Hunters need certain pieces of equipment and rifle accessories to be successful in their sport. And, a thermal scope attachment is one of those pieces of equipment. In a way, it allows you to see your prey, even when they're far away and in low light conditions.
Now, if you are a hunter in Australia, you know that there are different thermal scope attachments on the market today. And, you might be wondering how to choose one for your rifle. Here is a guide to help you make the right decision for your needs.
Checklist For Buying A Rifle Thermal Scope Attachment
The thermal scope attachment that you buy for your rifle will make a huge difference in your hunting success. Here is a checklist to ensure that you buy the right one.
• Type of Game You Will Be Hunting
• Your Skill Level
• Range
• Hunting Environment
• Scope's Features
• Brand
• Your Budget
Type Of Game You Will Be Hunting
The thermal scope attachment that you choose should be suited for the type of game that you will be hunting.
If you are going to be hunting small games, then you will need a different attachment than if you were hunting large games. In this situation, you could look for Burris scopes Australia gun shops sell with a lower magnification and a smaller field of view. They should also have less weight and are more compact.
Large game thermal scope attachments, on the other hand, have more power and features. They are also larger and heavier. However, these thermal scope attachments will give you a clear image of your target, even if it's far away.
If you plan on doing both small and large game hunting, then you might want to consider getting two different thermal scope attachments—one for each purpose. That way, you will always have the right tool for the job.
Your Skill Level
It is important to remember that not all rifle scopes are created equal. In fact, some thermal scope attachments are much easier to use than others.
If you are a beginner, then you might want to look for a thermal scope attachment that is easy to use and has clear instructions. On the other hand, if you are more experienced, you might be able to handle a thermal scope attachment that is more complex and has more features.
In general, it is always best to start with a simpler thermal scope attachment and then move up to something more advanced when you are ready. For example, you can start with Vortex rifle scopes, such as the Crossfire II, and then move up to the Razor HD Gen III later on. That way, you won't get overwhelmed by all of the features as you improve your hunting skills.
Finding a rifle scope attachment that matches your skill level will allow you to get the most out of it.
Range
The thermal scope attachment that you choose should also be suited for the range at which you will be hunting. If you are going to be hunting close range, then you won't need as much magnification and features as if you were hunting long range.
To determine the range capability of a certain rifle scope, you can check the product's specifications. Most manufacturers will list the range at which the thermal scope attachment can be used effectively. Keep in mind that rifle scopes designed for long-range hunting are usually more expensive than those designed for short-range hunting.
So, if you only need a thermal scope attachment for close range, then you might want to consider saving some money and getting a cheaper model.
Hunting Environment
Rifle scopes are built with different environments in mind. For example, some thermal scope attachments work better in low-light conditions, while others work better in bright conditions.
If you are going to be hunting in low-light conditions, then you will need a thermal scope attachment that has good light gathering capabilities. For example, you can opt for Burris rifle scopes with a large objective lens and a high magnification power, such as the XTR II.
On the other hand, if you are going to be hunting in bright conditions, then you might want to look for a thermal scope attachment with an adjustable objective lens. This way, you can control the amount of light that enters the scope and avoid getting blinded by the sun.
Another factor that plays a big role in your hunting success is the weather condition where you will be hunting. If it would be mostly wet, then you need a thermal scope attachment that is waterproof and fog-proof. With it, you can still see your target even if it's raining or there's a lot of moisture in the air.
Scope's Features
Unlike older models, modern rifle scopes come with a lot of features that can make your hunting experience more enjoyable.
For example, you can find Burris scopes for sale with an integrated laser rangefinder, which can be very handy when you are trying to take a shot at a moving target. There are also other models that come with a night vision mode, which allows you to hunt even when it's dark outside. This is a great feature if you are planning on doing some night hunting.
Some thermal scope attachments of today even come with WiFi capabilities, which allow you to connect the scope to your smartphone or tablet. With this feature, you can record your hunts and share them with your friends later on.
Whichever type of hunter you are, using a scope with the right features will make your hunting trips more convenient and fun.
Brand
There is a plethora of rifle scope brands on the market today, but there are a couple of brands that most Australian hunters trust—Vortex and Burris. Let us do a quick comparison of the two brands to help you decide which one is the better choice for you.
Vortex Rifle Scopes vs Burris Rifle Scopes
Vortex scopes are known for their durability and reliability. They also offer a wide range of features that are suited for different types of hunting. But what sets Vortex apart from other brands is their VIP warranty, which gives you a lifetime guarantee on their products. However, this privilege can vary depending on the Vortex accessories you buy.
On the other hand, Burris thermal scope attachments might not be as durable as Vortex scopes, but they make up for it with their affordability. You can find a lot of cheap Burris scopes without sacrificing quality and performance. In addition, most of their products come with features that are very handy for hunters, such as an integrated laser rangefinder and a night vision mode.
Burris is also known for manufacturing good-quality hunting accessories. Burris binoculars, for instance, are some of the best in the market. So, if you are looking for a one-stop shop for all your thermal scope attachment needs, then Burris is the way to go.
Your Budget
Last but not least, you need to consider your budget when choosing a thermal scope attachment. There is a wide range of prices for different types and brands of scopes, so it's important that you set a budget beforehand.
If you are on a tight budget, then you can opt for cheaper brands, like Bushnell or Tasco. However, keep in mind that you might have to sacrifice some features if you go for the more affordable options.
On the other hand, if money is not an issue, then you can splurge on high-end brands. These thermal scope attachments come with top-of-the-line features and superior optics. But of course, they come with a hefty price tag as well.
At the end of the day, your choice will depend on your budget and your needs as a hunter.
Rifle Thermal Scopes FAQs
Q: How much do rifle scopes cost in Australia?
A: This depends on the type and brand of the scope you buy. But to give you a general idea, it can range from $2,000 to $5,000.
Q: How do I care for my rifle scope?
A: Proper care and maintenance are important to extend the life of your thermal scope attachment. Be sure to clean it regularly with a lens cloth. You should also avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures and moisture.
Q: Can I use my rifle scope for other purposes?
A: Yes, you can. Rifle scopes can be used for different types of shooting, such as target practice or long-range shooting.
Q: Where to buy rifle scopes in Australia?
A: The best way to buy rifle scopes is online. There are a lot of online stores that offer thermal scope attachments at different price points. You can also find good deals and discounts if you buy from an online store.
Conclusion
Thermal scopes are becoming more popular among Australian hunters as they provide several benefits over traditional optical scopes. They allow you to see your target even in complete darkness and bad weather conditions, making them ideal for night hunting or hunting in difficult terrain. In addition, thermal scopes are less likely to give away your position since they don't produce any light.
With the information provided in this hunting rifle guide, you will be well on your way to finding the right thermal scope attachment for your needs. Happy hunting!
