Thermal Tech | September 2, 2026
Base magnification is the optical power built into the scope, while digital zoom enlarges the image after it has been captured. The former gives you a true increase in detail and a wider field of view at lower magnifications, whereas the latter can make distant targets appear larger but may sacrifice image clarity and reduce detection range.
Open fields, ridgelines and water edges favor higher base magnification because you often spot game at 800 to 1,200 yards. A 3x or 4x base lets you keep a broader scene in view while still getting enough detail to identify hogs or coyotes before they disappear. In thick timber, brush or low‑lying cover, a lower base such as 1.5x or 2x preserves a wider field of view, making it easier to track movement without constantly re‑aiming.
Hogs tend to move in groups and can be spotted at medium range, so a moderate base (2x‑3x) paired with a modest digital zoom works well. Coyotes are often solitary and can be farther away, so hunters who frequently engage at long distances may benefit from a higher base or a scope that offers clean digital zoom up to 4x without blurring the image.
A practical rule of thumb is to match your typical hunting distance to the base magnification that gives you the best field of view at that range, then use digital zoom sparingly for the occasional longer shot. Remember that digital zoom drains battery faster and can introduce lag, so if you rely on it heavily you may need extra power reserves. Choose a scope that balances optical power, field of view and battery life for the terrain you hunt most often.