Is a Thermal Monocular Worth It?

Considering the fact that even affordable thermal optics can run several thousand dollars, you might justifiably be wondering if something like a thermal monocular is worth the price, especially if you already have a thermal scope. 

So let’s peel back the layers before you go and spring for a thermal monocular from iRay USA, Nocpix or PULSAR.

It’s Worth It If…

• You’re used to thermal binoculars but you don’t like night blindness. Thermal binoculars are convenient, but since they engage both eyes, with the wrong color palette, they can cause night blindness right away. A thermal monocular only lets you view through one eye, preserving your night vision in the other. 
• You do a lot of scanning and scouting. One way or the other, if you spend a lot of time scanning or scouting at night, a thermal monocular or something like it is definitely worth it. If you don’t want a thermal monocular, consider an IR version instead. 
• You know you need an accessory thermal optic but you’re price conscious. Sometimes a thermal scope doesn’t cut it and you need another optic to support you in the field at night. Binoculars represent one option but they are fairly expensive, which makes monoculars more appealing to some.

It’s Not Worth It If…

• Your thermal scope is enough for you. For some night hunters, a thermal scope that enables them to execute accurate shots is not only all they need, it’s more than they need. If this sounds like your case, that’s all you need.
• Using one eye gives you a headache. Some night hunters find that, though using only one eye at a time preserves their night vision in the other eye, it is uncomfortable or even causes a headache. For these night hunters, a thermal monocular is probably just not worth it. 
• You don’t do a lot of scanning or scouting. If you don’t have a need for a thermal optic for scanning or scouting, then you hardly need to dig deeper. The debate is settled for you, just use your current setup and don’t put more money into optics. 

Not Sure? Get a Multi-Function Thermal Sope 

The other element to this is that if you think you could sometimes benefit from a standalone unit like a thermal monocular for scanning or scouting, but you don’t want a dedicated monocular, get a small clip-on thermal optic. 

Clip-on thermal optics have the same basic form factor and controls as most thermal monoculars, can easily be attached to or removed from a rifle’s rail, and generally are small and light. They also only let you use one eye at a time, just like a monocular. 

Plus, some of them are fairly affordable, and they can run double-duty not just as a thermal monocular but as a thermal scope. Many are also compatible with a variety of mounts and can be helmet-mounted, for instance. 

So that is one option if you don’t want to shell out the cash for a dedicated thermal monocular. 

Shop Thermal Scopes, Monoculars, Clip-Ons and More at Dark Night Outdoors 

Whether you landed here looking for a thermal monocular or have become convinced after reading this that a clip-on thermal optic is more to your speed, get what you need online at Dark Night Outdoors. They carry a wide range of thermal optics from the top brands, like iRay USA and Nocpix, and can help you out. Give them a call at 309-781-8421 if you have any questions or would like a personalized recommendation and they should be able to help.

For More Information About Thermal Scope and Thermal Binoculars Please Visit: Dark Night Outdoors LLC.