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The 5 Best Thermal Monoculars of 2024
Everybody wants to know what goes bump in the night, even if it doesn’t bump and even if it’s not nighttime. Happily, thermal monoculars, a new and energetic category of gear, often identify what used to be invisible. They can help you see everything from human intruders on the other side of a fence, to coyotes and raccoons crouching in the dark, to a problematic wire in a household electrical outlet.
We’re talking about monoculars, rangefinders, and cameras that use temperature variations, rather than visible light, to form images that can be captured as photographs or videos, or simply delivered to your eye to answer that ancient question: what’s out there?
I’ve used this new class of “optics” over the past year to find newborn calves in a deadly blizzard, to find my ice-fishing buddies in the fog, to detect hidden electrical problems that might burn my house down, to hunt coyotes at midnight, and to finally even the odds on crop-raiding feral hogs. You could also use them to recover wounded game where it’s legal.
Here are my picks for the best thermal monoculars, which range from flashlight-looking monoculars to small thermal viewers that connect to smartphones.
Best Overall: Leica Calonox View
Best Rangefinding: Pulsar Axion 2 LRF XG35
Best Entry-Level: FLIR Scout TKx
Best Phone-Enabled: Xinfrared T2 Pro
Best for Hunting: Zeiss DTI 3/35
How I Tested the Best Thermal Monoculars
The field includes brand-new units that are just hitting the market this winter, others that I’ve tested over the course of the past year, and a few oddballs. My intention wasn’t to test every unit on the market, but rather handle a representative sample of products in order to provide a performance baseline. Also note that we’re not covering thermal rifle scopes in this particular roundup.
I started by measuring attributes, assessing how far each thermal monocular could effectively detect a standard chemical hand warmer in the dark.
I then used each unit on midnight-shift rounds of a calving operation to detect cows that wander away from the herd at night to give birth. The thermal mapping capability of these viewers can even show which cows are close to calving based on rising abdominal temperature.
I also used the thermals on a series of sub-zero winter coyote and cottontail hunts to test their capabilities in the field and assess how their batteries would hold up to extreme cold.
I enlisted the help of a digital (and thermal) native, Kaden Fossum, who independently tested all the units over the course of the fall and winter from his home in southeast Montana. Fossum measured the range, thermal sensitivity, and field-worthiness of each unit over several weeks of coyote hunting. Most of the videos and images that accompany each product review is from Fossum’s field work.
Both Fossum and I assessed each unit’s imagery, both the type and utility of the palettes available and the resolution of the images. And we scored each unit’s ease of use and ergonomics.
The Parson Russell Terrier: A Hunter's Compact Powerhouse
The Parson Russell Terrier (PRT) – don't mistake it for its slightly leggier cousin, the Russell Terrier – is a tenacious, energetic, and purpose-bred hunting machine packed into a relatively small frame. These dogs aren't just pets; they're working partners built for the chase.
What Does a Parson Russell Terrier Hunt?
Originally developed in England to bolt foxes, the PRT is a versatile hunter. Here's what they excel at:
Fox: This is their bread and butter. Their size and fearless nature allow them to enter dens and flush out foxes.
Badger: Similar to fox hunting, PRTs can go to ground after badgers.
Rats and Other Vermin: Don't underestimate their ratting abilities. They're quick, agile, and have a high prey drive.
Squirrels & Small Game: In some regions, they're used to flush squirrels, rabbits, and other small game from cover.
Above Ground: Despite excelling underground, they are very good at above ground hunting.
Wild Boar (Specific Situations): While not their primary quarry, some hunters use PRTs to bay up wild boar, allowing larger dogs to move in for the catch. Important: This requires careful training and is not recommended for inexperienced handlers or dogs.
Where Do You Find Them Hunting?
The Parson Russell Terrier's hunting heritage is strongest in:
United Kingdom: Naturally, the UK remains a stronghold for PRTs used in traditional fox and badger hunting (where legal).
United States: They've gained popularity in the US, particularly in the Midwest and South, for hunting small game and vermin control.
Australia: With its large rabbit population, Australia has seen a rise in PRTs used for rabbiting.
Europe: You'll find them working in various European countries, often employed for pest control on farms and in rural areas.
Characteristics and Care: A Hunter's Responsibility
Temperament: PRTs are intelligent, independent, and have a strong will. They're not for the faint of heart. They need consistent training and a job to do to stay happy.
Coat: They come in smooth, broken, and rough coat types, all primarily white with markings. Regular brushing is essential, especially for broken and rough coats, to prevent matting.
Grooming: Keep their nails trimmed, ears clean, and teeth brushed. Pay close attention to their coat after hunts to check for injuries, ticks, and debris.
Health: PRTs are generally healthy but can be prone to certain conditions like lens luxation and patellar luxation. Choose a reputable breeder who screens for these issues.
Exercise: These dogs have endless energy. Daily walks, runs, and playtime are a must. When not hunting, provide them with mentally stimulating activities.
Training for the Hunt: Building a Partnership
Early Socialization: Expose your PRT to various people, places, and sounds from a young age to build a well-adjusted dog.
Obedience Training: A solid foundation in basic obedience (sit, stay, come, etc.) is crucial for control in the field.
Prey Drive Management: Channel their natural prey drive constructively through games like flirt poles and fetch.
Recall: An unwavering recall is paramount for their safety, especially when working off-leash. Use positive reinforcement and make recall the most rewarding command.
Introduction to Quarry: Start with controlled exposures to scents and sounds of your target quarry.
Den Work (If Applicable): If you plan to hunt foxes or badgers, introduce your dog to artificial dens. Always prioritize the animal's welfare and adhere to local laws.
Drill and Exercises for Honing Skills
Scent Tracking: Lay scent trails using animal urine or fur and have your dog follow them.
Retrieving: Practice retrieving dummies or small game (once legally harvested).
Agility Training: Agility courses improve their coordination and agility in rough terrain.
Mock Hunts: Simulate hunting scenarios in a controlled environment to test their skills and build confidence.
Expose to firearms: Some hunters overlook this part of the training, but it is very vital to your dogs success.
In the Field: Understanding Their Strengths
Tenacity: PRTs won't give up easily. This is a valuable trait, but also requires careful management to prevent them from getting into dangerous situations.
Independent Thinking: They're capable of making decisions on their own, which can be an asset when working in dense cover.
Audible Bark: Their loud, clear bark helps you track their location.
Small Size: Their compact size allows them to navigate tight spaces and enter dens.
Endurance: Though small, they have surprising stamina and can work for extended periods.
Important Considerations
Legality: Always be aware of local hunting regulations and laws regarding the use of dogs for hunting.
Safety: Equip your dog with a GPS tracker and a brightly colored vest or collar for visibility.
Respect for Quarry: Ethical hunting practices are paramount. Treat all animals with respect.
Dog Welfare: Monitor your dog closely for signs of fatigue or injury. Provide them with adequate rest, water, and first aid as needed.
The Parson Russell Terrier is not just a dog; it's a partner in the field. With proper training, care, and a deep understanding of their unique characteristics, they can be a valuable asset to any hunter. Treat them right, respect their instincts, and they'll reward you with years of loyal service.
