NOCPIX THERMAL RIFLE SCOPES
Explore the NocPix range of thermal rifle scopes, including the ACE, BOLT and RICO 2 series. Designed for exceptional image quality, accurate target identification and dependable performance, NocPix thermal scopes combine advanced sensors with intuitive controls for demanding pest control and wildlife management.
NocPix Rifle Scopes – Complete Buying Guide
The NocPix rifle scope range covers everything from accessible dedicated thermal riflescopes to flagship 1280-resolution thermal systems and high-resolution digital day and night optics. The main families available at Bamfords are ACE, ACE 2, BOLT, RICO 2 and NITE.
The biggest decision is whether you want thermal imaging or a conventional digital image. ACE, ACE 2, BOLT and RICO 2 detect heat, making them exceptionally effective for finding animals in darkness. NITE works differently, using visible and infrared light to provide a detailed, conventional-looking image with full-colour daytime viewing.
Within the thermal ranges, the key differences are sensor resolution, thermal sensitivity, objective lens size, base magnification, field of view, mounting format and the level of rangefinding and ballistic technology included. The guide below breaks down each range and helps you choose the right NocPix scope for your requirements.
Which NocPix Scope Should I Buy?
BOLT – best-value dedicated thermal scope
BOLT is the most accessible route into the NocPix dedicated thermal riflescope range. It covers 256×192, 384×288 and 640×512 sensor options while retaining useful features including integrated laser rangefinding and ballistic calculation.
Best for: customers wanting a capable dedicated thermal scope without paying for the premium ACE or RICO 2 platforms.
ACE – established premium all-round thermal range
The original ACE family provides a broad selection of premium thermal scopes, including 384×288, 640×512 and flagship 1280×1024 models. It also includes both conventional scope-style and dedicated RM rail-mount versions on selected models.
Best for: users wanting a proven premium thermal platform with a wide choice of resolutions, lenses and mounting arrangements.
ACE 2 – latest-generation premium all-rounder
ACE 2 is the newest evolution of the traditional riflescope-style ACE platform. It introduces technologies including Ocular Zoom 2.0, R+ 2.0 image processing, LRF 2.0, Ballistic Calculation 2.0 and Dual Clarity viewing modes.
Best for: customers wanting the latest NocPix thermal technology in a familiar conventional riflescope format.
RICO 2 – premium long-range thermal performance
RICO 2 places greater emphasis on large objective lenses, premium image quality and long-range use. The range extends from the 384-resolution L42R through 640-resolution H50R and H75R models to the flagship 1280×1024 S75R.
Best for: larger fields, longer viewing distances and customers prioritising maximum thermal image performance.
NITE – digital day and night vision
NITE is fundamentally different from the thermal families. It provides a conventional digital image rather than detecting heat, allowing genuine full-colour daytime use and detailed visual identification after dark with suitable infrared illumination.
Best for: customers wanting one scope for daylight and night use with a conventional visible image.
Compare All NocPix Scope Ranges
| Range | Technology | Resolution Options | Main Strength | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOLT | Thermal | 256 / 384 / 640 | Value | Accessible dedicated thermal |
| ACE | Thermal | 384 / 640 / 1280 | Broad premium range | All-round premium use |
| ACE 2 | Thermal | 640 / 1280 | Latest technology | Premium all-round thermal |
| RICO 2 | Thermal | 384 / 640 / 1280 | Long-range performance | Large fields & distance |
| NITE | Digital day/night | 12MP / 48MP | Natural visible image | Day & night digital use |
There is no single range that is automatically best for everyone. BOLT prioritises value, ACE provides a broad established premium platform, ACE 2 adds the newest technologies, RICO 2 pushes towards long-range thermal performance, while NITE is designed for customers who want a digital rather than heat-based image.
NocPix ACE – Premium Thermal Scopes
The original ACE family remains one of the broadest NocPix thermal scope ranges, spanning multiple detector resolutions, objective lens sizes and mounting formats.
The range includes accessible 384×288 models, premium 640×512 scopes and flagship 1280×1024 configurations.
Selected ACE models are also available in RM form, using NocPix's dedicated rail-mount architecture rather than a conventional scope-ring arrangement.
Why choose ACE?
- Wide choice of models and price points
- 384, 640 and 1280 thermal options
- Traditional scope-style and RM rail-mount configurations
- Integrated LRF available on relevant R models
- Established premium NocPix platform
NocPix ACE 2 – Latest-Generation Thermal Scopes
ACE 2 takes the familiar premium riflescope format and updates it with NocPix's latest thermal imaging and control technologies.
The range currently includes H35R, H50R and flagship S60R configurations, covering premium 640×512 and 1280×1024 thermal imaging.
Across the range, ACE 2 introduces technologies including Ocular Zoom 2.0, R+ 2.0 image processing, LRF 2.0, Ballistic Calculation 2.0 and Dual Clarity viewing modes.
Why choose ACE 2?
- Latest-generation NocPix platform
- Premium 640 and flagship 1280 resolution options
- Very low thermal sensitivity
- Integrated LRF across the current range
- Updated ballistic calculation
- Traditional 30mm scope-style mounting
- Strong balance of field of view and target detail
If you want a conventional riflescope-style thermal optic and are choosing between ACE and ACE 2, ACE 2 is the range to look at first if budget allows.
NocPix BOLT – Accessible Dedicated Thermal Scopes
BOLT provides the most accessible dedicated thermal riflescope family within the current NocPix range.
The range progresses through three distinct sensor classes:
- P25R: 256×192 – entry point into the BOLT family
- L35R: 384×288 – useful step up in resolution and range
- H50R: 640×512 – premium image quality within the BOLT platform
All three retain a conventional riflescope layout while combining integrated laser ranging and ballistic functionality.
Choose BOLT if: you want a dedicated thermal scope with useful premium features but do not need the higher-end ACE, ACE 2 or RICO 2 platform.
NocPix RICO 2 – Long-Range Thermal Scopes
RICO 2 is designed around premium long-range thermal performance, combining large F1.0 objective lenses, sensitive thermal detectors, integrated rangefinding, ballistic calculation and NocPix's dedicated stepless zoom control.
The family currently ranges from the L42R through to the flagship S75R:
- L42R: 384×288 / 42mm – accessible RICO 2 model
- H50R: 640×512 / 50mm – strongest all-round balance
- H75R: 640×512 / 75mm – specialist long-range configuration
- S75R: 1280×1024 / 75mm – flagship image performance
The S75R is particularly unusual because its huge 1280×1024 detector allows it to combine a long 75mm lens with a much wider field of view than would normally be expected from that focal length.
Choose RICO 2 if: your priority is premium thermal image quality across medium and long distances, particularly over larger open ground.
NocPix NITE – Digital Day & Night Scopes
NITE is not thermal. Instead, it uses a high-resolution digital imaging sensor to provide a conventional visible image.
The current range includes the NITE D70R and newer flagship NITE Pro D50R.
NITE D70R
Uses a 3536×3536 12MP sensor with a long 70mm F2.0 objective and 5–40× magnification. It is the more long-range-biased NITE configuration.
NITE Pro D50R
Uses an 8000×6000 48MP sensor, fast 50mm F1.25 optics, 3–36× magnification and a much wider field of view. It also adds technologies such as Target Sync and Light+ processing.
Choose NITE if: you want full-colour daytime use and a detailed conventional-looking image at night rather than a heat-based thermal picture.
Thermal vs Digital Night Vision – Which Is Better?
Neither technology is universally better. They are designed to solve different problems.
| Thermal | NITE Digital | |
|---|---|---|
| How Image Is Created | Detects heat differences | Uses visible / infrared light |
| Complete Darkness | Works without illumination | May require IR illumination |
| Finding Animals | Excellent | More dependent on visibility |
| Daytime Colour | No natural colour image | Full colour |
| Visible Markings | Heat-based representation | Excellent visual detail |
| Best Strength | Detection | Visual identification |
Choose thermal: if finding heat sources rapidly in darkness is your main priority.
Choose NITE: if you want a natural-looking image, full-colour daytime use and detailed visual identification.
256 vs 384 vs 640 vs 1280 Thermal Resolution
Sensor resolution describes the number of individual thermal pixels used to build the image. More native pixels generally provide more image information and help retain detail when digital magnification is applied.
256×192
Approximately 49,000 thermal pixels. Primarily found at the more accessible end of the range, including the BOLT P25R.
384×288
Approximately 111,000 thermal pixels. A strong mid-level resolution offering useful image detail without moving into the price of a 640 detector.
640×512
Approximately 327,000 thermal pixels. This is one of the most popular premium thermal resolutions and provides almost three times as many pixels as 384×288.
1280×1024
More than 1.3 million thermal pixels. This is around four times the pixel count of 640×512 and is used by flagship models such as the RICO 2 S75R and high-end ACE configurations.
Higher resolution becomes particularly valuable when viewing smaller or more distant heat sources and when increasing digital magnification.
What Does NETD Mean?
NETD stands for Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference and is a measure of how small a temperature difference the thermal detector can distinguish.
The lower the NETD figure, the more sensitive the detector.
This becomes particularly important when thermal contrast is poor, such as during mild weather, fog, damp conditions or when the background temperature is close to that of the animal.
A premium sensor with strong NETD performance can often show more subtle thermal detail than resolution alone would suggest.
Lens Size, Magnification & Field of View
Objective lens size has a major effect on the character of a thermal scope.
A longer focal length generally gives greater native target scale at distance, but normally narrows the field of view.
Shorter lens / lower base magnification
Better for scanning wider areas and locating animals quickly at shorter or mixed distances.
Longer lens / higher base magnification
Better for open fields and longer distances where the target occupies a smaller portion of the scene.
This is why two scopes using the same sensor resolution can feel completely different in use. A 640×512 35mm model may provide a broad scanning view, while a 640×512 75mm model gives much greater target scale but shows less surrounding ground.
Do I Need an Integrated Laser Rangefinder?
An integrated laser rangefinder allows distance to be measured through the scope without switching to a separate handheld rangefinder.
This becomes particularly valuable at night because normal visual references used to judge distance are much harder to see.
Many NocPix R-designated scopes incorporate a laser rangefinder, and the latest platforms combine ranging with onboard ballistic calculation.
The practical advantage is that detection, observation, range measurement and ballistic assistance can take place through the same optic.
What Does Ballistic Calculation Do?
Ballistic calculation combines measured distance with configured rifle and ammunition information to provide a calculated aiming correction.
This can be particularly useful when shooting distances vary substantially and estimating both range and holdover manually becomes difficult.
Correct ballistic information must be entered for the system to provide meaningful results.
Ballistic calculation should always be treated as an aiming aid. Correct zeroing, verified ammunition data, positive target identification and a safe backstop remain essential.
Conventional Scope Mounting vs Rail Mount
NocPix offers more than one physical scope format across its range.
Conventional scope-style models
These use a familiar riflescope body and can be mounted using suitable scope rings. ACE 2 is a good example of this style.
Dedicated rail-mount models
Models such as selected ACE RM and RICO 2 scopes use a dedicated Picatinny-style mounting arrangement rather than traditional round scope rings.
If your rifle uses an 11mm dovetail rather than a compatible Picatinny rail, a suitable dovetail-to-Picatinny adaptor may be required for rail-mounted models.
Always check the mounting system of the specific model rather than assuming all NocPix scopes fit in the same way.
Detection Range vs Identification Range
Thermal manufacturers often quote very long detection ranges, but detection and positive identification are not the same thing.
Detection
Establishing that a heat source is present.
Recognition
Determining the general type or shape of the heat source.
Identification
Seeing enough detail to establish exactly what the subject is.
A scope may detect a large heat source at several kilometres under ideal test conditions while positive identification occurs at a much shorter distance.
Real-world performance also varies with target size, weather, humidity, thermal contrast, terrain and vegetation.
Which NocPix Range Is Best for My Ground?
Smaller fields and mixed-distance pest control
Look towards wider-view models such as ACE 2 H35R, ACE H50-class models or RICO 2 H50R rather than automatically choosing the longest lens available.
General premium all-round use
ACE and ACE 2 are the obvious starting points. ACE 2 is particularly attractive if you want the latest-generation platform.
Keeping the budget sensible
BOLT gives you dedicated thermal capability, LRF and ballistic features at a more accessible level.
Large fields and longer distances
RICO 2 H75R, RICO 2 S75R and the larger-lens ACE models are designed with this type of ground in mind.
Maximum thermal image quality
Look towards the 1280×1024 models in the ACE, ACE 2 and RICO 2 ranges.
One optic for daylight and night use
NITE is the correct family if you want a conventional full-colour daytime image rather than thermal imaging.
Original ACE vs ACE 2 – Which Should I Choose?
The original ACE remains a capable premium thermal platform and has the advantage of a broader range of established models, including rail-mount configurations.
ACE 2 is the newer generation and introduces updated technologies including Ocular Zoom 2.0, R+ 2.0 processing, LRF 2.0, Ballistic Calculation 2.0 and Dual Clarity.
Choose ACE: where a particular existing ACE specification, price or RM rail-mount format suits your setup.
Choose ACE 2: if you want the latest conventional riflescope-style NocPix thermal platform.
ACE 2 vs RICO 2 – Which Premium Range?
ACE 2 and RICO 2 both sit towards the premium end of the NocPix line-up, but their physical designs and emphasis are different.
ACE 2
- Traditional riflescope-style body
- 30mm mounting format
- Latest NocPix ACE technology
- Excellent all-round balance
- Strong choice for users moving from conventional glass
RICO 2
- Dedicated thermal riflescope design
- Large 42mm, 50mm and 75mm objective options
- Dedicated stepless zoom control
- Strong emphasis on medium and long-range thermal performance
- Flagship 1280×1024 S75R option
ACE 2: better if you prefer traditional scope handling.
RICO 2: better if large-lens long-range thermal performance is your priority.
NocPix Scope Warranty
NocPix warranty periods differ slightly depending on whether the product is thermal, digital or an accessory.
| Component | Typical NocPix Cover |
|---|---|
| Main Device | 3 years |
| Rechargeable Batteries | 2 years |
| Thermal Detector | 10 years on qualifying thermal products |
| NITE Pro Registration | Eligible for an additional 1-year device extension where applicable |
The exact warranty applicable to each model is shown on the individual Bamfords Online product page and remains subject to NocPix's full warranty terms.
Please retain your Bamfords Online invoice as proof of purchase. If a potential warranty fault develops, contact Bamfords Online and we can assist with the warranty process.
NocPix Scopes – Frequently Asked Questions
Which NocPix scope range is best?
It depends on how you use it. BOLT prioritises value, ACE is a broad premium platform, ACE 2 provides the latest conventional riflescope technology, RICO 2 places greater emphasis on long-range thermal performance and NITE provides digital day/night imaging.
Which NocPix range is the newest?
ACE 2 is the latest evolution of NocPix's conventional thermal riflescope platform, while NITE Pro is the latest premium digital day/night system.
Which NocPix thermal scope is best value?
BOLT is the first range to consider if you want to keep the cost down while retaining a dedicated thermal riflescope with useful integrated features.
Which NocPix range is best for long range?
RICO 2 is particularly focused on long-range thermal use, with 50mm and 75mm objective options and a flagship 1280×1024 S75R.
Which range is best for general all-round use?
ACE and ACE 2 are designed as premium all-round thermal families. ACE 2 is the natural starting point if you want the newer platform.
What is the difference between ACE and ACE 2?
ACE 2 introduces NocPix's newer image-processing, zoom, rangefinding and ballistic technologies. The original ACE range remains broader and includes selected RM rail-mount versions.
What is the difference between ACE 2 and RICO 2?
ACE 2 uses a more conventional riflescope-style format, while RICO 2 is a purpose-built thermal design with larger long-range objective options and a dedicated stepless zoom control.
Is NocPix NITE thermal?
No. NITE is a digital day and night vision range. It uses visible and infrared light to create a conventional image rather than detecting heat.
Can NocPix NITE be used during the day?
Yes. Full-colour daytime viewing is one of the main advantages of the NITE system.
Does NITE require an IR torch?
Not during daylight or where sufficient ambient light remains. In complete darkness, suitable infrared illumination is required for digital night vision.
What does 640×512 mean on a thermal scope?
It is the resolution of the thermal detector. A 640×512 detector contains around 327,000 heat-sensitive pixels and provides substantially more native image information than a 384×288 or 256×192 detector.
Is 1280×1024 much better than 640×512?
A 1280×1024 detector contains around four times as many thermal pixels as a 640×512 detector. This can provide substantially more native detail and much stronger performance under digital magnification.
Does a bigger lens always mean a better thermal scope?
No. A longer lens generally provides more native target scale at distance but also narrows the field of view. The right focal length depends on the distances and type of ground you normally work over.
Do all NocPix scopes include a laser rangefinder?
No. Many current R-designated models do, but specifications vary between ranges and models. Check the individual product page before ordering.
What is ballistic calculation?
It uses measured range together with configured rifle and ammunition data to calculate an aiming correction.
What is the difference between detection and identification range?
Detection means establishing that a heat source exists. Positive identification means obtaining enough detail to know exactly what the subject is, and normally occurs at a considerably shorter distance.
What warranty do NocPix scopes have?
The main device is generally covered for 3 years, rechargeable batteries for 2 years and qualifying thermal detectors for 10 years, subject to the manufacturer's warranty terms. Individual product pages show the applicable cover.