For those that use or have used NV rather than Thermal ?

Ive never thought to check this out but was wondering if I am using NV rifle scope with an IR illuminator will a coyote or any other animals eyes shine like they do with a regular light when the IR light hits their eyes? Im asking bc I think I'm about to pick up a nice NV rifle scope don't want a low end thermal ill wait for prices to come down some.

Yes, many times if not every time I used a NV with illuminator, the eyes would shine just like a regular light, although not as bright. This was one trick I used when trying to spot animals with the unit, looking for the eye glow. Worked well.

thanks. I figured they would but wanted to know for sure.

1+

Keep in mind they will see the ir light source, especially if you are moving it around.
Having a IR light that you can point and leave it steady will work better cuz the critters key in on movement.

Yep, IR light behaves like regular light and you will get eye shine at night that you can see with your NV device. It is a common theme in game camera images with deer, hogs, predators, etc.

I have a nice nightvision unit for sale right now, text me 940-727-9279

All about change. I converted a spotlight into a IR by using filters. From a distance of 150yds. Most animals notice a change which would cause cautious animals to get out of town. if I could slowly lower light from long distance they sometimes wouldn't respond. But it's a risk you're gonna take. I learned to hunt really really close 50 yds or less and just not use the IR. When moon is 50% or more you are ok as long as there is no cloud cover. But I also saw less animals the fuller the moon.

The cheapest thermal is still better then the best nv, imo.

this I know. I have a lot of experience with both in the military but I don't use it enough to rationalize buying thermal at this point. I ended up with Armasight Vampire and I am very happy for what I use it on.

Awesome. I've just had too many instances where they either shy away from the glow of my IR or I can see them in the thermal scanner and just can't see them NV. Or I'm hunting in high humidity or rain both of which can render nv uselees.

I just sold my NV after learning this exact thing. NV has tatical advantages but with the quality of the thermals today able to see hairs on the backs of critters needing nv to identify is quickly going away

+1

I thought NV was pretty good, but once I went thermal I'd never look back.

Why not use both .... There are advantages to both ... Thermal on rifle and nv helmet mounted is how I roll

There are certainly advantages to both. I prefer to use Gen 3 for driving, thermal for scanning, and digital NV for shooting. I love my N-750. I can't afford the high end thermal scopes, maybe someday.

thats what i do.