Night Vision Thermal First Time Buyer

[Mortalpawn]

Looking to get a thermal scope. Would like it mainly for animals at 50-150 yards (perhaps 200 at most) on a 223 or 308. Would prefer lower magnification as I like the wider field of view for scanning. I may use it as a scanner as well to augment a PVS-14 setup, which I'm already very familiar with. I've been reading about a lot of different options/reviews but still in the early stages of picking a model, and some reviews are dated.

My budget is ideally $2K or less, though I could go up to $2500 if there is a substantial gain in capability. Would prefer specific model recommendations.

 

[kirsch]

The thermal you have described is the Bering Optics Hogster-R 25. It has the widest FOV of the Hogster line up. In this price range, there is no other scope/scanner or brand with the image, features, and warranty of the Hogsters. All Hogster models comes with a 4 year warranty. Due to the compact size and QD mount, you can use it as a scope and/or scanner. It is a very versatile option. Don't let people talk you into some of the cheaper options because when the humidity gets high, you will not be able to use it. The Hogster 25 will work even in high humidity, and it will be a perfect fit for you. Here is a chart with the Hogster 25, 35 and Super Hogster comparisons including prices.