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The question is asked all the time, which is better, night vision or
thermal? We will discuss the pros and cons to each, true capabilities of each,
and determining how best you will utilize these devices. As to the true answer
to this question, the answer is both.
The price, capabilities, and limitations of each can vary depending on what you need the optics to do. Before you choose between thermal imaging and night vision, you need to understand the differences in these technologies.
Thermal imaging is the ability to detect heat (both in day or night)
this can be an absolute game-changer in viewing, observation, tracking, hunting
and security applications. However, to be fair, thermal does have its
limitations. Thermal imaging utilizes a digital image of what you are looking
at (much like a camera) the quality of this image is measured in pixels. The
higher the number of pixels the clearer the image. However, when zooming in or
increasing the magnification of thermal devices, you essentially reduce the
pixel count in half with each doubling of magnification. Same as your cell
phone, as you zoom in a greater distance the quality of the image deteriorates.
Night vision on the other hand is an optical system, as you pull light
in and amplify your current situation by utilizing an image intensifier tube.
This means that night vision does not serve a purpose in daytime use. It also
means that Night Vision provides a true optical view of the image you are
looking at, same as a daytime scope would. Night Vision does require some sort
of light (moonlight, ambient light, infrared light) to provide a clear and
bright image.
In many cases, the stars and moon will provide enough light to produce
an image, but shadows can make it hard to see. Most night vision does come
equipped with an IR Illuminator, to be utilized for times when you do not have
ambient light or need a beam of infrared light to illuminate an object.
To truly determine which is better application to use in your environment,
let’s look at the below breakdown on features and specifications:
Thermal imaging detects minute differences in heat when detecting
game. Thermal scopes detect radiation and do not require any visible
light to produce an image. Thermal imaging devices can be used
equally well day and night. Animals generate heat and are warmer than their
surroundings making it possible to detect them at great distances
using thermal imaging.
Night vision relies on at least some ambient light for detection
making detection at great distances more difficult. If shooting at night the
moon and stars should provide sufficient light for a night vision scope.
In the absence of natural light, IR illuminators are used to generate light. Night Vision at times requires the
object to be moving to detect it. In scanning a field, it is possible to skip
over an animal that is bedded down with night vision, whereas thermal will
identify through brush, tall grass or is not required of movement to recognize
the heat source.
Once a live animal has been detected a hunter needs to recognize it and
identify it prior to making any shots. When using thermal, images are displayed
as black and white or various shades of color, and various colors are used to
represent temperature. Even though a live object can easily be detected using
thermal, recognizing it and identifying it as the desired game at a great
distance is more difficult. There is a significant jump in detection range and
recognition range when using thermal devices, such as, is that a dog or coyote,
is that a calf or pig bedded down.
Night vision on the other hand amplifies light and does not have much
variance between detection and recognition, as it is a true optical
visualization of the object you are looking at. Night vision is only
problematic if the game is camouflaged or is standing still. For these reasons,
Night Vision will always be superior in recognition and identification, whereas
thermal is superior in detection. Depending on range and distance in which you
are hunting, you might receive all the recognition needed out of your thermal
device. Therefore, it is best to utilize both of these technologies to their
strengths.
You can find more information about thermal imaging and night vision here:
Night Vision vs. Thermal Optics: What You Need to Know
How Does Thermal Imaging Work?
How Does Night Vision Work?
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