Blackops, would highly recommend you buy thermal over nv. I've been removing feral hogs and other pests from crops for several years.
I invested a small fortune in nv. NV has its place, but thermal absolutely kicks nv's ass. The military reason for going thermal over nv has been discussed many times here. Smoke, fog, and extreme low light conditions defeat nv but do not affect thermal.
I have extensively tested both nv and thermal working with dod contractors and a manufacturer. I spent a career using both.
I will recommend first up, the Insight L3 LWTS over any other unit on the market. Buy once cry once. I have several farmers here who finally saw the light and purchased thermal. None regret the purchases. All who bought thermal have already seen enough reduction in crop damage that justify the price.
I further recommend the LWTS because Insight products have held military contracts longer than any other companies out there. Their service record is unparalleled by any other company. There are L3 vendors on this site who are flawless to work with and some who are not.
I have several people who work with me removing crop damage pests. All have used nv and now own some form of thermal. The kill ratios tripled with thermal. The cheapest atn thor we have used has killed more pests than any three nv units. The high end 640x 480 thor is worth every dime you would spend, except it's not meant to work as a day scope. There are pros and cons about dedicated units versus clip ons. We have both. We use both extensively. The 40 year experience I have doing some kind of night operating has led me to the above recommend item.
My farm began its life as a family land grant before statehood and has operated in one form or another since it entered the family. We have farmed it, leased it, and done multiple use income operations, currently timber, hay, and hunting. We have extensive hog damage in certain areas. Trapping hogs is the proven most effective method of removing hogs, followed by thermal sights and shooting them nightly.
Since this is a topic on the "soon to be released WASP" and several posts not related to the Wasp have been removed from the topic, I will mention this unit. We can't test or use a unit that doesn't exist as a production unit. Maybe one day the wasp will pass manufacturer requirements and get on line. It's been mentioned here numerous times by tnvc that tnvc will not release the unit until it is ready.
Chip Lasky of tnvc is top of the line, experienced, reputable, and a man you can deal with with absolute confidence. I wish there were more Chip Laskys out there.
Tnvc sells thermals. They are one option you have for thermal. Shop wisely, buy thermal, and don't look back.
