Thermal binoculars and monoculars are used for similar purposes which are fundamentally different from thermal scopes. While a thermal scope can be used for glassing, generally they are used for executing a shot. Besides, you don’t want to wantonly muzzle anything, anyway, which is why dedicated thermal optics for scanning and scouting are often used by night hunters in addition to their dedicated thermal scopes.
That being the case, there are many situations in which a pair of thermal binoculars may offer the highest degree of utility and versatility. So, we rounded up some of the best arguments in favor of getting a pair, and compiled them here.
They’re a Good Supplement to a Dedicated Thermal Scope
You can use your thermal scope for glassing, but there are a few notes to keep in mind here.
One, even if your scope has a long battery life, you might understandably want to reserve that for when you need the scope most; that is, when you’re going to be executing a shot.
Two, having a second thermal optic on hand will help you better adhere to the maxim that one is none and two is one. If you have only one thermal optic with you, such as your scope, and it dies or malfunctions when you’re in the field at night, you’ll be up a proverbial creek.
Third, the second thermal optic, in this case a pair of binoculars, is safer and more practical for glassing, whether you’re scouting, scanning, or actually tracking an intended target. Using your rifle’s scope for that is cumbersome and will require you to muzzle everything along the way. A pair of binoculars is liberating in that respect.
They’re Generally More Ergonomic Than Thermal Monoculars
Thermal monoculars are generally more lightweight and affordable than binoculars, but the form factor and ergonomics of binoculars are tough to beat.
For one thing, most hunters are used to the ergonomics and operation of conventional glass binoculars. For another, the controls are generally (if not mostly) the same between thermal binoculars and conventional glass models.
Better Suited for Scanning and Sustained Glassing
If you’re just taking a quick look at a landscape to ascertain the presence of any thermal targets, a thermal monocular will get the job done.
But if you need a thermal optic to glass wide open areas and routinely do so on your night hunts, a pair of thermal binoculars will be more comfortable and will suit you better than a supplementary thermal monocular.
This is especially true at night when viewing through thermal optics, like binoculars or monoculars. On top of that, viewing with both eyes helps some hunters avoid the eye strain that arises from using only one eye through a monocular, along with the headaches that accompany it.
There’s a Shorter Learning Curve
Since most hunters are familiar with conventional glass binoculars, there’s little transition needed to switch over those skills to a thermal pair. You already know how to use them. This saves time, is convenient, and will free you from most of the burden of learning how to use new gear in the field, at night, in darkness.
Less Eye Strain
Studies have also shown that using both eyes when viewing through a pair of binoculars is beneficial and reduces eye strain. It can also potentially improve focus; which you will need for the hunt.
While scanning and scouting at night, hunters need to maintain their focus; every single visual aberration that occurs can cause strain, distract the focus, and fatigue the hunter. This is one of the reasons a clear sight picture is important; if the image flickers, wavers, or the resolution is inconsistent, it ultimately takes a toll on the hunter.
Moreover, using a pair of thermal binoculars allows the hunter to synchronize visual data from both eyes, reducing strain. Comfort is critical, and binoculars, that enable the hunter to balance visual cues through both eyes, can ensure hunters stay as comfortable as possible, reduce eye strain and boost visual processing.
Shop Thermal Binoculars Here
Ultimately, whether a pair of thermal binoculars is better for you than a monocular is a personal decision. This post only goes over some of the reasons that binoculars can benefit you, but it remains true that, holding all else equal, thermal monoculars are lighter, more compact, and easier to pack, carry and handle than binoculars. On top of that, monoculars are usually more affordable and, since they only let you view through one eye at a time, will preserve your night vision in the other eye.
If you’re still tossed up and not sure what you should go with, give us a call at 309-781-8421 and we will be happy to help or even make personalized recommendations.
