ever hunted at night without one!
Ready to upgrade your night hunting game? Click any model above to check today’s best prices and secure your next advantage in the field.