Welcome to LSB. Any reason why you are wanting a NV scope? I've used both NV and thermal scopes and believe that a thermal scope works better. Nv is great for navigating and is better at target ID if you're looking to tell the difference between a spotted hog or solid color one but thermal has it beat with locating possible targets, faster follow ups and target ID has improved a lot with todays thermal technology.
That depends on which level of NV you are going to start with and the type of hunting you are doing or want to do. Gen 3 NV is excellent for hunting and if that's all you can afford, you are not handicapped, just not fully equipped. Each technology has its advantages and disadvantages. A wise person once advised me to start with a pvs14 and the parts and pieces to mount it on a weapon and a helmet. Next purchase was a thermal scanner. Those two items will allow you to be mobile or stationary which ever the situation dictates and be very deadly. When you can afford it, add a high quality thermal weapon sight. All the other pieces will augment the thermal and increase your versatility.
Not saying you got it backwards just that in my experience I like shooting with thermal.So, you're saying I got it backwards then?
Mostly that idea comes from a relative who uses a thermal monocular to locate and then his NV scope to make the shot. I've not hunted with him so I don't know exactly how he is operating but I know that he likes holding the monocular for an extended period rather than the rifle.
I hear what you're saying though regarding follow ups especially.
I appreciate all the info and advice.
Not saying you got it backwards just that in my experience I like shooting with thermal.
I started with a PVS 14 mounted to a helmet because we drive around a lot. When I spotted something I would make the stalk and when in range I would transfer the 14 to the rifle behind an EOTech and it worked well. This route you are limited to the caliber of rifle and the tube needs to have a high halo number. This will help from blowing the tube because of recoil but you are still taking a chance.
Then I got a thermal clip-on and run it if front of a day optic. This worked well but is a heavier setup than a scope. It also doesn't have the resolution that a dedicated thermal scope does. After a few years with that setup I got rid of the clip-on and went with a dedicated thermal scope and glad I did. Smaller and lighter package with a better resolution.
My opinion thermal is better for locating(scanning) and shooting, NV is better for navigation and target ID. Example is with thermal you can tell it's a dog but not the breed whereas NV you probably could. That being said the quality thermals today have no problem telling the difference between a cow and a pig.
Much appreciated!Welcome! Ignore DJ. It just took him 4 hours to watch 60 minutes... Not the brightest lightbulb but he is quite entertaining.
Thanks!Welcome!
Perfect! Love it.
In my personal experience, fieldcraft can be more valuable than advanced technology, especially at night.