A thermal scope or infrared scope is a sighting device that combines a scope and a compact thermal imaging camera.[1]​ It can be mounted on a variety of small arms, as well as some heavier weapons.[2]​.

Just like classic night vision scopes, infrared scopes can operate in complete darkness. Thermal scanning can be very useful in snowy environments since the extreme temperature difference between the snow and a heat source (such as the human body) creates a high visual contrast between the two. This makes it easier to locate any heat source by contrasting it with the lower temperature background.

Hunters frequently use thermal scopes to help detect prey, such as wild boar, coyote or rodents. The visual ability to see even in complete darkness allows the hunter to detect and be aware of possible prey, facilitating rapid and accurate capture.[3]​ The new generation of thermal weapons has sharing functions and is compatible with video sharing websites, including YouTube. The entire shooting adventure is recorded with the thermal imaging device and forwarded with a mobile phone application. The file is transferred via a Wi-Fi network and the video clips can be copied directly to a website to share the videos or stored on an SD card for later viewing on a personal computer or television.[4] New generation thermal scopes are manufactured by companies such as Flir and Pulsar, and are mainly used, like those of the previous generation, by the military and hunters.[5][6]​.

• - Night vision.

• - Thermography.

• - Thermal camera.

• - Look reflex.