If I'm not night hunting over fields I'm in the woods calling. Deer trails work well for me, but it can be tough with the wind. Shotgun with BB or buckshot.
With the stock light I can shoot to atleast 200 yards, I have upgraded lights a few times, my current light I can spot eye shine out to 500+ yards or more
Do you have your light properly sighted in with the scope? The light has an adjustable mount that has to be aligned with the scope for it to work properly
Mount your ir light out on the front as far as you can and underneath the barrel. You will still get a little splash but only a second or two. I have made multiple double and triple kills after relocating the light to the front.