Top 10 Must-Have Accessories for Thermal Hunting Predators at Night
Master the art of nighttime predator hunting with the right gear.
Thermal hunting for hogs, coyotes, and other predators at night is an exhilarating challenge that requires precision, patience, and—most importantly—the right accessories. Without the proper gear, you risk fumbling in the dark, missing your shot, or scaring off your target. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just getting started, outfitting yourself with these essential tools will make your nighttime hunts more successful and enjoyable.
Thermal Scope
The thermal scope is your nocturnal eyes, turning pitch-black nights into a hunter’s playground.
Overview
A thermal scope is an indispensable tool for nighttime hunting, allowing you to detect heat signatures from animals in complete darkness. Unlike traditional scopes, thermal scopes use infrared technology to highlight warm objects against cooler backgrounds, making it easier to spot elusive predators like hogs and coyotes. These scopes come with various features such as zoom, customizable reticles, and video recording capabilities.
Benefits
- Detects heat signatures in total darkness
- Improves accuracy and target acquisition
- Allows video recording for review or sharing
Notable Brands
- Pulsar
- FLIR
- ATN
Shop for the latest thermal scopes and upgrade your nighttime hunting experience.
Handheld Thermal Monocular
Your scouting sidekick for spotting heat signatures before they spot you.
Overview
A handheld thermal monocular is perfect for scanning the terrain to locate predators before setting up your shot. Unlike mounted scopes, monoculars are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for quick reconnaissance. They offer wide fields of view and can help you track movement without committing to a shooting position.
Benefits
- Quickly scans large areas for heat signatures
- Lightweight and portable
- Improves situational awareness
Notable Brands
- Leupold
- Seek Thermal
- Pulsar
Find the best deals on handheld thermal monoculars for your next hunt.
Tripod Shooting Rest
The unsung hero of steady, accurate nighttime shots.
Overview
A tripod shooting rest provides stability and precision, which are critical for thermal hunting in low-light conditions. These rests allow you to hold your rifle steady while keeping your thermal scope aligned with your target. Many models are adjustable for height and angle, making them versatile for uneven terrain or seated positions.
Benefits
- Improves shooting accuracy
- Reduces fatigue during long hunts
- Adjustable for various terrains
Notable Brands
- Bog DeathGrip
- Primos Trigger Stick
- Caldwell
Shop for high-quality tripod shooting rests to enhance your accuracy.
Red or Green Headlamp
Because fumbling in the dark is not a good hunting strategy.
Overview
A red or green headlamp is essential for navigating the dark without spooking your prey. These colors are less likely to alert animals compared to white light. Headlamps keep your hands free for carrying gear or handling your rifle, making them a practical choice for nighttime hunting.
Benefits
- Provides hands-free illumination
- Minimizes disturbance to wildlife
- Helps with gear management in the dark
Notable Brands
- Petzl
- Black Diamond
- Streamlight
Find the perfect red or green headlamp for your nighttime hunting needs.
Rangefinder
Know the distance, nail the shot.
Overview
A rangefinder helps you determine the exact distance to your target, which is crucial for accurate shooting, especially at night. Modern rangefinders often come with advanced features like angle compensation and ballistic data integration, ensuring you make the perfect shot even in challenging conditions.
Benefits
- Provides precise distance measurements
- Improves shot accuracy
- Compact and easy to carry
Notable Brands
- Leica
- Bushnell
- Vortex
Shop for reliable rangefinders to elevate your hunting precision.
Electronic Game Caller
Lure them in with the sounds they can’t resist.
Overview
An electronic game caller mimics the sounds of prey or distress calls to attract predators like coyotes and hogs. These devices come preloaded with a variety of calls and can be operated remotely, allowing you to set up a strategic ambush without revealing your position.
Benefits
- Attracts predators effectively
- Offers a wide range of call options
- Remote operation for stealth
Notable Brands
- FoxPro
- Primos
- Lucky Duck
Explore the best electronic game callers for your predator hunts.
Silencer/Suppressor
Keep it quiet, keep it lethal.
Overview
A silencer or suppressor reduces the noise and muzzle flash of your rifle, helping you maintain stealth during nighttime hunts. While not completely silent, these devices significantly lower the decibel level, ensuring you don’t scare off nearby predators or alert other animals in the area.
Benefits
- Reduces noise and muzzle flash
- Improves stealth
- Minimizes recoil for better control
Notable Brands
- SilencerCo
- Dead Air
- Gemtech
Find the best silencers and suppressors for your hunting rifle.
Extra Battery Packs
Because dead batteries equal dead hunts.
Overview
Thermal scopes, monoculars, and electronic callers all rely on battery power, and running out of juice in the middle of a hunt is a hunter’s nightmare. Extra battery packs ensure your gear stays operational throughout the night, no matter how long you’re out in the field.
Benefits
- Prevents gear shutdown during hunts
- Provides extended operational time
- Compact and easy to carry
Notable Brands
- Anker
- Duracell
- Goal Zero
Stock up on extra battery packs to keep your gear running all night.
Hunting Backpack
Your mobile command center for carrying all the essentials.
Overview
A hunting backpack is designed to carry all your gear while keeping it organized and easily accessible. Look for backpacks with specialized compartments for electronics, ammunition, and hydration systems. Many models also feature quiet zippers and durable materials to withstand rugged conditions.
Benefits
- Keeps gear organized and accessible
- Comfortable for extended wear
- Durable and weather-resistant
Notable Brands
- Badlands
- ALPS OutdoorZ
- Eberlestock
Shop for durable hunting backpacks to carry your gear effortlessly.
Wind Checker
The invisible enemy of every hunter, now detectable.
Overview
A wind checker helps you determine wind direction and speed, which is crucial for scent control and accurate shooting. These tools often come in compact bottles that release a fine powder or vapor, allowing you to quickly assess the wind conditions in your hunting area.
Benefits
- Improves scent control
- Enhances shooting accuracy
- Compact and easy to use
Notable Brands
- Dead Down Wind
- Hunter’s Specialties
- Primos