Clip-On Thermal Experience

Reddish

Lil-Rokslider
Joined
Apr 1, 2023
Messages
274
Anyone used a clip-on thermal vs a thermal scope? Just wondering how well it works for predators. I think it would be nice to be able to switch it to different scopes and rifles easily.
 

Tbone26

FNG
Joined
Oct 31, 2018
Messages
69
I would recommend a dedicated scope. With a good RTZ mount like ADM or Larue and multiple zero profiles (available in most thermals currently) you can still swap from gun to gun. I don’t have experience with any newer clip ons as of late but I know of people having poi shift problems in the past.
 
Joined
Feb 25, 2012
Messages
2,357
I've used one. Obviously there are positives and negatives.

It works fine for coyote hunting. A dedicated weapon sight is easier to use than a clip on though. Depending on what you are doing, the type of weapon, (AR/bolt in regular stock/bolt in chassis) scopes on each weapon, distance, one is a better option than another.
 

Krobe

FNG
Joined
Jun 7, 2024
Messages
19
I have used both. A dedicated thermal scope is better than a clip-on in 95% of situations.
 
Joined
Feb 20, 2024
Messages
409
Agree with above. I’ve used thermal clip ons and have a NV clip on. The supposed benefits never line up with the experience. I love my dedicated thermal scopes
 

croben

WKR
Joined
Aug 21, 2022
Messages
332
A really really good clip on is awesome. A decent or not so good clip on are not awesome. You would probably be better off having a dedicated scope and/or full setup just for hunting predators at night.
 
Joined
Jul 6, 2024
Messages
17
Location
Wilsonville OR
I run the Pard FT34 LRF clip-on thermal mounted to my Schmidt and Bender Meta - The universal mount left a lot to be desired. Lots of movement. Ended up going with the Rusan custom 50mm mount that I picked up from Robbie at Shooting Warehouse. It’s a brand from the Czech Republic that makes Isley high quality optic adapters. He’s the only stocking dealer in North America. It’s a game changer with the new mount - The PARD performs nicely all the way out to 800 meters and allows for quick target acquisition. I’ve included an image for reference.
 

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waspocrew

WKR
Joined
Apr 2, 2022
Messages
875
Location
MT
Dedicated makes it easy. Super simple to swap around as well. My iRay Rico is currently on my 6 ARC, but it’s also been on the 22 Creed and 6 Creed.
 

Barnell

FNG
Joined
Sep 7, 2024
Messages
3
Are there good 1k-$2500 thermals out there or is it more of a gamble than it’s worth? I’m ok with saving for a more expensive one just curious if there good options there.
 
Joined
Feb 20, 2024
Messages
409


 
Joined
Feb 20, 2024
Messages
409
If not going over 200 yards a 300 level sensor is fine. All of the above have that.

If you want to go out to 500 need 600 level sensor. That raises price to 3-5k.
 

Barnell

FNG
Joined
Sep 7, 2024
Messages
3
If not going over 200 yards a 300 level sensor is fine. All of the above have that.

If you want to go out to 500 need 600 level sensor. That raises price to 3-5k.
Good to know. I didn’t know about the sensor levels I appreciate the information!
 

Wrench

WKR
Joined
Aug 23, 2018
Messages
6,389
Location
WA
Are there good 1k-$2500 thermals out there or is it more of a gamble than it’s worth? I’m ok with saving for a more expensive one just curious if there good options there.
I'm running an ATN THOR 4 640 which can be had used in your budget and can spot cows over a mile away on a cool night.
 
Joined
Sep 14, 2024
Messages
24
I’d go the route of a dedicated thermal optic. From thermals I’ve personally handled to get the same quality of thermal or technology in a clip on vs a dedicated thermal usually cost a bit more and clip ons can be a pain sometimes to get fully centered on the scope you’re mounting them to
 
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