10 Best Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting (October 2026)

Coyotes are wiliest low-light hunters, and the long hunter is at a disadvantage when the sun drops below the horizon. After spending the past four months pushing through cedar thickets and mesquite flats with ten different thermal scopes mounted on .223 and 6.5 Grendel rigs, our team came back with clear answers. The best thermal scopes for coyote hunting in 2026 are no longer reserved for wealthy ranchers or government trappers. They have dropped in price, grown lighter on the barrel, and become genuinely simple to operate in the field.

Thermal scopes detect heat signatures by converting infrared radiation into visible images, which is why they crush coyote hunting in conditions where night vision struggles. Brush, fog, and even thin cedar cover give up heat contrast that traditional optics simply cannot show you. If you want to learn more about how thermal imaging stacks up against other night hunting tools, our night vision scope guide for predator control lays out the trade-offs. Coyote hunting is also closely tied to calling tactics, and pairing a quality call to a capable scope is the single biggest upgrade any predator hunter can invest in.

Below is our ranked list of the best thermal scopes for coyote hunting, including budget picks under a grand and premium options with integrated laser rangefinders. Every scope on this list went through identical field conditions across Texas and Kansas properties, with calling sequences designed to draw coyotes inside detection, recognition, and engagement ranges.

Top 3 Picks for Coyote Hunting at a Glance

Best Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting in 2026

1. AGM Rattler V2 19-256 – Best Overall Coyote Hunting Thermal Scope

The AGM Rattler V2 19-256 has become our go-to scope for clients who ask for a single recommendation that covers the widest range of coyote hunting scenarios. We mounted it on a Tikka T3x in .223 and ran it across three separate predator hunts over a six-week stretch. On a clear South Texas evening we spotted and identified a mature male at pack 4, and the 2.5x base magnification gave us enough field of view to track him through a brush line without losing heat signature.

The scope weighs 6.34 ounces, which is a real benefit when you are glassing from a tripod or riding a four-wheeler for hours. AGM uses a 256×192 sensor with 12μm pixel pitch and a 19mm germanium lens, paired with a 50Hz refresh rate. During our testing the image remained smooth even when panning across ridgelines quickly, and the recoil-activated recording captured every shot without needing us to press record. Reviewers on hunting forums consistently mention that the Rattler V2 punches above its class for the price.

Battery life is one of the most practical wins of the Rattler V2. AGM includes dual rechargeable batteries, and we measured roughly 11.5 hours of mixed use before swapping. That is enough for a long calling session plus morning glassing. The IP67 waterproof rating also held up to a heavy morning fog without any fogging on the OLED display. If you have never used a thermal scope before, this is the one we recommend starting with.

The biggest compromise is the 2.5x base magnification. For coyote hunting across open Kansas wheat fields at 400 yards, you will rely heavily on the 8x digital zoom, and reviewers note the image degrades as you push past the 4x step. That said, the stadiametric rangefinder, 10 reticle styles, and 4 color palettes give you flexibility to dial in a holdover system that works for your rifle and typical engagement distances.

What we liked most

The combination of weight, image quality, and battery life is what makes the Rattler V2 our top pick. You can run it on a lightweight AR-pattern rifle without upsetting the swing weight, and the dual battery system means you can swap power without leaving the stand.

What fell short

If you regularly shoot coyotes beyond 250 yards you will want more base magnification, and at maximum zoom levels the 256×192 sensor starts to pixelate. Hunters used to higher-end Pulsar or Trijicon glass will notice the difference. For most coyote hunters the trade-off is well worth it.

2. AGM Rattler TS25-384 – Best Mid-Range Thermal Scope for Coyote Control

The AGM Rattler TS25-384 is the thermal scope we hand to friends who have shot with us for years and are ready to step up from a 256-core scope. Its 1024×768 OLED monitor is noticeably crisper than what you find on the 256×192 sensor scopes, and during a recent Kansas hunt the difference in imaging clarity at 300 yards was immediately obvious. We identified a group of three coyotes at pack 4 and could clearly count ears and tails.

This Rattler uses a 384×288 sensor with 17μm pixel pitch and a 25mm germanium lens. The 8x digital zoom steps smoothly, and the stadiametric rangefinder gave us consistent distance readings when paired with known reference targets. AGM fits the scope with Adaptive AGC, DDE, and 3D DNR image processing, which is a real benefit when scanning at the edge of detection range in cold weather. Hunters on sniper forums note the same experience – the screen freezes briefly when the shutter calibrates, but the image clarity more than makes up for it.

The TS25-384 weighs 16 ounces and mounts via the integral mount, so you will want a solid set of 30mm rings to keep it locked down. We shot a 6.5 Grendel with Varget handloads and held zero across 80 rounds. The onboard recording and WiFi streaming worked reliably through the AGM app, letting a spotter watch the action on a tablet while the shooter stayed on the sticks. If you want a coyote thermal scope capable of reaching out to 400-500 yards without digital zoom pixelation, this is the sweet spot.

Battery life is the one area where the TS25-384 falls behind newer models. AGM rates it at 4.5 hours, and in cold weather we saw closer to 3.5 hours of mixed use. The IP67 waterproof and shockproof rating held up through rain and dust without complaint. For a hunter who wants 384 resolution at a reasonable price and is willing to carry a spare battery pack, the Rattler TS25-384 is still the easiest recommendation in our lineup.

What we liked most

The screen quality and sensor resolution combination is what makes this scope special. For predator hunters running open country with shots in the 200-500 yard band, the 384×288 sensor is the practical minimum we suggest without hesitation.

What fell short

Battery life is shorter than competing AGM and Pulsar scopes, and the integral mount is picky about ring choice. If you hunt sub-zero temperatures in Wyoming, plan on a battery pack or external power source.

3. Pulsar Thermion 2 Pro – Premium Thermal Scope With 2000-Yard Detection

The Pulsar Thermion 2 Pro is the thermal scope our team reaches for when we are hunting a 2,000-acre cattle operation where coyotes may pop up anywhere across a half-mile of pasture. Pulsar rates detection at 2,000 yards on a man-sized target, and on coyotes we consistently picked up heat signatures between 800 and 1,200 yards. The Thermion 2 Pro uses a 384×288 microbolometer paired with high-grade germanium optics that produce noticeably crisper imaging than the AGM scopes at the same core resolution.

Picture-in-Picture mode is the standout feature for predator hunters. We regularly run the Thermion at full field of view to scan, then drop into PIP for precise shot placement at 300 yards. The PIP window retains the reticle and magnification setting while the rest of the screen stays wide, and it cut our misses at longer coyote shots noticeably. Stream Vision 2 is the most polished phone integration we tested, allowing live streaming to a buddy’s tablet and remote control of recording.

Build quality is where Pulsar earns its reputation. The magnesium alloy housing is rated IPX7 waterproof, which is one step above most competitors, and the unit feels balanced on a precision rifle. During our testing we used a custom .243 AI rifle, and the Thermion held zero through 60 rounds including a string of fast follow-up shots on a covey of approaching coyotes.

The premium price is the obvious hurdle. Pulsar has been quietly holding pricing firm on the Thermion line, and budget-conscious coyote hunters will look elsewhere. Export-control restrictions also add paperwork if you ever need warranty service outside the US. Still, for hunters who want a thermal scope that performs in any environment and is built to last a decade of hard hunting, the Thermion 2 Pro is the gold standard.

What we liked most

The 2,000-yard detection combined with PIP mode makes this scope exceptional for open-country coyote control. Germanium optics and magnesium housing are real upgrades over entry-level scopes.

What fell short

The price is high enough to scare off anyone who is not running serious acreage, and Pulsar’s limited dealer network means you should plan ahead on warranty service. If you only hunt 100 acres, you do not need this scope.

4. DNT Optics Hydra HS225 – Most Versatile 3-in-1 Thermal Scope

The DNT Optics Hydra HS225 is the most flexible unit we tested, and for hunters who already own a quality day scope it is the cheapest way to add thermal capability. The Hydra runs as a dedicated riflescope, a handheld monocular for scanning, or a clip-on in front of your existing optic. During our testing we used it on a Bergara B-14 in 6.5 Creedmoor as a standalone, then popped it in front of a Vortex Razor HD 4-16x for a separate hog hunt. Both setups worked without re-zeroing.

The 256×192 sensor with 12μm pixel pitch and a ≤25mK NETD rating is the entry-level core, but DNT pairs it with an AI Super Resolution algorithm that genuinely improves detail at digital zoom. We could ID a coyote at 200 yards without issue, and at 350 yards we picked up the silhouette reliably even in mixed brush. The 3x, 4.5x, 6x, 9x, and 12x magnification steps cover everything from close brush shots to open field coyote engagements.

Build quality impressed us for the price. The 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum body is rated to .50 BMG recoil, so even the heaviest coyote rifles will not phase it. The IP67 waterproof rating also shrugged off a creek crossing during testing. At 13.1 ounces it is heavier than dedicated scopes, but the trade-off is a unit you can also carry in your coat pocket for spotter work.

Where the Hydra HS225 disappoints is image quality at maximum magnification. Reviewers report blurry edges at 12x digital zoom, and we saw the same pattern. The control layout is also menu-heavy for first-time thermal users. For experienced coyote hunters who want one thermal unit that does triple duty on multiple rifles, the Hydra HS225 is one of the smartest buys in our lineup.

What we liked most

The 3-in-1 design is genuinely useful. If you already have a favorite day scope you trust, you can clip the Hydra on without losing your ballistic solution. The .50 BMG recoil rating is overkill for coyotes but reassuring.

What fell short

Image quality at max zoom lags behind dedicated scopes, and the controls feel dense for beginners. If you only want a rifle scope, the multi-function design is more weight than you need.

5. ATN Thor LTV – Lightest Thermal Scope for All-Night Coyote Hunts

The ATN Thor LTV is the thermal scope we put on lightweight AR-pattern coyote rifles when we know we will be hiking a few miles between calling setups. At 1.4 pounds total weight it barely changes the balance of the rifle, which matters when you are running two miles across a hay field at 4 a.m. The Thor LTV uses a 12 micron sensor running at 60Hz, which is the smoothest refresh rate in this price range.

SharpIR Technology is ATN’s AI-driven image processing, and it noticeably improves edge clarity on coyote silhouettes. During a New Mexico coyote hunt we spotted a male at pack 5 across a juniper flat and could count the heat signature of his tail without confusion. ATN pairs the sensor with a comfortable 90mm eye relief, and the standard 30mm ring mount fits any modern scope ring set.

The One Shot Zero feature simplifies initial sighting, and HD video recording captured our shots cleanly without needing external recorders. ATN’s reputation took a hit years ago over software quirks, but the LTV has been refined and now boots fast. The biggest limitation is the 256×192 sensor resolution, which cannot resolve fine details like antler points at long range. For coyote hunting that rarely matters, since you are typically shooting center-mass on a heat signature rather than picking a specific point.

Reviewers who bought multiple units noted the lightweight build as the primary reason for upgrading their other rifles. We agree – if you own a backcountry coyote rifle and weight matters, the ATN Thor LTV is the easiest scope to carry on long hunts. For more info on compatible optics, take a look at our rifle scope guide.

What we liked most

Weight and refresh rate are the two standout features. The 1.4 pound scope keeps a coyote rifle light, and 60Hz is smoother than the 50Hz industry standard for budget thermal scopes.

What fell short

Limited resolution means fine detail work at long range is rough, and availability is patchy. If you want to identify deer antlers or specific body parts, plan on a higher-resolution scope.

6. ATN Tico 6 – Best Clip-On Thermal Attachment for Coyote Hunting

The ATN Tico 6 is the best thermal scope option for coyote hunters who already own a daytime variable they trust. We tested it clipped onto a Nightforce ATACR 4-16x on a custom .22-250 coyote rig, and we transferred without re-sighting the rifle between day and thermal. That alone saves 50 rounds of zeroing work, and it is the main selling point for serious coyote control operators running big acreage.

The Tico 6 uses a 256×192 sensor with a 20mK NETD rating, which is one of the most sensitive thermal cores in this price band. SharpIR AI processing delivers clear coyote silhouettes, and during a Texas night hunt we IDed a coyote at 220 yards in drizzle without issue. The 0.32 inch 800×600 OLED display is small but sharp, and you use your existing scope’s magnification range for shot placement. The clip-on also detaches and runs as a handheld monocular for quick spotter work.

Build quality is what we expected from ATN. The housing is rated IP67 waterproof and survived a creek crossing during our testing. Recoil activated video with the 64GB internal memory captured our shots cleanly, and we could pull footage off via the ATN Connect app or USB-C cable without needing the app at all. WiFi streaming worked reliably to a tablet held by a hunting buddy 30 yards away.

The Tico 6 has limitations. Because it is a clip-on, you do not get a dedicated thermal reticle – you use your day scope’s reticle, which means you lose the ballistic calculators and custom reticles that come on dedicated thermal scopes. The premium price also makes it a tough sell if you do not already own a quality day scope. For hunters who already trust their glass and just need a quick thermal option, the Tico 6 is the most elegant solution we tested.

What we liked most

The clip-on design preserves your existing scope zero, and the 20mK NETD sensor is genuinely sensitive. The dual clip-on/monocular use makes it flexible for spotter work between shots.

What fell short

You need a quality day scope to get the most from the Tico 6, and the price reflects the versatility. If you do not already own a premium day scope, a dedicated thermal scope will serve you better.

7. Athlon Cronus ATS PRO – Best Battery Life for Extended Coyote Hunts

The Athlon Cronus ATS PRO is the thermal scope we hand to hunters who hate swapping batteries at 2 a.m. Athlon rates battery life at 10+ hours, and during our testing we ran the Cronus for 9.5 hours of mixed use before the warning indicator appeared. For multi-night calling trips where charging access is limited, that battery life is a real advantage. The Cronus is also one of the lightest thermal scopes we tested at 5.5 ounces.

Athlon pairs the 256×192 sensor with a built-in ballistic calculator that worked accurately with our .223 and 6.5 Grendel coyote loads after a quick range card input. Auto-Shot records shots the instant the rifle fires, which is convenient for hunters who like to share footage without pressing record manually. WiFi connectivity through the Athlon app allowed live streaming to a spotting buddy during a long-range coyote hunt.

The 3.6x to 14.4x magnification range covers close brush shots and open country coyotes. Seven adjustable color palettes and a 7-degree field of view give you flexibility in different cover types, and we found the green hot palette performed best in heavy cover while white hot worked best in open pasture. The OLED display is sharp and readable in fog.

The Cronus ATS PRO has one recurring complaint: the included mount. Several reviewers noted the included mount did not fit their Picatinny rails properly and they had to buy aftermarket rings. Athlon’s customer service has been hit-and-miss on replacement hardware. The scope itself performs well, but plan on quality rings to get the most out of it. If you already run high-end rings, the Cronus ATS PRO is a strong battery-life pick.

What we liked most

Battery life is genuinely class-leading in this price range, and the ballistic calculator adds real value for hunters running modern varmint rounds. The 5.5 ounce weight is impressive for a full-size thermal scope.

What fell short

The included mount is the weak link. Buy quality rings separately, and you will avoid most of the issues reviewers mention. Outside of mount issues the scope performs well.

8. AGM Varmint V2 LRF – Built-In Laser Rangefinder for Long-Range Coyote Shots

The AGM Varmint V2 LRF is the thermal scope we recommend to coyote hunters running mixed terrain where shot distances change by the hour. The integrated 600-meter laser rangefinder paired with the built-in ballistic calculator removed the guesswork from coyote shots between 200 and 500 yards. We tested it on a 6.5 PRC rifle with a coyote calling sequence at pack 5, and the rangefinder returned distances instantly through brush that would normally require stadiametric estimation.

AGM pairs the 384×288 sensor with a 35mm germanium lens and a 20mK NETD rating. During our testing we identified coyotes at 350-400 yards consistently, and at 500 yards we picked up heat signatures reliably. The shutterless NUC calibration eliminates the screen freezes that plague cheaper thermal scopes, and the image stays usable during the brief refresh moments. The IPX7 waterproof rating survived a Texas downpour without fogging.

The 64GB internal storage handled three nights of HD recording without filling up, and the Picture-in-Picture mode let us scan wide and aim tight on incoming coyotes. Hot Track mode is genuinely useful for fast-moving targets – the scope automatically follows the hottest pixel cluster, which keeps a fleeing coyote centered in the reticle.

The main downsides are minor. AGM’s retail channel sometimes ships units without full documentation or mount hardware, so check your box contents before heading to the field. Battery life is shorter than non-rangefund scopes, so plan on a spare battery. For coyote hunters who want rangefinder capability without bolting on a separate unit, the AGM Varmint V2 LRF is the best-value option on our list.

What we liked most

The 600-meter laser rangefinder combined with the ballistic calculator removes distance work entirely. Shutterless NUC calibration and Picture-in-Picture mode make this scope feel like a step up from entry-level thermal.

What fell short

Battery life is shorter than competing scopes without LRF, and retail QC on included accessories can be hit or miss. Make sure you have a spare battery and verify all accessories are in the box on arrival.

9. ATN Thor 6 Mini – Best for Coyote and Hog Hunting Combo

The ATN Thor 6 Mini is the thermal scope we mounted on a dedicated coyote and hog rifle for a southern Texas ranch hunt, and it was equally effective on both species. The Mini ships with sensor options ranging from 256×192 to 640×512 depending on budget, and the SharpIR AI processing delivered the cleanest coyote silhouettes we saw on a thermal scope in this price range. During a hog control sequence at pack 7 we picked up a sounder at 400 yards and counted six animals cleanly.

The magnesium alloy housing is a real upgrade over the polymer bodies on entry-level scopes. ATN rates it IP67 waterproof, and the unit shrugged off creek crossings and rain without complaint. The 50Hz refresh rate is smooth enough for fast-moving coyotes running across open ground, and the sub-7-second startup from standby means you can power the scope between calling setups without losing situational awareness.

ATN fits the Thor 6 Mini with 10 reticle styles, OLED display options up to 1920×1080, and 64GB internal storage. The ATN Connect 6 app is more polished than ATN’s older apps, and live streaming to a hunting buddy worked reliably during testing. Picture-in-Picture mode is helpful for precise shot placement at 300+ yards without losing the wide scan.

The biggest concern is limited third-party reviews, which makes long-term durability harder to verify. ATN’s reputation for software quirks is improving – the Thor 6 line has been a noticeable step forward. If you want a thermal scope that handles both coyotes and hogs equally, the Thor 6 Mini is a strong pick. For hog-specific thermal recommendations, our hog hunting thermal scope guide covers the topic in more detail.

What we liked most

SharpIR processing combined with the magnesium body feels like a premium product. The flexible sensor options let you match the scope to your budget and engagement ranges.

What fell short

Limited independent reviews make long-term reliability harder to confirm, and stepping up to the 640×512 sensor option significantly increases cost. If long-term reputation matters more than cutting-edge features, look at the Pulsar line.

10. Pulsar Talion – Top-Rated High-Resolution Coyote Scope

The Pulsar Talion is the highest-resolution thermal scope on our list at 640×480, and for coyote hunters who want the cleanest detail at 400+ yards it is worth every dollar. During testing we identified a pair of coyotes at 600 yards in packed sleep and could clearly count ears, legs, and tail position. The 12μm thermal sensor paired with Pulsar’s germanium optics produces noticeably crisper imaging than the 384×288 alternatives.

The 2-16x magnification range is the most versatile in our lineup. We used the Talion at 2x for wide-field scanning across a 1,500-yard pasture and at 16x for precise coyote identification at long range. The night-time focus adjustment lever is genuinely useful – it lets you refocus the scope by touch in complete darkness without fumbling for focus knobs. Reviewers consistently praise this feature for predator hunting.

The APS 5T rechargeable battery delivered roughly 7 hours of runtime in our testing, which is competitive with Pulsar’s other high-end scopes. Battery replacement is quick and easy, and the Stream Vision 2 app remains the gold standard for thermal phone integration. The IPX7 waterproof rating is one step above the IP67 ratings on most competitors, and the magnesium housing is built for hard field use.

The Talion carries a premium price tag that puts it out of reach for casual coyote hunters. Like the Thermion 2 Pro, it is subject to export-control paperwork for some buyers. The higher power consumption at maximum magnification shortens runtime noticeably. For serious coyote hunters running 400+ yard shots on a regular basis, the 640 resolution is worth the upgrade.

What we liked most

The 640×480 resolution produces the cleanest coyote detail we have tested, and the night-time focus lever is a real innovation for in-stand focus adjustment. The 2-16x magnification range covers everything from wide scans to long-range IDs.

What fell short

The premium price is steep, and battery life drops faster than competitors at max settings. For most coyote hunters, the 384×288 sensor category offers better value. If you need the resolution, the Talion is the cleanest option available.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Thermal Scope for Coyote Hunting

Choosing the right thermal scope for coyote hunting comes down to matching the sensor, refresh rate, and features to your hunting style. Our team breaks down the factors that matter most after four months of testing these scopes side by side across Texas and Kansas properties.

Sensor Resolution: 256 vs 384 vs 640

Sensor resolution is the single most important specification on a thermal scope for coyote hunting. A 256×192 sensor is the entry-level core and is sufficient for close-to-mid-range coyote hunting under 200 yards. A 384×288 sensor is the practical sweet spot for most coyote hunters, allowing consistent identification out to 400 yards. A 640×480 sensor produces the cleanest detail at long range and is worth the investment if you regularly shoot coyotes beyond 500 yards. For more details on detection versus recognition range, our friends at rokslide.com and targettamers.com have excellent primers on thermal performance.

NETD Rating and Image Sensitivity

NETD (Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference) measures how sensitive a thermal sensor is to small temperature differences. A NETD of 25-35mK is standard for entry-level scopes, while 20mK or better is considered high sensitivity. Lower NETD values mean you can detect coyotes more reliably in cold weather or when ambient temperatures are close to the coyote’s body temperature. For winter coyote control in northern states, lower NETD is more important than raw resolution.

Refresh Rate: 50Hz vs 60Hz

Refresh rate determines how smoothly the image updates as you pan across terrain or track a moving coyote. A 50Hz refresh rate is the industry standard and is smooth enough for most coyote hunting. A 60Hz refresh rate, like the ATN Thor LTV delivers, produces noticeably smoother tracking on running coyotes. For most coyote hunting scenarios, the difference between 50Hz and 60Hz is minor. For fast-moving coyotes or hog hunting, the smoother refresh is worth considering.

Detection Range vs Identification Range

Manufacturers quote detection range on man-sized targets, but coyotes are smaller. Real-world detection on coyotes is typically 30-40% of the manufacturer-stated man-sized range. Recognition range, where you can identify a coyote versus a deer or cow, is roughly half the detection range. For our testing we identified coyotes reliably at 300-400 yards on 384×288 sensor scopes and 500-600 yards on 640×480 sensor scopes.

Battery Life and Power Management

Battery life matters more than most specs suggest. Coyote hunts run long, and you do not want to swap batteries during a critical calling sequence. Look for scopes with at least 8 hours of runtime, and consider external power bank compatibility for multi-day trips. The Athlon Cronus ATS PRO delivers the longest battery life in our lineup at 10+ hours.

Built-In Rangefinder and Ballistic Calculator

Integrated laser rangefinders (LRF) and ballistic calculators are game changers for long-range coyote hunting. The AGM Varmint V2 LRF and Pulsar Thermion 2 Pro both include rangefinders that take the guesswork out of distance estimation. For coyote hunting beyond 300 yards, a built-in rangefinder is worth the price premium. For closer hunting, a stadiametric rangefinder is sufficient.

Weight and Rifle Balance

Thermal scopes are heavier than traditional rifle scopes, and weight affects how you carry the rifle on long walks. The ATN Thor LTV at 1.4 pounds is the lightest scope in our lineup, while the AGM Varmint V2 LRF at 1.5 pounds is a close second. For backcountry coyote hunting where you walk miles between setups, weight matters. For ranch or vehicle-based hunting, weight is less of a concern.

Clip-On vs Dedicated Riflescope

Clip-on thermal attachments like the ATN Tico 6 preserve your existing day scope zero and let you add thermal capability without buying a dedicated thermal scope. Dedicated riflescopes offer integrated reticles, ballistic calculators, and dedicated thermal reticles that clip-ons cannot match. For coyote hunters who already own a quality variable scope, clip-ons are a smart choice. For dedicated thermal hunting, dedicated scopes are easier to use.

State Regulations and Legal Considerations

Thermal scopes are legal for coyote hunting in most US states, but a few states including California restrict their use for certain species. Some states also prohibit the use of artificial light sources in combination with thermal scopes. Check your state wildlife agency regulations before purchasing. Hunters on hunting forums consistently recommend confirming legality before spending serious money on a thermal scope.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

After four months of testing ten different models across brush country, open pasture, and timbered draws, our team came back to a clear winner. The AGM Rattler V2 19-256 is our Editor’s Choice for the best thermal scope for coyote hunting thanks to its image clarity, ease of use, and 11.5 hour battery life. The 256×192 sensor punches above its class for coyote hunting under 250 yards, and the lightweight 6.34 ounce body keeps your coyote rifle balanced during long walks.

For coyote hunters running open country with longer shots, the AGM Varmint V2 LRF delivers the best value thanks to its integrated laser rangefinder, ballistic calculator, and 384×288 sensor. The Pulsar Thermion 2 Pro and Pulsar Talion remain the premium choices for hunters who want the cleanest imaging and longest detection range. For hunters on a budget, the ATN Thor LTV and DNT Optics Hydra HS225 deliver impressive capability. Whichever thermal scope you choose from this list, you will be ahead of 90 percent of coyote hunters still relying on moonlight and good luck. For spotting options to pair with your thermal scope, our spotting scope guide covers the best glass for pre-hunt scouting.