Choosing between permanent thermal goggles or daytime optics that can be enhanced with a clip-on thermal module?
In the world of hunting optics, two categories have emerged in recent years: Thermal Weapon Sights (TWS) and Thermal Clip-On Sights (TCS). These devices, designed to enhance visibility in low-light conditions, have gained popularity among hunters in the last decade.
The Thunder 3.0 and Stellar 3.0, both from HIKMicro, are representative examples of these two categories.
The Thunder 3.0 is a thermal clip-on sight, offering a versatile solution for hunters. It can function as a portable observation device when not mounted, and it shares the same 30mm tube mounting interfaces as many other thermal imaging sights. This allows for the use of standard Picatinny bases and 30mm rings for mounting on the weapon. The Thunder's greatest flexibility lies in its ability to be used with a pre-mounted and zeroed daytime scope.
On the other hand, the Stellar 3.0 is a dedicated thermal weapon sight. Offering the best precision and maximum shooting distance, it is favoured for its high sensor resolution in high-end models. The Stellar 3.0 boasts a resolution of 1280x1024, double that of the Thunder 3.0's 640x480.
While both devices offer excellent thermal imaging capabilities, they each have their drawbacks. Thermal clip-on sights, when mounted, add length and weight to the front of the optic, potentially unbalancing the weapon towards the muzzle and increasing overall bulk. The overall quality of the observed thermal image can vary greatly with thermal clip-on sights.
Dedicated thermal sighting optics, such as the Stellar 3.0, offer the best overall optical performance, as they do not rely on additional external optics. However, they are typically more expensive and require a dedicated mount.
The choice between thermal clip-on sights and dedicated TWS depends on hunting style and type, as well as regulatory and legal perspectives on the use of thermal or night vision optics mounted on weapons. In some countries, such as Romania, night vision or thermal is entirely illegal. In Germany, the use and possession of a thermal scope mounted on a weapon is severely prohibited for civilians, while portable thermal or night vision (monoculars and observation binoculars) is generally allowed. Within the EU, the use of thermal or night vision devices mounted on weapons varies by country; some allow them generally for hunting, while others restrict or forbid their use except for specific game species or hunting methods. However, detailed, country-specific legal distinctions are not provided in the search results. The export of such electronic image enhancement devices outside the EU is prohibited.
When hunting in other EU countries, it's crucial to check local laws and export regulations in advance. Even in countries where using thermal imagers or Clip-Ons is legal, their use may be limited to certain types of game or hunting methods.
With the Thunder 3.0, the best performance is obtained from a base magnification of 2.5x to a maximum of 8x. The overall quality of the observed thermal image can vary greatly with thermal clip-on sights.
Most thermal imaging sights today are ergonomic, look, and ease of use like traditional daytime scopes. This means that hunters can easily adapt to using these devices, even in low-light conditions.
In conclusion, both the Thunder 3.0 and Stellar 3.0 offer unique advantages and disadvantages. The choice between the two depends on individual needs, hunting style, and legal considerations.
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