Hunting season is an exciting time of the year for hunters and avid wildlife enthusiasts. There are two types of vision that hunters should be aware of - thermal and infrared. Both thermal and infrared serve important purposes in the world of hunting, but which is best for hunting? It's important to know about each and their differences. In this article, we will help you determine which is best for you and how to best use it.
What Is Thermal Vision and How Is It Used in Hunting?
Thermal vision is the primary hunting tool used by tree stand hunters, and once you understand it and its applications, your hunting will improve exponentially.
Conventional night vision systems require illumination of the target area. On the other hand, thermal imaging for hunting uses temperature signals to see the target. All creatures emit these signals because of the heat they produce in their normal functions. The signals are then picked up by thermal imaging for hunting devices, which are tuned to the specific heat signatures of the animals you are hunting.
Thermal imaging infrared technology allows hunters to see their target even in total darkness and in all weather conditions. This technology can be applied in various hunting activities, such as hunting from tree stands and bush hunting.
What Is Infrared Vision and How Is It Used in Hunting?
Infrared vision is used in the night vision goggles we see in movies or video games. The technology in those special goggles gives the hunter a green-tinted point of view when he puts them on in a dark environment.
This technology can detect and collect very faint light waves in the near-infrared spectrum, which have wavelengths longer than those of visible light. These wavelengths are outside the range of human vision.
Infrared hunting cameras capitalize on the fact that these faint lights exist in most hunting environments in the form of moonlight, starlight, or distant ambient light. This technology uses a photocathode to convert these light waves into electron signals. These signals are then sent to an image intensifier tube which converts these signals into images that our eyes can process.
The green color results from a green filter screen that ensures the images have good clarity. This is because our eyes are more sensitive to green than any other color in the visible light spectrum. This technology can be applied in various hunting activities, such as bush hunting.
READ MORE： Is Thermal Imaging Monocular Better Than Night Vision Monocular?
Infrared vs Thermal Camera: Which Is Better for Hunting?
Advantages of Thermal Imaging
1. Does Not Need Light
Unlike infrared vision, hunting thermal cameras don't depend on external light sources. They can see the target even in total darkness, as you can still detect heat signals coming from it.
2. Can Cover Wider Distances
Because they don't require light, hunting thermal cameras can detect targets up to 250 meters from you. No matter how good your eyesight may be, you cannot see that far in a dark environment.
3. Can See Through Fog, Smoke, and Dust
The heat that any animal produces gives off a specific heat signature, which thermal imaging infrared devices can detect. This means you can see your target through fog, smoke, and dust - something that is impossible with infrared vision.
Advantages of Infrared Imaging
1. It Produces High-Quality Imagery
Infrared imaging is very different from thermal imaging. While the former uses heat to produce images, the latter uses light. The light produces a super sharp image of your target area.
2. Make Objects Visible to the Human Eye
Infrared imaging can help you see everything that surrounds you while hunting at night, regardless of whether it produces heat or not. This will help you avoid injuries.
3. Can Be Used in Any Imaging System
Unlike thermal imaging, infrared imaging can be used in any kind of image system, including those used for night vision. Vision goggles, for example, feature infrared hunting cameras.
Tips for Securing Your Night Vision Device
1. Follow the Instructions Manual
Night vision devices, such as infrared cameras for hunting, are very sensitive in nature. This means you have to be extra careful when handling them. You should always read and follow the manual that comes with it so that you will know how to handle it properly.
2. Avoid Sources of Bright Light
Bright light is harmful to night vision devices. This is because it will dilute the sensitivity of the device, making it difficult for you to view your target clearly. You should avoid using infrared cameras for hunting in areas with high light intensity.
3. Don't Take Apart Your Device on Your Own
You should never take apart your device or use it irresponsibly. This will only damage the device.
4. Handle the Objective Lens With Care
The objective lens is the part that collects light from the image. It is very sensitive and shouldn't be touched using your hands.
5. Be Careful of High Humidity
Humidity in the air can cause your device to fog up, making you unable to see the target clearly. You should avoid any areas with high humidity levels, as these can cause damage to your device.
6. Schedule Routinary Maintenance
Since night vision devices are very sensitive, they tend to wear out over time. This means you should schedule routine maintenance of your device from time to time to ensure that it doesn't fail you when you need it most.
7. Store the Device Properly
You should ensure that your device is stored in a cool and dry place. This will help protect it from damage caused by heat and moisture.
Mileseey Thermal and Infrared Night Vision Devices for Hunting
Mileseey TNV10 Infrared Night Vision Thermal Imaging Monocular
This rechargeable night vision device is perfect for night hunting and other activities such as sport spotting and security. Its compact design makes it portable, and it can be used at night or during the day.
As you can see, there are a lot of different night vision devices in the market. While most of them are used for hunting, others can also be used for other applications, such as surveillance.
Mileseey ACOPTEL NV30 Infrared Night Vision Monocular with Full-color HD Camera
This device is for all hunters who want to aim with more accuracy and enjoy hunting journey in darkness. It can produce amazing images that are incredibly clear and crisp. The camera has a wide full-color mode in darness, IR illumination flashlight, and video camera.
Mileseey TR256 Infrared Thermal Imager With Visible Light Camera
This powerful thermal imaging system can be used for most hunting activities, including bush hunting. It uses a visual light camera and infrared imaging to make it easier for you to take more accurate night shots. The TR256 has a wide temperature range and six color palettes. It is also a two-in-one device that features a hot spot alert.
Mileseey TR120 Infrared Thermal Imager
This device is suitable for all kinds of hunting activities, including night vision spotting and bush hunting. The TR120 has a wide temperature range of -20°C to 450°C and six color palettes.
Mileseey TR256B/E Infrared Thermal Imager
This powerful infrared camera can be used in any hunting situation. Its wide temperature range and high-resolution images make it perfect for locating animals at night and in smokey conditions.
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