The Best Thermal Rifle Scopes UK 2026
Thermal rifle scopes are an important tool for pest control, deer management and night shooting.
These scopes have seen big improvements in sensor sensitivity, image processing and battery life. What used to be specialist, expensive equipment is now available across a much wider range of budgets, so choosing the right model is more important than ever.
In this Best Thermal Rifle Scopes UK 2026 guide, we compare the models that genuinely matter for real UK shooting conditions. That means damp winter nights, mixed farmland and woodland, realistic engagement distances and long sessions in the field.
Best Overall Thermal Rifle Scope
HIKMicro Stellar 3.0 SQ50L (640×512)
The HIKMicro Stellar 3.0 SQ50L is the most complete thermal riflescope on the market and sets the benchmark for what most UK shooters should be aiming for in 2026.
It combines a high-resolution sensor with extremely high sensitivity and a refined, traditional riflescope format that works well on a wide range of rifles.
What separates the Stellar from many competitors is how consistently it performs when conditions are poor. Flat temperature environments, light rain or mist can expose weaknesses in lesser thermals, but the Stellar’s low NETD sensor and image processing keep detail and contrast intact.
The built-in laser rangefinder and ballistic tools are well-judged, genuinely useful features that do not overcomplicate the scope.
Key specifications (UK)
- Price: £ 3,599.00
- Sensor: 640×512 @12µm
- NETD: <15mK
- Lens: 50mm F1.0
- Detection range: Up to 2,600m
- Display: 2560×2560 OLED, 1.03-inch
- LRF: Built-in, up to 1,000m with ballistic calculation
- Battery: Internal rechargeable + external battery
- Battery life: Up to 9 hours
- Shock resistance: Up to 1000g / 0.4ms
Pros
Excellent real-world image clarity, strong identification confidence at sensible distances, premium display quality and a traditional scope feel that many UK shooters prefer.
Cons
Offers more performance and features than many short-range or occasional UK shooters will realistically need.
Best for Hunting
HIKMicro Stellar 3.0 SQ50L (640×512)
The same qualities that make the Stellar the best overall thermal riflescope also make it the standout option for UK hunting.
Why it suits hunting in particular
- Strong identification clarity in mixed terrain and poor weather
- Reliable rangefinding for ethical shot placement
- Familiar riflescope ergonomics for longer sessions
Best for Precision Features and Long-Range
Nocpix ACE H50R (640×512)
The Nocpix ACE H50R is aimed at shooters who prioritise precision and advanced features, pairing a 640×512 sensor with a fast 60Hz refresh rate and long-range laser rangefinder.
Key specifications (UK)
- Price: £ 3,579.00
- Sensor: 640×512 @12µm (Vox)
- NETD: ≤15mK
- Frame rate: 60Hz
- Lens: 50mm F0.9
- Detection range: Up to 2,600m
- Magnification: 3×–24×
- Display: 2560×2560 AMOLED
- LRF: Built-in, up to 1,200m
- Ballistic calculation: Yes
- Battery: Built-in 4000mAh + replaceable 18650
- Battery life: Up to 7 hours
- Storage: 64GB
- Weather rating: IP67
- Weight: 1,120g
Pros
Feature-rich, smooth image, excellent ranging capability and strong recording tools.
Cons
Heavier than rivals and shorter continuous runtime.
Best Budget Thermal Scope
Nocpix BOLT P25R (256×192)
The Nocpix BOLT P25R proves that usable thermal does not have to cost thousands and is well suited to close-to-mid-range UK pest control.
Key specifications (UK)
- Price: £ 899.00
- Sensor: 256×192
- LRF: Periscope-type, up to 1,200m
- Ballistic calculation: Yes
- Battery: Dual built-in + replaceable 18650
- Mount: 30mm
- Storage: 64GB
Best Compact Thermal Scope
Pixfra Pegasus P435 Pro (384×288)
The Pixfra Pegasus P435 Pro offers an excellent balance of size, performance and battery life, making it ideal for longer sessions.
Thermal Rifle Scopes FAQs
Are thermal rifle scopes legal in the UK?
Yes, provided they are used in line with firearms law and land permissions.
Can thermal rifle scopes be used during the day?
Yes, although contrast can be lower in warm or sunlit conditions.
What’s the difference between detection range and identification range?
Detection is spotting a heat source; identification is confidently knowing what it is.
Methodology
This shortlist focuses on real UK shooting conditions, prioritising image clarity, reliability, usability, battery life and long-term value.
The guide was curated by Tom Butler, who has over 25 years of hands-on experience at Uttings working with optics and field sports equipment.
Prices are correct as of January 2026 and reviewed annually.