10 Best Monocular For Hunting 2026 in the United States

The AGM Taipan V2 thermal monocular is a strong choice for hunters needing clear vision in low or no light conditions. Its 15mm objective lens combined with a 1.5x optical and up to 12x digital zoom allows spotting animals at distances up to 750 meters, which is impressive for hunting. The 384x288 thermal sensor with a very sensitive 12-micron detector delivers sharp heat images, while the bright 1024x768 OLED display ensures you can see details clearly without lag.

It offers several color palettes to adjust image contrast depending on your environment, improving target identification. The monocular is also well-built for the outdoors with IP67 waterproofing and a sturdy rubber exterior, so it can handle rough weather and terrain. Battery life of about 6.5 hours suits extended field use, and USB-C charging adds convenience. Plus, built-in video recording and Wi-Fi connectivity to a smartphone app are handy extras for documenting your hunts.

The weight at 1.28 kilograms and size (7 x 2 x 2 inches) make it a bit heavier and bulkier compared to simpler monoculars, which might affect comfort during long carries. The field of view is relatively narrow, typical for thermal devices, so scanning large areas requires more movement. This AGM model embodies advanced thermal technology and a durable design tailored for serious hunters who want high performance and extra features, although it is somewhat larger and pricier than basic models.

The ATN BlazeTrek-319 is a thermal imaging monocular designed to help hunters detect heat signatures in low visibility conditions, such as at night or through dense foliage. Its 384x288 sensor with a 19mm lens provides a good detection range of up to 990 meters, which means you can spot animals from quite a distance. The device’s NETD rating of less than 25mK ensures a sensitive thermal image, making it easier to see subtle temperature differences. You also get multiple viewing modes with different color palettes so you can choose the one that best suits your environment or preference. It weighs about 11.2 ounces and is compact enough to carry easily in the field.

It lacks traditional magnification specs commonly seen in optical monoculars, but the thermal sensor compensates by highlighting heat sources. Other handy features include built-in video and photo recording, with storage via MicroSD card, plus Wi-Fi connectivity to control the device and view images through a smartphone app. This makes it practical for reviewing your findings or sharing them. For hunters primarily interested in optical clarity and detailed magnification, this thermal monocular might not replace a regular optical scope.

The BlazeTrek-319 is ideal for those who want advanced thermal detection to spot game in challenging environments rather than for long-range identification based on optical zoom. If you need a lightweight, easy-to-use thermal monocular with solid detection capabilities and modern digital features, the BlazeTrek-319 offers a strong option.

The AGM Global Vision Taipan V2 19-320 is a solid choice for hunters needing a reliable thermal monocular. Its 15mm objective lens and 12x digital magnification provide a good balance for spotting game at distances—up to 950 meters according to the manufacturer. The 10-degree field of view is typical for such devices, offering enough scene visibility without overwhelming detail. One key advantage is its high-resolution 320×256 thermal sensor combined with a sharp 1280×960 display, ensuring clear images even in complete darkness or thick brush.

Waterproofing with an IP67 rating means it can handle rain and dusty conditions with ease, which is important for outdoor hunting. At 3.3 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than some monoculars, so it might feel bulky during long treks. It also features 4 color palettes and tools like hotspot tracking and distance measurement, which can help identify targets more quickly. The built-in 16GB storage and Wi-Fi streaming add convenience for recording and sharing footage. Battery life is respectable at around 6 hours, with smart power-saving features.

The zoom is digital rather than optical, which may affect image sharpness when zoomed in. The rubber eyepiece suggests comfortable use. The Taipan V2 is designed for serious hunters or outdoor professionals who value advanced thermal imaging and rugged build, though casual users might find it somewhat heavy and pricey.