Indulis Burka, April 10, 2026
Medības magazine had the opportunity to test the new ThermTec IBEX335L thermal imaging scope, provided by GPSPRO. The short conclusion is that it's a convenient and functional mid-range scope that's very easy to use. While it's not designed for long-range shooting, it's ideal for Latvian conditions, ideal for short- and medium-range hunting in areas where game is present and where crops need to be protected from damage.
Middle class matrix
The ThermTec IBEX335L is designed as a versatile solution for hunters working in a variety of conditions, both in the woods and in the open. The scope uses a sensor with a resolution of 384x288 pixels and a pixel size of 12 µm. This provides detailed thermal contrast and a smooth image, even in dynamic situations. Thermal sensitivity of <18 mK allows for the detection of even very small temperature changes, allowing for earlier detection of game during a hunt. The scope features a 35 mm objective lens with a base magnification of approximately 2.7x. Digital zoom is also available from 1x to 4x. The IBEX 335L is equipped with a built-in laser rangefinder with a range of up to 1,000 m, operating synchronously with the image. Additional features include a ballistic calculator with angle compensation and automatic impact correction for long-range shooting. You can choose from several reticles and aiming profiles. This means that the same scope can be used on several types of weapons.
Convenient and intuitive control
The scope has very convenient and intuitive controls. It's easy to use even with gloves and in the dark.
The central turret is used for focusing the image. Controls can be performed without taking your eye off the scope's eyepiece.
The leftmost turret houses a multi-function button. It is used to change digital zoom, access the device's menu, and change parameters and other settings. Separate buttons on the eyepiece are used to turn the scope on and off, activate the laser rangefinder, and record video and photos.
Energy reserve and operating time
The IBEX 335L uses a replaceable, rechargeable 18650 battery. The battery provides up to six hours of continuous operation. The kit includes two batteries and a charger. The scope can also be powered by a portable battery pack.
One caveat: For most ThermTec scopes, especially premium ones, battery polarity is irrelevant, but for this scope, it is essential. This is indicated by a symbol on the battery compartment cover.
Dust and waterproof housing
The scope is made of durable aluminum alloy and is IP67 dust and water resistant. All moving parts are sealed accordingly, including the battery compartment cover. This allows for safe use in Latvia's variable weather conditions, including heavy rain and snow.
The scope's body is very compact and slightly shorter than other scopes. This translates to a lighter weight. However, this can pose challenges when mounting the scope on weapons with detachable Picatinny mounts, especially on larger caliber weapons with larger mounts. When attempting to mount the scope on a .300 Win. Mag. rifle with detachable mounts, the scope secured itself, but it couldn't be fully adjusted for comfortable aiming. A full-length mount had to be used as an adapter.
The objective lens cap, a rubber pad, also presented some challenges. When using the lowest mounts, the cap was impossible to attach. The distance between the lens and the barrel was too small. This should be taken into account when purchasing scope mounts. It's also worth noting that temperature changes can cause the space between the rubber cover and the lens to thin, making it difficult to remove.
However, these are practically the only drawbacks of the scope, which, considering the price of €1,640, can be considered minor. This isn't a premium long-range scope, but a very well-balanced, all-rounder for Latvian hunting conditions. It offers good image contrast in rain and fog.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Lightweight;
- Compact size;
- Laser rangefinder integrated into the lens barrel.
Cons:
- Difficult to remove the lens cap;
- Difficult to mount large-caliber weapons on the detachable base.
Specifications:
| Thermal sensor: | 384 x 288, 12 µm |
| NETD: | ≤18 mK |
| Lens: | 35 mm |
| Optical zoom: | 2.7x |
| Maximum detection range: | 1800 m |
| Laser rangefinder detection range: | 1000 m |
| Measurement accuracy: | ≤ ±1 m |
| Display: | 1600 x 1200 AMOLED |
| Digital zoom: | 1x to 4x |
| Built-in memory card: | 64 GB |
| Weight: | |
| Protection level: | IP67 |