Thermal imaging scopes
“Night vision technology” refers to night vision devices ( image intensifiers or thermal imaging technology ) as aiming optics – i.e., with their own digital reticle. In Germany, these can only be obtained with authorization (from authorities, forestry operations, etc.).
Buyer's guide
Accessories
Thermal imaging riflescopes – What you need to know about these aiming devices
A thermal imaging riflescope is not an attachment for your daytime optic, but a standalone aiming device. You mount it directly onto your firearm, just like a conventional riflescope – using a standard ring mount and typically a 30 mm tube diameter . The eye relief is also very similar to that of a standard daytime optic. The major difference between a thermal imaging clip-on device and a thermal imaging attachment lies not in the optics themselves, but in the underlying principle: With a clip-on device, you attach the thermal imaging module to the front of your riflescope, while with a riflescope, the thermal image replaces the entire optic. For you as a hunter, this means different operation, different handling, and different legal considerations.
Riflescope or clip-on device – the difference in practice
With a clip-on thermal imaging device , the thermal imaging module is attached to your standard optic via an adapter. This noticeably alters the rifle's balance – especially when combined with a suppressor, the rifle becomes heavier at the front. With a dedicated riflescope, the balance remains unchanged, just as you're used to with your standard optic. The two systems also differ in their zeroing process: With a clip-on device, the thermal image is aligned pixel by pixel with the optical axis of the riflescope – if anything shifts mechanically, the point of impact moves with it. With a riflescope, the image remains stationary; instead, only the reticle moves click by click to the point of impact. One system, one focal plane – no need to align two components.
Advantage of a riflescope
Advantage of attachment device
Advantage of a riflescope
Advantage of attachment device
Operation close to the shooter
Zoom, focus, and menu controls on the thermal imaging riflescope are located exactly where you would expect them to be on a standard scope – close to the eye and easily accessible. With longer clip-on attachments, you sometimes have to reach far forward to access the controls. This is completely eliminated here.
When zeroing, you adjust only the reticle, not the image. This works exactly like with a daytime optic: from the point of impact to the holdover point, adjust the X-axis and Y-axis separately.
The possession and operation of a thermal imaging riflescope This is currently not permitted in Germany. Violation is considered a criminal offense and can lead to the loss of firearms reliability and thus the hunting license. Only the use of... is permitted. Thermal imaging attachments on blackwild, robberywild and invasive species.
Why it's still worth taking a look at the technology
Even though thermal imaging riflescopes are not currently approved for use in Germany, the image quality of modern sensors, the processing power of processors, and the level of detail resolution are developing rapidly. It's worthwhile to understand the technology and follow the debate surrounding potential future approval. Those who opt for a thermal imaging clip-on device today already benefit from the same sensor and image technology found in riflescopes.
Legal notice
*The "recommended maximum shooting distance” is an assessment from our company and indicates the distance at which a fair shot at black is usually possible, depending on the prevailing environmental conditionswild can be applied for. Please also note the country-specific requirements! (e.g. NRW: Applications with night vision / WB only as part of the fight against ASF exclusively from the pulpit at a maximum of 100m)
Legal Notice : This is night vision technology, specifically a night vision device with its own digital reticle. In Germany, this type of device can only be obtained with authorization (from authorities, forestry operations, etc.). We are obligated to verify your authorization for purchase with the relevant authorities. The delivery time begins from the date of successful official verification. Possession without this authorization is illegal in Germany.
LEGAL REMINDER FOR EUROPEAN CLIENTS: This product may be forbidden to own and / or use in the respective jurisdiction. Please be aware that transporting this device in Germany (without governmental permission) is strictly forbidden!
[All information is supplied without liability and all obligation is excluded due to faulty, incomplete or outdated information. Please research the legal implications for this device in your jurisdiction.]
