Thermal scopes.. downside?

[70runner]

(j) Except as otherwise provided, while taking or attempting to take big game under the provisions of this section or Section 354 of these regulations, it is unlawful to use any device or devices which: 1) throw, cast or project an artificial light or electronically alter or intensify a light source for the purpose of visibly enhancing an animal; or 2) throw, cast or project an artificial light or electronically alter or intensify a light source for the purpose of providing a visible point of aim directly on an animal. Devices commonly referred to as "sniperscopes", night vision scopes or binoculars, or those utilizing infra-red, heat sensing

So where does the thermal scope fit? 353(j) appears to differentiate between evil "sniperscopes" and heat sensing devices, though both are prohibited to use for hunting purposes. Reference the table, thermal scopes would seem to be most logically included in the Passive IR scope category and therefore permitted as long as an IR illuminator isn't being used (and as noted earlier, provides no benefit to thermal imaging).

[Boarhuntor]

Sorry to sidetrack, but what is the difference between a sniperscope and Digital NV?

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[TKM]

Sniperscope is a phrase they pulled past Pelosis last polyp.

[Boarhuntor]

Sniperscope is a phrase they pulled past Pelosis last polyp.

but what is the difference between a sniper scope and Digital NV?
Did nanci provide the explanation?

Asking for a friend

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[Mute]

The primary difference between a "sniperscope" and NV of any kind that does not fall into that category is the use of an active IR illuminator. Unless you're buying older 1st Gen NV products, you're unlikely to be getting anything that uses active IR illumination.

[70runner]

These are under $1200... so the expense part isn't part of the equation realistically ..

They do have higher power ones, but was thinking it would be nice to have something that works at night.

It is nice to have something that works at night. No direct experience with ATN, do have experience with Pulsar thermion, specifically XM38. Has 16x mag, several palette options (white hot, black hot, etc), recording ability, link to smartphone, etc. Usable in daytime.