Knowing what you are using it for (Coyotes, hogs, etc) and how you hunt (calling, spot and stalk, etc) and knowing the type of terrain are all factors that can help along with budget. However, here are answers based on the typical setups for most PM members.
Originally Posted By: KrockusI sent night goggles a message last week and heard nothing back yet. I wanted to know about the beast also if clip on is the way to go or not? Do I still use my power zoom in my scope and what will it do to image at higher settings.Sorry for the slow response. Tom Austin, Programs Director monitors the emails and he is in CO filming some coyote hunts for FoxPro. I will answer your questions, but feel free to call me direct if you would like (701) 261-9017. I am a ProStaff Member for Night Goggles so can answer most questions, but I can't quote prices or put in sales.
Bering Optics makes some great thermals and night vision equipment. However, the Beast thermals are not my favorites as they are using the Flir Tau2 core. If you wish to go clip-on, go with the Hogster-C. And yes, you increase the mag of the day optic to zoom. Some people love clip-ons, but you are increasing the price by 1K and you are adding weight by now having a day optic and the clip-on. You still need a scanner if you do this, so you could use that 1K elsewhere.
Originally Posted By: KrockusNice chunk of change for me to spend on night gear..
I want something that will last at least a few years. I thought about buying an expensive thermal(well as much as I can for 4k) but I don't care to swing the rifle all the time while scanning. 4K is a lot of money but unfortunately not in the world of thermal. You won't get 2 quality thermal units, unless maybe going used. As others have said, I would probably lean towards the Hogster-R 35 with wanting to PID out to 250 yards. All Hogster models have a 4 year warranty which is one of the best warranties.
I also do not like scanning with the rifle. The Hogster can be a scanner or a weapon's sight. This is one of the many reasons it is so popular right now. You could potentially go Hogster 25 for scanning and Hogster 35 for shooting. You would end up just under 5K, but you need to leave a little budget for battery packs and a tripod if you don't have one.
Originally Posted By: KrockusShould I go thermal scan and a NV scope.. Just unsure what path to take. For sure scan with thermal. As far as shooting, I strongly prefer thermal, but you can get a digital NV scope from $500-800 (Wraith 4K, Wraith HD, ATN 4K) with an IR light.
Originally Posted By: KrockusAny sales going on now also for thermals.. I am looking to purchase ASAP once I figure out what route to g. Just about all thermal dealers are bound by MAP pricing so most dealers will list similar pricing. However, if you contact Tom at Night Goggles (909) 312-5424 X531 and tell him you are a PM member, he will get you the best deal possible. As far as purchasing ASAP, it depends on the brand and model. For instance with Pulsar right now, most of last year's models are sold out and they are introducing new models. Covid 19 has set them back, so they are very difficult to get. Bering Optics has been able to fill Night Goggles orders fairly quickly, so they are again a good option if you want something soon.