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Flir Scout TK Review – Entry Level Thermal Vision Monocular 

 November 18, 2017

By  Randy Angwin

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Last updated on September 17, 2022

FLIR lets us see the world in a better light through their thermal devices. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, night time hunter, or you want something fun to do over the weekend, one of their Scout Thermal scanners is a perfect choice.

The FLIR Scout Series consists of some of the best outdoor thermal scanners. These devices are all lightweight and built to withstand use in outdoor environments. The newest entry in this line is the FLIR Scout TK. It is a handheld thermal scanner that is perfect for spotting or tracking animals. Its sub $600 price point is very attractive as well for buyers on a budget or those looking for their first thermal device. Continue reading our FLIR Scout TK review to find out if it has all the features needed for your next adventure.

FLIR Scout TK Overview

The FLIR Scout TK is easy to use and is small enough to fit into almost any pocket for easy transport. It gives you a view of wildlife, hikers, and other things you may encounter on the trail no matter how dark it may be. The Scout TK uses thermal  technology which consists of advanced sensors (microbolometers) to detect heat differences of objects/animals surfaces and create an image based off this information. Unlike night vision which requires at least some ambient light; thermal imagers such as the Scout TK can work in complete darkness.

Thermal Sensor

FLIR Scout TK thermal sensor

This is a handheld thermal vision monocular. The Scout TK uses a 160x120 VOx Microbolometer. This is an uncooled thermal sensor which contributes to the lightweight properties of this device. This thermal imaging monocular does not have the highest resolution but for an entry level monocular the quality is decent. You can also record videos in addition to still images. The refresh rate of the Scout TK is only 9 frames per second so tracking quick moving animals will be difficult.

With the Flir Scout, you can see objects in total darkness allowing you to be aware of your surroundings. This pocket sizes thermal camera has a identification range of 100 yards; meaning you can identify or recognize targets up to 100 yards away. It is pretty useful when you don’t want to get too close to an animal you’ve been tracking, or when using it for personal security at night.

Flir SCOUT Tk thermal image sample

Display 

Flir Scout TK thermal sample

Explore even more as you get to see high-quality images on the FLIR Scout TK. Using FLIR’s proprietary Digital Detail Enhancement, this thermal vision monocular is capable of producing decent pictures. You can detect and tell what’s on the screen, thanks to the 640x480 LCD display. Every image has details and great contrast to help you see the difference between your target and the background. 

This device also offers a good field of view at 20x16 degrees. 

User Interface

The FLIR Scout monocular uses four buttons to control the device. Pressing the power button will start the device in less than five seconds. It can capture images and even record video. A short press on the image-capture button takes brilliant pictures while a long press captures video.

Color Palettes

The device allows you to explore different color palettes from white to Black Hot, Ista Alert, Graded fire, Lava, Iron, Rainbow, and more. This gives you a broad preference of colors to help in modifying the image or video according to your liking. 

The device has a USB port which allows for transfer of videos and images to a computer via included USB cable. 

Construction & Design

FLIR Scout TK button layout

This is the lightest of the Flir thermal monoculars, weighing in at around 6 ounces. It can go in your pocket or hang nicely on your neck using the included lanyard. It is designed for one-hand use making it possible for anyone to handle the device with ease.

Even for a small device, it is surprising how much abuse it can handle. For one, the thermal vision scanner has an IP67 waterproof rating. This means it is submersible to a depth of 1 meter for 30 minutes with no water damage. The device can handle rough terrain replete with dust and fog. 

The Scout TK can also withstand a drop of 2 meters and operates in temperatures from -4° to 104° F.  It can be stored in temperatures from -40° to 140°F, meaning it does not need any special care during storage.
Flir scout tk compast size

Battery Life 

You’ll always want to consider the operating time of a thermal monocular before you put your money into it. The Scout TK uses a rechargeable Lithium-Ion Cell that provides up to five hours of operating time. This is enough time to for almost all outdoor enthusiasts.

Warranty 

Scout TK also enjoys the 2-10 years warranty offered on all FLIR thermal devices. The parts and craftsmanship are covered for two years while the detector is covered for ten years.

Best Uses of the Scout TK 

  • Hunting - The Scout TK can be an indispensable aid for users venturing through the darkness. It helps to detect animals that easily camouflage themselves within the environment. You can spot an animal hiding in thick vegetation making it easy to identify.
  • Outdoor Adventures - Apart from hunting, the FLIR Scout is a useful tool for backpacking, watching, wildlife, and exploring the outdoors. It is a compact, pocket sized thermal vision monocular that can be part of your gear when in unfamiliar environments. It allows you to be aware of your surroundings so that you can follow the right hiking trail and always keep a safe distance from animals.

FLIR Scout TK vs. FLIR Ocean Scout 

The FLIR Ocean Scout is a marine thermal handheld camera. It is rugged and weatherproofed to withstand marine elements like mist, fog, and water intrusion.  This thermal camera is designed to help you see landmarks, vessels, floating debris, etc. so that you can navigate safely. If you are part of the coast guard or out on the water often at night this device will come in handy during as it can detect heat signatures of anyone or anything in the water.

When compared to the Scout TK, the Ocean Scout TK is a different color, and it operates using three buttons. You can choose from three models regarding the resolution you’d like on the Ocean Scout. The sensor display options include; 240x180, 336x256, and 640x512 pixels. It has three color identifying palettes for fast identification of animals or people in the water.

FLIR Ocean Scout can detect man up to 1150ft, 1800ft, or 3740ft. It can also detect a small boat up to 2940ft, 5085ft, or 9842ft. Ocean Scout weighs double the FLIR Scout at 12 ounces. It is an overall excellent thermal vision monocular for marine use.

FLIR Scout TK vs. FLIR Scout III 

The Scout III is in three models starting with a detector from 240x180 VOx Microbolometer to 336x256 to 640x512 VOx Microbolometer. Scout III can detect heat signatures of people and animals up to 550 yards away. Images are displayed on a 640x480 pixel LCD just like in the Scout TK. It provides crisp, clear pictures with better contrast than regular night vision devices that depend on ambient light.

FLIR Scout III has a simple but a more advanced user menu. The four buttons can power the device, adjust brightness, zoom, and change the palettes. Scout III has three color choices, unlike the FLIR Scout TK which has nine. 

Conclusion

The FLIR Scout TK opens our eyes to the infrared spectrum. It offers a rare experience that can only be seen with the help of a thermal imaging device. From hunting and backpacking to home security and utility inspection, the FLIR Scout is built to be used in many different applications.

The FLIR Scout TK is a niche product and a worthy investment. If you are looking for an entry level thermal monocular or are on a tight budget you cannot go wrong with the Scout TK. 

About the author 

Randy Angwin

Randy Angwin holds a master of science degree from University of Florida. He is an expert in infrared and night vision technology. His knowledge helps us staying on top of the latest trends in the thermal industry. When not working, Randy likes to hunt and spend time with his two German shepherds.

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