Traditional optical scopes rely on visible light to function while thermal scopes detect and display heat signatures, which allows them to be used in low-light or night-time conditions.
Sighting in a thermal rifle scope is the process of aligning the barrel of the firearm with the scope, which involves adjusting the position of the reticle so that the bullet hits the point that is covered by the center of the reticle. This process ensures that the scope is properly zeroed and that the reticle is aligned with the point of impact at a specific distance, allowing the shooter to make more accurate shots.
Thermal scopes are superior for precision targeting because they use infrared heat to detect and display images of targets, rather than relying on visible light like traditional scopes. This means that thermal scopes can be used in low light or nighttime conditions, making them ideal for hunting, surveillance, and other activities that require target detection in challenging environments.
The ability of thermal scopes to detect and display heat signatures also makes them well-suited for precision targeting, as they can detect and highlight targets based on their heat levels, even in complete darkness or behind foliage. This makes it easier to aim and track targets, even in challenging conditions. Additionally, thermal scopes are also useful for hunting as they can detect the heat signatures of animals, allowing the hunter to see through foliage and other obstructions. They are only limited in extremely cold environments, but even then they can detect the faintest trace of heat.
Sighting in a thermal scope involves adjusting the windage and elevation to align the reticle with the target, similar to a traditional optical scope. This is typically done using the scope’s turrets, but some thermal scopes like the Ares Series from ThermTec have self-adjusting features that make the process quicker and easier.
The recommended distances for setting targets when sighting in a thermal scope are between 20 to 500 yards(18,28 to 457,2 meters). It is best to choose a distance that matches your intended field of use and the capabilities of your particular scope. To improve your accuracy and adaptability, it is recommended to practice with a variety of target distances and mix up the distances often, especially if you plan to use the thermal scope for hunting or firing at moving targets.
When sighting in a thermal scope, it is important to use a target that has a heat source at the aiming point. Some options for these types of targets include using batteries to power the heat source, or using heat from the sun to generate reflected thermal images for the scope. The goal is to have a clear and distinct heat source on the target, as this will make it easier to aim accurately.
The Ares Series thermal scope is designed to allow hunters to zero in on their target with just one shot, making the process more efficient and less costly. Zeroing your thermal optics or thermal scopes is important to take accurate shots at different distances. Remember that the bullet drop is affected by factors such as bullet weight, velocity, and caliber of the weapon. Your point of aim should be slightly higher than your desired point of impact. Using the same rounds for target practice and hunting will help you gain a better understanding of the scope’s sighting.
The Ares Series Thermal Scope from ThermTec has a user-friendly sight-in process, thanks to its automatic zeroing feature (one shot zero). Here’s how to sight in the Ares Series Thermal Scope:
1. Set the distance, gun type, reticle type, and color using the thermal scope’s settings.
2. Aim at the target and take a shot.
3. The reticle will automatically adjust to align with the bullet’s impact.
4. The scope is now sighted in and ready to use.
This process is quick and easy, allowing hunters to switch between guns while hunting. The only requirement is a safe place to take one shot with the scope to pick up the bullet’s impact.
Ares Series thermal scopes also offer manual zeroing. The process includes the following steps:
Freeze Function: A newly added feature for Ares Series thermal scopes, the Freeze Function allows you to manipulate the scope without losing the reticle placement on the point of aim during adjustments.
Zoom Function: The Zoom Function allows you to change the magnification by rotating the knob, which helps to improve the accuracy of zeroing.
Coordinates Setting: Adjust the coordinates (X, Y) of the reticle, and move the reticle from the original position to the bullet hole position manually.
The manual zeroing process allows you more control over the sighting process and allows you to fine-tune the zeroing of the scope. It also allows you to adjust the reticle position according to your preference and the specific characteristics of your weapon.
A key advantage of many thermal imaging scopes is the ability to store and retrieve different profiles for the scope. A profile is a set of information about your firearm and the cartridge you are shooting, including ballistics data. This can be very useful for hunters who use the same rifle but different cartridges and loads for different game animals.