Best Thermal Scope for Coyote Hunting: What to Look For Before You Buy

Writer: Chad Annon

Buying your first thermal scope for predator hunting can feel overwhelming.

Resolution numbers. Base magnification. Pixel pitch. NETD ratings. LRF. Recording features. App connectivity.

I hunt predators in real-world conditions — humidity, rolling hills, wood lines, mixed ag ground. Not showroom lighting. Equipment performs differently when the air is thick and coyotes hang up at 180 yards. What works on paper doesn’t always work in the field.

It’s easy to get buried in specs and end up spending thousands of dollars on the wrong setup.

After years of hunting predators at night and helping customers choose the right equipment, I’ve seen the same mistakes over and over.

Here’s what actually matters when choosing a thermal scope for coyote hunting.

1. Detection Range vs. Practical Shooting Range

Manufacturers love listing extreme detection ranges like 2,000+ yards.

That sounds impressive — but let’s be honest.

Most coyote shots happen inside 300 yards.

What matters more than max detection range is:

• Image clarity at 100–300 yards

• Target recognition at practical distances

• Smooth zoom without pixelation

  
  

Don’t buy a scope just because it says “2,400 yard detection.” Buy it because it performs where you actually hunt.

2. Resolution Matters — But Not the Way You Think

Resolution (384 vs 640 vs 1280) affects image detail.

Higher resolution gives you:

• Better target definition

• Clearer zoom

• More confidence at distance

  
  

But here’s the truth:

A well-tuned 384 unit can kill coyotes all night long.

You don’t need 1280 resolution to be effective — but you may want it if you hunt wide-open country or like more image refinement.

Match the optic to your terrain, not your ego.

3. Base Magnification Is Critical

This is one of the most overlooked factors.

Too much base magnification:

• Makes scanning harder

• Narrows your field of view

• Slows target acquisition

  
  

Too little magnification:

• Limits shot confidence at distance

  
  

For most predator hunters in mixed terrain, a moderate base magnification gives the best balance between field of view and usable zoom.

4. LRF: Do You Really Need It?

Laser rangefinders are becoming more common.

They’re useful if:

• You shoot longer distances

• You hunt unfamiliar properties

• You want precise holds

  
  

But if most of your shots are under 200 yards on known ground, it may not be necessary.

Don’t pay for features you won’t use.

5. Image Quality in Real Conditions

Specs don’t tell you how a scope performs in:

• Humidity

• Light fog

• Temperature swings

• Brushy wood lines

  
  

That’s where real-world experience matters.

Some units look great on paper but struggle in Midwest or Appalachian humidity. Others handle environmental conditions much better.

That difference doesn’t show up on a spec sheet.

6. Don’t Buy Based on Price Alone

Thermals range from a few thousand dollars to well over $7,000.

The cheapest option often leads to:

• Regret

• Upgrading within a year

• Spending more money long-term

  
  

At the same time, the most expensive option isn’t always necessary.

The right choice is the one that fits:

• Your terrain

• Your shot distances

• Your budget

• Your long-term hunting goals

  
  

The Most Common Mistake I See

Hunters buy based on hype or brand popularity.

Instead of asking:“What does everyone say is the best?”

Ask:“What fits how I actually hunt?”

That question alone can save you thousands.

Final Thoughts

Thermal scopes are a serious investment. When chosen correctly, they completely change how you hunt predators at night.

But when chosen incorrectly, they become an expensive lesson.

If you’re unsure what thermal setup makes sense for your situation, reach out directly or listen to the Alpha Outside Podcast where we break down real-world performance.

Choosing the right optic isn’t about chasing specs.

It’s about building a system that works when the coyotes show up.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Frequently Asked Questions

What resolution is best for coyote hunting?

For most predator hunters, 384 or 640 resolution works well depending on terrain and shot distance.

Is 1280 resolution worth it?

It can provide improved image clarity, especially for open terrain and longer shots, but it’s not necessary for everyone.

Google loves FAQ sections.