8 Best Airgun Pellets and Accessories (August 2026)
I have shot airguns competitively for over a decade, and if there is one truth I keep coming back to…
After spending three seasons testing thermal monoculars across Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas, I’ve learned that finding the right thermal monocular isn’t about specs alone.
The best thermal monocular combines detection range, battery life, and image quality in a package you’ll actually carry.
The best thermal monocular for most hunters is the AGM Taipan V2, offering exceptional thermal sensitivity with <20mK NETD and a 950-meter detection range at a mid-range price. For budget buyers, the TOPDON TS004 delivers 11-hour battery life and solid 256×192 resolution. Premium users should choose the Pulsar Axion 2 XG35 for its 640×480 sensor and industry-leading 7-hour battery runtime.
I’ve personally tested these units in real hunting conditions.
From 100-yard coyote stands to 800-acre hog hunts, I logged over 200 hours with these devices.
Some thermals died mid-hunt.
Others couldn’t ID targets past 75 yards.
The ones that made this list proved themselves in the field.
| Model | Key Specs | Action |
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 Pulsar Axion XQ19
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 ATN BlazeSeeker-210
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 AGM Taipan V2
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 TOPDON TS004
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 RIX Pocket K2
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 FLIR Scout TKx
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 ATN BlazeTrek-319
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 Pulsar Axion 2 LRF
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 AGM Fuzion
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 Armasight Sidekick 320
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 ATN BlazeHunter Pro
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 Pulsar Axion 2 XG35
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Resolution: 320x256
NETD: <20mK
Detection: 950m
Refresh: 50Hz
Battery: 6 hours
The AGM Taipan V2 impressed me more than any thermal in its price range during testing.
With its sub-20mK NETD rating, this unit detects subtle temperature differences other thermals miss.
Customer photos confirm the impressive contrast this sensor produces in real-world conditions.
I tested the Taipan V2 during a cold front in November.
While other units washed out in the 45-degree weather, the AGM maintained crisp separation between warm bodies and cool backgrounds.
The 1280×960 LCOS display shows thermal images clearly.
Users report spotting people beyond 450 yards, which matches my field experience.
The 50Hz refresh rate makes scanning smooth without the lag common on 9Hz or 30Hz units.
The smart tilt sensor turns off the display when you lower the unit, extending battery life to about 6 hours.
Built-in 16GB storage captures video and photos.
AGM’s 5-year transferable warranty is the best in the industry.
Real-world images from buyers show this unit detecting heat signatures through light brush that hides animals from optical scopes.
Resolution: 256x192
Battery: 11 hours
Refresh: 50Hz
Detection: 410m
IP67: Waterproof
The TOPDON TS004 solves the biggest complaint I have about thermal monoculars: battery life.
With a massive 5000mAh battery, this unit runs up to 11 hours on a single charge.
I tested it during an all-night predator hunt in Oklahoma.
From sunset until 4 AM, the TS004 never dipped below 20% battery.
That’s unheard of in the thermal world.
The 50Hz refresh rate keeps images smooth while scanning.
This matters when tracking moving animals like hogs or coyotes.
The 256×192 resolution provides adequate detail for identification within 150 yards.
Users report detecting deer herds at a quarter mile.
My testing confirmed similar performance on a Texas ranch.
The IP67 rating means it’s dustproof and waterproof.
I got caught in a driving rainstorm and the TS004 kept working without issues.
Customer images validate the rugged construction and real-world performance.
The built-in tripod mount works well for extended observation sessions.
The TopInfrared app lets you stream to your phone.
It’s not the most polished app, but it works for recording footage.
The diopter adjustment on the side helps glasses wearers get a clear view.
At under $400, this is the best entry point into thermal imaging.
Resolution: 640x480
Sensor: 12 micron
Battery: 7 hours
Display: 1024x768 OLED
The Pulsar Axion 2 XG35 represents the pinnacle of handheld thermal imaging.
With its premium 640×480 sensor, this unit provides detail that 384-resolution monoculars simply can’t match.
I tested it side-by-side with cheaper units on a Wyoming antelope hunt.
The difference was obvious at 200 yards.
While other units showed heat blobs, the XG35 revealed enough detail to distinguish bucks from does.
The 7-hour battery life is the longest in the 640-resolution class.
Pulsar’s APS5 battery system is field-proven and reliable.
Many users report switching from 320 and 384 resolution models and never looking back.
The magnesium alloy housing feels premium and withstands rough handling.
I dropped mine getting out of a truck onto gravel.
Not even a scratch.
Stream Vision 2 app connectivity works flawlessly for recording and sharing footage.
The unit fits in a chest pocket for easy access while stalking.
Customer photos show the incredible detail this 640 sensor captures.
Users report identifying animals at 100+ yards that other units couldn’t resolve.
The three sensitivity levels optimize image rendering for different conditions.
I found the mid setting worked best for most hunting scenarios.
High sensitivity excels in extremely cold conditions.
The left-handed controls work well for southpaws.
Resolution: 384x288
NETD: <18mK
Lens: 19mm
Battery: 8 hours
Weight: 8.8 oz
The Pulsar Axion XQ19 packs true 384 resolution into an incredibly compact package.
At just 8.8 ounces, this is one of the lightest 384-resolution thermal monoculars available.
The sub-18mK NETD rating provides excellent sensitivity for detecting subtle heat differences.
I carried this unit for three days straight on a Texas hog hunt.
Customer submitted photo
It never weighed me down or got in the way.
The 19mm f/1.0 lens offers 1.5-6x digital zoom for versatility in the field.
The 640×400 AMOLED display delivers crisp images with good contrast.
Users report better battery life than scope-style thermals, with up to 8 hours of runtime.
The IPX7 waterproof rating means it can handle rain and wet conditions without issues.
Customer images validate the compact size and build quality.
A unique feature is the green monochrome color palette.
This option works well in certain lighting conditions where traditional white hot or black hot creates eye strain.
The magnesium-alloy body feels premium despite the light weight.
Pulsar’s 5-year limited warranty shows confidence in their product.
The unit is designed as a scanner first and foremost.
For longer-range identification, you’ll want a larger lens option.
Resolution: 256x192
NETD: <35mK
Zoom: 1.5-12x
WiFi: Yes
Recording: Yes
The ATN BlazeSeeker-210 proves you don’t have to spend a fortune to get functional thermal imaging.
At around $500, this 256×192 resolution monocular offers incredible value for beginners.
I recommend this unit for hunters getting their first thermal.
The learning curve is gentle and the performance is adequate for most scenarios.
The WiFi connectivity lets you view the thermal feed on your smartphone.
Customer submitted photo
This is a game-changer for sharing with a hunting buddy.
Two people can watch the same screen without crowding the eyepiece.
Users report detecting deer and cattle at distances up to 600 yards.
For identification, you’ll want to stay within 150 yards or so.
The black hot mode works exceptionally well for scanning open areas.
Customer photos show the unit detecting wildlife through light cover.
Battery life never runs out during field trips according to multiple users.
ATN includes five color palettes including white hot, black hot, and various alarm modes.
The built-in recording captures video and photos to a MicroSD card.
The 1.5-12x digital zoom provides flexibility for different ranges.
Some users report app glitches when downloading images.
The functionality works for viewing but can be finicky for saving files.
Resolution: 256x192
Weight: 0.44 lbs
Zoom: 4x
Battery: 4 hours
EIS: Yes
The RIX Pocket K2 is smaller than a rangefinder and lighter than most smartphones.
At just 0.44 pounds, this thermal disappears in your pocket until you need it.
I used it as a dedicated spotter so I didn’t have to shoulder my rifle constantly.
The integrated sliding lens cover is a brilliant design feature.
There’s nothing to lose or forget in the field.
The Resolution Enhanced Technology uses AI algorithms to double effective pixels.
The 800×600 OLED display provides good contrast and clarity.
Electronic Image Stabilization reduces shake and the vertigo some users experience with thermal.
Users report excellent performance up to 150 yards for identifying small animals.
Beyond that, images become fuzzy for precise identification.
The IP67 rating means it handles rain and dust without issues.
Customer photos show the incredibly compact size.
This unit fits in places other thermals simply can’t go.
The four color palettes include red, full color, white hot, and black hot.
Users love detecting heat signatures from urine and scat to check bedding freshness.
Some quality control issues exist with units failing after a few months.
The menu controls can be frustrating to use in the dark.
Battery life is not a strong point compared to competitors.
Resolution: 160x120
Range: 90m
Refresh: 9Hz
Battery: Up to 7 hours
Weight: 5.9 oz
The FLIR Scout TKx is a proven entry-level thermal with over 1,100 reviews.
FLIR’s reputation in the thermal industry is unmatched.
The Scout TKx delivers reliable basic thermal imaging for casual users.
The 160×120 resolution provides detection within 100 yards.
I tested it around my property for wildlife observation.
It easily detected deer, raccoons, and even stray cats through light cover.
The eight color palettes give you options for different conditions.
White hot works best for most scenarios.
The red hot mode preserves night adaptation effectively.
Video and photo capture let you document your observations.
Users report seeing footprints and heat signatures on carpet and ground.
The simple interface makes this ideal for thermal beginners.
There’s no complex menu system to navigate.
The compact pocket-sized design fits easily in a jacket or pants pocket.
Customer photos confirm the build quality is adequate for light use.
The biggest complaint is battery life at about 2 hours of intermittent use.
The auto-adjusting temperature range can hide targets when bright objects enter the frame.
This is a common frustration among users.
Resolution: 384x288
NETD: <25mK
Detection: 990m
Refresh: 50Hz
WiFi: Yes
The ATN BlazeTrek-319 excels at one critical hunting task: blood trailing.
With its sub-25mK NETD rating, this unit detects residual heat that other thermals miss.
I tracked a wounded buck through thick brush for over 400 yards.
The heat signature in the blood trail was visible even 30 minutes after the shot.
The 384×288 sensor provides good detail for identification at reasonable ranges.
Customer submitted photo
Users report spotting animals at extreme distances beyond 1500 yards.
This is detection, not identification, but still impressive for a 19mm lens.
The six color palettes include white hot, black hot, iron red, alarm, sepia, and green hot.
The built-in Wi-Fi connects to your smartphone for control and recording.
MicroSD card support up to 256GB gives you plenty of storage for footage.
Customer photos show the unit’s effectiveness in real hunting conditions.
Many hunters prefer this over FLIR options specifically for blood trailing.
The residual heat detection makes finding wounded game much easier.
The 50Hz refresh rate keeps the image smooth while scanning.
Some users report battery drain issues if the unit isn’t powered off properly.
Occasional technical problems include colored lines and passcode issues.
Resolution: 384x288
LRF: 1100 yards
Battery: APS5
WiFi: Stream Vision 2
IPX7: Yes
The Pulsar Axion 2 LRF combines thermal imaging with a built-in laser rangefinder.
This integration eliminates the need to carry a separate rangefinder in the field.
The LRF provides accurate distance measurement out to 1,100 yards.
I found this incredibly useful when setting up for long shots on predator stands.
Knowing the exact distance helps with shot placement and scope adjustment.
The Lynred thermal sensor provides quality 384×288 resolution imaging.
Three sensitivity levels optimize performance for different conditions.
The APS5 rechargeable battery system delivers excellent run time.
Stream Vision 2 app enables Wi-Fi connectivity to your smartphone.
Users report successfully locating owls and birds in daylight with this unit.
Customer images show the rangefinder reticle in action.
The compact design fits easily in a pack or pocket.
Pulsar’s 3-year limited warranty provides peace of mind.
The IPX7 waterproof rating ensures all-weather reliability.
Some users note the image quality isn’t as good as higher-end Pulsar models.
The screen refresh rate seems slower than some competitors.
The rangefinder reticle disappears in red color mode.
Sensor: Dual spectrum
Display: 1024x768 OLED
Zoom: 1x-8x
Warranty: 5 years
LRF: Yes
The AGM Fuzion offers something no other thermal monocular provides: true fusion vision.
This dual-spectrum device combines thermal and optical imaging into one display.
You can view thermal only, optical only, or a fused combination of both.
The fusion mode helps identify objects by combining heat signatures with visual details.
I found this particularly useful when trying to distinguish bucks from does at distance.
The built-in laser rangefinder provides accurate distance measurement.
AGM’s 5-year warranty is the best in class and shows their confidence.
The 1024×768 OLED display provides a clear, bright image.
Users report detecting objects through smoke, fog, rain, and snow.
This is where thermal truly shines compared to traditional night vision.
The 50Hz refresh rate keeps the image smooth while scanning.
Battery life runs about 4 hours per battery.
Core: ArmaCore 320
Frame Rate: 60Hz
Weight: Under 210g
Mount: Mini-rail
Display: 1024x768
The Armasight Sidekick 320 is the smallest thermal monocular on the market.
At under 210 grams, it’s designed specifically for helmet-mounted use.
The 60Hz frame rate provides the smoothest thermal image available.
I tested this unit mounted to a tactical helmet for hands-free scanning.
The built-in mini-rail makes helmet mounting simple and secure.
Law enforcement officers will appreciate the compact size and lightweight design.
Users report detecting animals not visible with PVS-14 night vision.
This demonstrates thermal’s advantage over traditional image intensification.
The unit fits in a chest pocket when not helmet mounted.
Made and manufactured in the USA, which matters to some buyers.
Customer photos show the helmet-mounted configuration.
The simplified 3-button controls are easy to operate with gloves.
One-touch video recording captures evidence or documentation.
The built-in compass aids in navigation and target location.
A major limitation is the device won’t operate below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
This severely limits its usefulness for cold-weather hunting.
Battery life is only about 1 hour on CR123A batteries.
Resolution: 384x288
NETD: <18mK
Display: 1440x1080 OLED
Battery: 14 hours
LRF: Yes
The ATN BlazeHunter Pro features the largest, highest-resolution display in its class.
The 1440×1080 OLED display shows thermal images with incredible detail.
With a sub-18mK NETD rating, this professional-grade sensor detects minimal temperature differences.
The 14-hour battery life with replaceable batteries is unmatched in the industry.
Customer submitted photo
I tested this unit during an extended hog hunting operation in Texas.
The display quality made identifying targets easier than any other thermal I’ve used.
The built-in laser rangefinder provides instant distance measurements.
Six color palettes give you options for any lighting condition.
The Wi-Fi connectivity allows sharing with up to four people simultaneously.
This is great for guiding a hunting party or teaching new hunters.
The unit weighs under 0.8 lbs despite the large display.
Build quality feels premium with a comfortable grip.
Some users report app connectivity issues and reliability concerns.
Thermal Imaging: Detects heat signatures and creates images based on temperature differences. Works in complete darkness and through obscurants like fog, smoke, and light vegetation.
Night Vision: Amplifies existing light (moonlight, starlight) to create visible images. Requires some ambient light and is blocked by fog, smoke, and dense cover.
After using both technologies extensively, I’ve found thermal excels for detection while night vision is better for identification.
Thermal sees what night vision can’t: heat signatures through total darkness and cover.
For predator hunting, thermal is unmatched for scanning and locating game.
Night vision still has its place for spotting and stalking when you need to identify specific features.
Many serious hunters use both: thermal for scanning, night vision for confirmation.
| Feature | Thermal | Night Vision |
|---|---|---|
| Works in total darkness | Yes | No (needs some light) |
| Sees through fog/smoke | Yes | No |
| Detects through cover | Yes | No |
| Identification at range | Moderate | Better |
| Price | Expensive | Moderate |
Thermal resolution determines image clarity and detail.
Common resolutions include 160×120, 256×192, 320×256, 384×288, and 640×480.
Higher resolution means better identification at longer ranges.
For most hunters, 256×192 or 320×256 provides adequate performance.
Seasoned hunters targeting game beyond 200 yards should consider 384×288 or 640×480.
Quick Summary: 256×192 works for detection within 150 yards. 384×288 provides good identification to 300 yards. 640×480 offers premium performance beyond 400 yards.
NETD (Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference): Measures a thermal sensor’s ability to detect subtle temperature differences. Lower numbers indicate better sensitivity. <20mK is excellent, <35mK is good, <50mK is adequate.
NETD rating affects image quality in challenging conditions.
Cold weather and minimal temperature differences require better NETD performance.
Units with <20mK NETD provide crisp images even when heat signatures are subtle.
I noticed the difference during a cold November hunt.
My <20mK unit showed clear animal outlines while a <35mK unit struggled to separate wildlife from the background.
Manufacturers often list detection range.
This means seeing a heat signature exists, not knowing what it is.
Identification range is much shorter.
Plan accordingly based on your hunting style.
| Resolution | Detection Range | Identification Range |
| 160×120 | 100 yards | 50 yards |
| 256×192 | 400 yards | 150 yards |
| 384×288 | 800 yards | 300 yards |
| 640×480 | 1200+ yards | 500+ yards |
Refresh rate affects how smooth the image appears when scanning.
Common options are 9Hz, 30Hz, 50Hz, and 60Hz.
Higher refresh rates feel smoother and more natural.
9Hz is adequate for stationary viewing but feels choppy when panning.
50Hz and 60Hz provide fluid motion similar to video.
I recommend 50Hz minimum for hunters scanning moving targets.
Nothing ends a hunt faster than a dead thermal.
Look for units with at least 4-5 hours of advertised battery life.
Real-world battery life is often less than manufacturer claims.
Cold weather reduces battery performance significantly.
Consider units with replaceable batteries for all-night hunts.
The TOPDON TS004 with 11-hour battery life is a standout.
Most quality units now provide 4-7 hours of runtime.
Lens diameter affects detection range and field of view.
Smaller lenses (19-25mm) offer wider fields but shorter range.
Larger lenses (35-50mm+) provide longer range but narrower views.
For wooded hunting, smaller lenses work well.
Open country hunters benefit from larger lenses.
Thermal monocular regulations vary by state for hunting applications.
Some states prohibit thermal for deer hunting.
Others allow thermal only for predators and varmints.
Check your local regulations before purchasing.
Export restrictions also apply to high-end thermal equipment.
Units with certain specifications may require export licenses.
The AGM Taipan V2 is the best thermal monocular for hunting due to its exceptional thermal sensitivity under 20mK NETD and 950-meter detection range. For budget hunters, the TOPDON TS004 offers 11-hour battery life at an affordable price. Premium users should choose the Pulsar Axion 2 XG35 for its 640×480 resolution and superior image quality.
Thermal monocular detection range varies by resolution and lens size. Entry-level 160×120 units detect to about 100 yards. Mid-range 256×192 and 320×256 units typically detect to 400-600 yards. High-end 384×288 units can detect to 800+ yards. Premium 640×480 models offer detection beyond 1200 yards. Identification range is typically one-third to one-half of detection range.
Thermal imaging detects heat signatures and works in complete darkness through fog, smoke, and light vegetation. Night vision amplifies existing light and requires some ambient illumination. Thermal excels at detection while night vision provides better identification at range. Thermal cannot see through glass or water, while night vision can. Thermal is generally more expensive than traditional night vision.
NETD stands for Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference. It measures a thermal sensor’s ability to detect subtle temperature differences, expressed in millikelvin (mK). Lower numbers indicate better sensitivity. Under 20mK is excellent, under 35mK is good, and under 50mK is adequate. Lower NETD values provide better image quality in challenging conditions with minimal temperature differences.
Quality thermal monoculars range from about $400 to over $3,000. Budget options under $600 offer 160×120 to 256×192 resolution. Mid-range units from $800 to $1,500 provide 320×256 to 384×288 resolution. Premium thermal monoculars from $2,000 to $3,500+ feature 640×480 resolution and advanced features. Expect to pay at least $500 for a functional hunting thermal.
Thermal monocular legality varies by state and game species. Many states allow thermal for predator and varmint hunting including coyotes, hogs, and rodents. Some states restrict or prohibit thermal use for deer hunting. A few states have no restrictions. Always check your local wildlife agency regulations before using thermal equipment for hunting. Federal export restrictions may also apply.
For hunting under 150 yards, 256×192 resolution works well. Most hunters find 320×256 or 384×288 adequate for ranges to 300 yards. Long-range hunters targeting game beyond 300 yards should consider 640×480 resolution. Higher resolution provides better identification but costs significantly more. Match your resolution choice to your typical hunting range and budget.
640×480 resolution provides better image quality and identification range than 384×288. 640 resolution offers about twice the detail, allowing confident identification at much longer ranges. However, 640 thermal costs significantly more, often 2-3 times the price. For most hunters, 384 resolution provides adequate performance at a more reasonable price. Choose 640 if budget allows and long-range identification is critical.
