There’s nothing quite like hog hunting at night—and if you want to stack pork, nothing beats the advantage of a true thermal scope. While old-school night vision works, thermal technology lets you spot hogs in pitch black, through brush, fog, and even in tall grass. Until recently, thermal scopes were only for guides and ranchers with deep pockets. But today, you can get serious, hunt-ready thermal performance for much less. This guide shows you the best budget thermal scopes for hog hunting in 2025—each one proven by real hunters, each one ready to turn your next night into a meat run.
Quick Picks: Best Value Thermal Scopes for Hogs
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Best Overall:
AGM Rattler TS25-384
– Field-proven, tough, and surprisingly clear for the price. -
Best for Image Clarity:
Bering Optics Hogster Stimulus 2.0 2-8x
– Crisp imaging and reliable at night, even on big-bore rifles. -
Best Entry-Level:
AGM Rattler TS19-256
– Lowest price for real thermal, perfect for feeders or close setups. -
Best Premium Budget:
Pulsar Talion XQ38
– Upgraded controls, battery life, and field-of-view for tough hunts.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Budget Thermal Scope for Hogs
Not every “thermal” scope is up for real hog hunting. Here’s what separates a hunt-ready scope from a disappointment:
- Sensor Resolution: Most true budget models offer 256×192 or 384×288 resolution. For best clarity at 100–250 yards (where most hogs are shot), 384×288 is the sweet spot.
- Refresh Rate: 50Hz is standard—no lag or skipping as you pan or track moving hogs.
- Detection & ID Range: All listed scopes can detect heat out past 500 yards, but identification (positively ID as a hog) is typically best at 100–250 yards.
- Base Magnification: 1.5x to 3x is ideal for close to mid-range, with digital zoom up to 8x+ for longer shots. Too much base mag narrows your field of view, which can make fast follow-ups harder.
- Battery Life: Most budget thermals run 4–8 hours per hunt. Choose scopes with swappable batteries or USB power bank support for all-night sits.
- Ruggedness & Recoil: All picks here are rated for .308, .30-06, 6.5 Creedmoor, .300 Blackout, and even magnums—no toys or rimfire-only models.
- Recording & Features: Video recording, photo, and different color palettes are handy for reviewing hunts, scouting, and sharing with friends.
Full Reviews: Best Budget Thermal Scopes for Hog Hunters
AGM Rattler TS25-384
Who it’s for: The hunter who wants maximum value and proven performance—year after year, field after field.
- Key Benefits:
- 384×288 sensor—good for clear, crisp imaging out to 200+ yards
- Base 2.5x mag (up to 8x digital)—perfect for walking fields, feeders, or senderos
- Built-in video/photo, multiple color palettes, hot spot tracking
- Rated for .308 and all common hog calibers
- Swappable CR123 batteries or run a USB power bank for all-night hunts
- Pros:
- Lightweight and compact—easy to carry and fast to mount
- Simple controls—great for quick target acquisition and follow-up shots
- Excellent reviews from Texas to Florida—real hunters, real results
- Cons:
- Digital zoom, like all, loses some detail—best shots are at base mag or 2x
- Screen is good for price, but not “luxury thermal” crispness
Final Verdict: The best-selling budget thermal scope for American hog hunters—tough, clear, and affordable. Check today’s price
Bering Optics Hogster Stimulus 2.0 2-8x
Who it’s for: Hunters who want the best mix of clarity, durability, and field-proven results—perfect for both hogs and coyotes.
- Key Benefits:
- 384×288 thermal core—great contrast and easy target ID
- Base 2x optical (up to 8x digital)—flexible for close or mid-range shots
- Runs on CR123 or 18650 batteries (4–8 hr runtime)
- Multiple reticle options, photo/video, several color palettes
- Holds zero on .308, .300 BLK, and even shotguns
- Pros:
- Praised for sharpness and reliability by predator and hog guides
- Lightweight and mounts with standard rings
- Proven to work in hot Southern and humid coastal conditions
- Cons:
- No WiFi streaming (records to SD card only)
- Like all digitals, zoom loses detail at highest levels
Final Verdict: For sheer clarity per dollar, this is a top contender. Check latest deal
AGM Rattler TS19-256
Who it’s for: The new thermal hunter, or the backup rifle, or feeder setups where shots are under 100–150 yards.
- Key Benefits:
- 256×192 sensor—affordable, basic, but gets the job done at bait or close fields
- Base 2.5x mag (up to 20x digital)
- Records video, hot spot tracking, multiple palettes
- Lightest scope on the list, easy to carry all night
- Pros:
- Lowest price for real thermal (not a clip-on or toy)
- Simple controls—easy for first-timers or “loaner” setups
- Works on .308 and magnums, no problem
- Cons:
- Lower resolution limits clarity at longer ranges—best kept under 120–150 yards for positive ID
- Does not have WiFi or fancy streaming features
Final Verdict: The entry ticket to real thermal hog hunting—best value for close-in shots. See today’s deal
Pulsar Talion XQ38
Who it’s for: The hog hunter who wants next-level comfort and features, but isn’t spending $4,000+ for top-end glass.
- Key Benefits:
- 384×288 core—sharp images, great contrast, and long range ID
- Customizable reticles, onboard video, WiFi streaming, remote control via app
- Up to 9 hours on a charge, external power bank support
- IPX7 waterproof—use it anywhere, any season
- Pros:
- Brighter, clearer image than most “budget” models
- Easy to swap between rifles, lots of menu and palette options
- Backed by Pulsar’s warranty and service
- Cons:
- At the top end of “budget” price, but delivers more for the money
- Slightly heavier than entry scopes
Final Verdict: If you want near-premium performance, comfort, and flexibility, this is the upgrade to buy. Check price
Comparison Table: Budget Thermal Scopes for Hogs
| Name | Sensor | Base Mag | ID Range | Recording | Battery | Recoil | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGM Rattler TS25-384 | 384×288 | 2.5x | 200+ yd | Yes | 4.5+ hrs / swap | .308 magnum | View |
| Bering Optics Hogster Stimulus 2.0 | 384×288 | 2x | 200+ yd | Yes | 4–8 hrs | .308 magnum | View |
| AGM Rattler TS19-256 | 256×192 | 2.5x | 100–120 yd | Yes | 4+ hrs | .308 magnum | View |
| Pulsar Talion XQ38 | 384×288 | 2.5x | 250+ yd | Yes / WiFi | 9 hrs / ext. power | .308 magnum | View |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a budget thermal scope on my .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor?
Absolutely—all scopes listed are recoil rated for common hog calibers and heavier.
How far can I reliably identify a hog with these scopes?
Detection ranges go out to 500+ yards, but clear identification (so you know it’s a hog, not a calf) is best at 100–250 yards depending on the scope and conditions.
Are these scopes good for walking-and-stalking or just feeders?
All are light enough for walk-and-stalk, but really excel on fields, senderos, and feeder setups. Higher base mag is better for fields, lower base mag for close woods or running hogs.
Is recording video worth it?
Yes! It’s great for reviewing shot placement, sharing with friends, or just reliving epic hunts. All picks (except NightShot, not listed here) record video and most take photos too.
Can I use a thermal scope in daylight?
Yes, thermal works day or night—perfect for finding bedding hogs, tracking wounded animals, or scouting in any light.
Conclusion & Call to Action
The best budget thermal scope turns any hog hunt into a high-success adventure. Whether you want entry-level clarity or near-premium performance, every pick above is proven in the field, holds up to real recoil, and lets you hunt longer, farther, and with total confidence.
Ready to upgrade your hog setup? Check today’s deals and pick a thermal scope that fits your rifle, your hunt, and your budget. See you at the skinning rack!