Thermal/NV predator kills

[Split toe]

Another hog down

 

[Split toe]

22 creed strikes again

 

[Split toe]

snuck up to 42 yards on this hog

 

[tx_shooter]

Grabbed the wrong magazine of 6.5 Grendel ammo on this hunt. I had the 120gr Nosler Ballistic Tips instead of my preferred Hornady 123gr SSTs for feral pigs. My buddy shot one with his 308Win and I shot two with the 6.5 Grendel. The first one I shot died a bit on the other side of the fence and the second died right there.

Shooting starts at 1:00 into the video. Using an AGM Rattler TS35-384 but will be adding a night vision scope at some point.

 

[Mssony352]

Don’t know how to post Videos.

 

[Split toe]

 

[Split toe]

 

[weekender7]

 

[yotehunt]

I have popped 8 or more since this video. I just do not record much.

 

[yotehunt]

Don’t know how to post Videos.

Just copy and paste the link in your text box.

 

[308_WIN]

Here is a double I recently killed

Nice shot on the 2nd one. How far of a shot was that?

 

[Split toe]

Nice shot on the 2nd one. How far of a shot was that?

If I recall correctly, 240-250 yards

 

[Bighunt531]

I've been a dealer for both Night Vision and Thermals for many years. I've also used both for hunting. In my opinion ... Thermal Optics will get you much better clarity and distance.
Here is a break down of Pro's and Con's:
Pro's to Thermal:

• Prices continue to go down while quality and sensitivity of sensors is going up (handheld models starting at $500)
• The clear images allow you to see exactly what you are looking at
• The distance at which you can identify and determine a target is fantastic
• You will see animals in areas that you never could before (dense brush, wooded areas, high grass, etc.)
• Weapon Mounted Thermal Scopes have very good reticles allowing you to engage accurately
• Size and weight of Thermals are getting smaller and lighter
• You can use in day or night environment
• User interface and zeroing is very easy and user friendly
• Most have wi-fi capability and recording capabilities as well
• Thermals see differences in temperature (hot and cold) it doesn't matter what kind of light there is (zero moon light to bright areas)

Con's to Thermal:

• Prices are still higher then most night vision scopes (weapon mounted thermal sight average $2500-$3500 starting)
• If you have a weapon mounted system you will have to scan the area with your weapon up (can get tiring unless you are using a tri-pod or aiming sticks)
• Cheaper thermals do not see as far or as clear
• Many average consumers don't understand the specifications to look for in thermals and therefore choose the wrong optic for their application or spend more then necessary.
• They can not be integrated in with an IR aiming laser (used with night vision devices)
• Helmet or head mounted thermals are still very expensive (there are some available...but prices can be $6K-$10K

Pro's to Night Vision:

• Technology keeps getting better and cheaper for night vision (quality NV weapon sight - starting $1500ish)
• Digital night vision can see longer distances and has more clarity
• user interface and zeroing of weapon mounted sights is easier and more user friendly
• Helmet mounted capability as well as weapon mounted with a single tube Night Vision Device (PVS-14)
• IR Aiming lasers visible only through night vision device can be weapon mounted and zeroed making target acquisition and hunting predators on the run much easier.
• Helmet mounted Night Vision Device allows user to scan the area without needing to raise ...and hold weapon up

Con's to Night Vision:

• distance and clarity are still lacking vs. thermals
• Night Vision is reliant on ambient light ....or an IR Illuminator (IR Flashlight to light up the area you want to see (which is an additional expense)
• Night vision typically you are seeing a target based on color, contrast, and movement (Which means you can easily miss seeing an animal until it is moving)
• If you are using a helmet mount night vision you will want to get some type of IR aiming laser (possibly one integrated with an IR Illuminator) which is an additional expense.
• If you are using a night vision weapon mounted scope you will need to scan the area with your weapon up (gets tiring unless you are using a tri-pod or aiming sticks)
• There are so many different models out now that some average consumers have a hard time knowing what to get and sometimes will choose the wrong optic for the application or spend more money then necessary

Hope all this helps....Feel free to reach out if you have additional questions or need recommendations. I have a passion for this type of stuff and for helping others getting what is the right set up for them and not breaking the bank.
-Will

I prefer my NV scope. And my thermal scanner. I love seeing them eyes and more of the animal coming in. My friends I hunt with who do have thermal like them but I don't think I'll ever make the switch if anything I'll upgrade my scanner

 

[yotehunt]

Got me one of them albinos

 

[Split toe]

Bobcat down!

 

[weekender7]

 

[Mssony352]

View attachment 501926
Got me one of them albinos

That’s cool!

 

[weekender7]

 

[weekender7]

 

[Mssony352]

Big hog down. Thermal does the trick