There are some new thermal scopes out right now that represent improvements over previous generations, especially from RIX, InfiRay and Nocpix. This post will take a closer look at some of these best thermal scopes, along with their features and use cases.
The InfiRay HCH50R
The InfiRay Thermal Hybrid Compact HCH50R is the next iteration in InfiRay’s HYBRID series and boasts the industry’s first 10μm thermal sensor, which delivers exceptional thermal sensitivity and clarity.
This thermal sensor represents a huge leap forward in thermal optics technology, as the higher pixel density enables more thermal data to be captured by a smaller lens, which yields a two fold effect of a more compact optic that can capture a more detailed image.
Another massive advantage of this 10μm sensor is that it retains image clarity through the zoom, and that it is quite literally 10x faster than competing optics (even those with 12μm sensors) because of lower latency. A 12μm scope would have a latency (delay) of approximately 150ms whereas this InfiRay thermal scope would experience a latency of around 15ms.
This is a huge deal for hunters that pursue active species like predators, such as coyotes, as you will not need to lead your target as dramatically to connect. It will also cut through high humidity like no other scope.
On top of that, this InfiRay thermal scope can also function as a handheld thermal monocular and a clip-on in addition to a scope. It also boasts an integrated laser rangefinder as well as a ballistic calculator.
RIX Thermal Scopes
If you’re in the market for a new thermal monocular or scope, there are some solid choices from RIX right now. Here are some of the best new RIX thermal scopes on the market.
RIX Leap L3R
The RIX Leap L3R redefines precision, with a .35 MOA precision, less than half an inch at 100 yards. It also has a thermal sensor with a NETD rating of 20mK or better, along with an eye box that’s 30% wider for more viewing comfort.
Thanks to its advanced sensor and AI-enhanced imaging, this thermal scope significantly fights back against blur and pixelation, even when using its continuous optical zoom, which doubles and simulates pixels, resulting in a much clearer sight picture.
Like the InfiRay HCH50R, it also has an integrated laser rangefinder and a ballistic calculator, but this RIX thermal scope costs less than $3000, making it one of the best thermal scopes for hunters on a budget.
Leap L6R
The RIX Leap L6R is the L3R’s upgraded cousin, with a 50mm lens and a better thermal sensor, though all of the other features, including an integrated laser rangefinder, AI image enhancement and stabilization and reduced pixelation even when zooming in, remain in place.
The main difference between the L3R and L6R is that the L6R has a greater detection range,, at 2843 yards, and a better sensor. If you love the features you just read about the L3R, but you want something a little more powerful, the Leap L6R is a good bet.
TITAN T6 Thermal Monocular
If what you’re looking for doesn’t necessarily need to fill the role of a thermal scope proper, then a thermal monocular like the TITAN T6 might be in order. It also comes with a more attractive price tag than many other thermal imaging optics.
The RIX TITAN T6 still offers a lot of solid features, though, including a 640x480 sensor with 20mK or better, a larger F.09 lens that takes in more light, and easy one-handed operation with intuitive controls.
It also sports a built-in laser rangefinder, a ballistic calculator, and RIX’s image processing technology that preserves image quality and lets you zoom in without losing details.
Nocpix Thermal Scopes
Nocpix also has a few noteworthy new thermal scopes out right now, of which two are the RICO 2 H75R and S75R.
Nocpix RICO 2 S75R
The RICO (Rugged Infrared Compact Optic) 2 S75R, new from Nocpix, is built around a 1280x1024, 12μm, 15mK (or better) thermal sensor with a 60Hz frame rate for smooth viewing. It produces clear images and is built for long range, with a detection range of nearly 3900 yards, along with 3-30x stepless zoom, making it ideal for detecting thermal signatures for long-range nighttime shooting.
It also boasts an integrated laser rangefinder, ballistic calculator, WiFi connectivity, an IP67 waterproof rating and an operating temperature as low as -20℃, making it ideal for truly freezing nighttime hunts.
Nocpix RICO 2 H75R
The Nocpix RICO 2 H75R is another great new thermal scope. Like the S75R, it is also built around a powerful sensor, in this case, a 640x512, 12μm, 15mK, 60Hz refresh rate sensor.
The RICO 2 H75R has also been updated with numerous new features, including but not limited to a laser rangefinder, an improved display, a quick-release mount, and magnetic charging capabilities.
It’s also a bit more affordable than the S75R, so if you don’t need the extra features, this is a solid pick for nocturnal hunts as well.
Questions About These New Thermal Scopes?
Regardless of which of these thermal scopes you might think is for you, if you have any questions about any of them, get in touch with us directly at 309-781-8421 and let us know what you’re looking for. We’ll answer your questions and make personalized recommendations based-off your specific hunting situation.
