How to Choose a Thermal for Deer
There's plenty of choice when it comes to deer. They're big, they don't move around much, and you can usually get in close. That opens up a lot of options. Here's what to think about.
Scopes
Under 75 metres, a 25Hz scope will do. The image might not look perfect, but you're shooting minute of deer. Don't expect head or neck shots with one, but engine room shots are easy. Any 25mm 50Hz scope will also handle engine room shots under 100 metres.
If you want neck shots, start with a 35mm lens. That gives you a bit more magnification and lets you neck shoot out to about 80 metres. From there, any magnification you add just makes the job easier.
We prefer a 640 sensor for deer under 150 metres, and a 384 with at least 3.5x magnification over 150 metres. The 640 gives you a nice wide view up close, so it's easier to keep track of a deer when it starts to run. It also makes follow-up shots on a mob easier.
Thick bush or open country
Monoculars
- Thick bush: a 13mm lens at minimum. You get a wide view, which is great for picking up heat in thick bush out to about 100 metres.
- Open country: 25mm minimum, which still gives a nice wide view. Deer are a big heat source, so you'll detect them well over 500 metres and identify them at around 300 metres.
Scopes
- Thick bush: 19mm minimum for a wide view. Great for getting on big heat signatures in thick bush out to about 100 metres.
- Open country: a 25mm lens and 3x magnification at minimum is good for shots under 100 metres. A 35mm or bigger lens stretches that to 250 metres and beyond.
Check the rules first
The rules on hunting deer at night aren't the same everywhere, so check what applies in your state and on the land you're hunting. Our guide: Thermal & night vision in Australia: what's legal, state by state.
Need a hand?
Tell us where you hunt and how far you shoot, and we'll help you sort the right setup. More reading: Thermal for deer · Thermal scopes · Thermal monoculars.