Why Optics Matter in Predator Hunting
Predators rely heavily on vision and speed—your optics need to outperform them. Good glass helps you:
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Identify approaching predators quickly at long range
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Track fast-moving coyotes closing the distance
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Extend shooting light
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Spot movement in brush or sage flats
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Make ethical, precise shots in varied terrain
Because predators are most active during low-light periods, optical clarity at dawn, dusk, and nighttime is crucial.
Types of Optics for Predator Hunting
1. Traditional Day Scopes
A high-quality day optic is still the go-to for many hunters, especially in states with daylight-only regulations.
What to Look For:
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Magnification: 3–9x or 4–12x is ideal for most setups.
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Objective Lens: 40–50mm for balanced light transmission.
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Reticle: Simple duplex or illuminated reticles that don’t clutter your sight picture.
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Durability: Waterproof, fog-proof, shockproof construction.
Day scopes work especially well for wide-open Western calling stands or farm-country setups where visibility is high.
2. Low-Light & Illuminated Scopes
Predators move at dawn and dusk, so enhanced low-light performance is a major advantage.
Key Features:
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High-quality glass with excellent twilight transmission
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Illuminated reticles with adjustable brightness
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Multi-coated lenses to reduce glare
These scopes help you pick out fur and movement when light is scarce.
3. Night Vision Optics
Night vision is popular for states that allow nighttime predator hunting. It amplifies existing light to create a clear image in the dark.
Pros:
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Quiet operation
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Accurate ranging at moderate distances
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Affordable compared to thermal
Cons:
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Requires ambient light or IR illuminators
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Less effective in fog or heavy snow
Night vision is ideal for hunters who target coyotes under moonlight or open fields.
4. Thermal Optics
Thermal scopes and handheld scanners detect heat signatures, giving you unmatched detection capability.
Advantages:
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Works in complete darkness
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Picks up predators through grass, brush, and shadows
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Excellent for scanning large areas quickly
Considerations:
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Typically more expensive
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Image detail varies by model and sensor quality
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Requires practice to interpret movement and size
If you hunt heavily pressured coyotes or operate in large night-hunting states, thermal is often the best tool available.
5. Binoculars for Predator Spotting
Whether day or night hunting, a reliable pair of binoculars helps you locate predators before they commit.
Look For:
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8x or 10x magnification
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Good low-light performance
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Comfortable eye relief
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Lightweight design for long sits
Thermal handhelds can also serve as scanning optics at night.
Key Features to Consider When Buying Predator Optics
Magnification Range
Predator encounters vary widely—from 20-yard timber shots to 300-yard field crosses. A versatile zoom range like 3–9x, 4–12x, or 2.5–15x offers flexibility without overcomplicating your sight picture.
Light Transmission
High-quality coatings and glass elements help maintain clarity during peak predator movement hours.
Reticle Type
Choose reticles that allow fast target acquisition:
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Duplex
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BDC (for ranged setups)
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Illuminated center dots
Avoid overly complex tactical reticles unless you’re shooting long range consistently.
Durability & Weather Protection
Cold, snow, and heavy moisture are common in predator seasons. Waterproof, nitrogen-purged optics keep performance consistent.
Weight & Balance
Lightweight setups are ideal for run-and-gun calling sequences or long hikes between stands.
Battery Life (Night Vision & Thermal)
Long runtimes help you stay effective through extended night hunts.
Best Optics by Predator Hunting Style
Open Country Coyote Calling
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4–12x or 3–15x day scope
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Thermal scanner for spotting
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Rugged bipod or shooting sticks
Timbered Bobcat Hunts
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1–6x or 2–7x low-power scope
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Lightweight binoculars
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Wide field of view for close encounters
Night Hunts
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Thermal rifle scope for shooting
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Thermal handheld or night-vision scanner
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Adjustable IR illuminator (if using night vision)
Mixed Terrain / All-Around Use
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3–9x or 4–12x illuminated scope
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Binoculars or compact thermal viewer
Budget Considerations
Optics vary widely in price. A simple guideline:
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Entry Level: Good for daytime coyote hunters in moderate terrain.
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Mid-Range: Great balance of glass quality and durability.
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High-End: Best for night hunters, thermal users, and long-range setups.
Avoid extremely cheap optics—they often fail in low light, where predator hunting shines.
Accessories That Improve Your Setup
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Shooting sticks or tripods for stable shots
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Scope covers to protect lenses from dust and snow
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Lens cloth & anti-fog wipes
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Quick-attach mounts for switching between night and day optics
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Extra batteries for thermal and night vision
These small investments can significantly boost your effectiveness.
Planning Your Next Predator Hunt Through Find A Hunt
Whether you’re chasing coyotes in the wide-open Plains, calling bobcats in brushy draws, or targeting foxes at night, the right outfitter makes a difference. When you book through Find A Hunt, you gain:
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Access to vetted predator hunting outfitters
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Transparent hunt details and terrain descriptions
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Options for both day and night hunts
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Confidence knowing you’re comparing trustworthy operations
Browse predator hunting opportunities and find the outfitter that matches your style and gear.
Predator Optics FAQs
Is thermal better than night vision for predator hunting?
Thermal detects animals faster and in more conditions, but night vision can offer more detail and is usually cheaper.
What magnification is best for coyotes?
A versatile 3–9x or 4–12x works for most terrain. In tight cover, 1–6x low-power optics shine.
Do I need binoculars if I’m using a scope?
Yes—binoculars or a thermal scanner help you locate predators without swinging your rifle around.
Can I use AR-style rifles with predator optics?
Absolutely. Many hunters pair LPVO scopes or thermal optics with AR-platform rifles for fast-handling setups.
Do I need an illuminated reticle?
Highly recommended for dawn, dusk, and night setups, especially with dark-furred coyotes.
If you're ready to put the right optics to work on your next hunt, explore outfitted and DIY predator hunts offered through Find A Hunt and plan your next adventure with confidence.
