Quick Answer
When scanning fields with thermal optics, use slow, deliberate sweeps to cover the entire area, and focus on areas with high vegetation or water sources, which tend to attract game. Be mindful of the thermal signature of the surroundings to avoid over-reading the environment. Practice scanning at varying speeds to develop muscle memory.
Scanning Techniques
When scanning fields with thermal optics, it’s essential to develop a consistent and deliberate scanning technique. Begin with slow sweeps, covering the entire area in a grid-like pattern, and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable with the optics. Practice scanning at a pace of 1-2 seconds per scan, allowing you to cover a 100-yard by 100-yard area in about 20-30 seconds.
Environmental Considerations
When scanning fields for hogs, focus on areas with high vegetation or water sources, as these tend to attract game. Also, be mindful of the thermal signature of the surroundings, such as heat signatures from animals, vehicles, or buildings. To avoid over-reading the environment, practice scanning at varying speeds and distances to develop your ability to distinguish between animal and environmental signatures.
Scanning for Multiple Targets
When scanning fields with thermal optics, it’s not uncommon to encounter multiple targets in a single scan. To effectively scan for multiple targets, use a technique called “sweep-then-zoom.” First, sweep the area at a slow pace to cover the entire area, and then zoom in on any detected targets to gather more information. This technique allows you to quickly and efficiently scan large areas for multiple targets.
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