POTD: Thermal Dominance - Nocpix MATE Ultra 1280x in the Field

This Photo of the Day centers on a modern precision-oriented hunting setup built around a Schmeisser Pro Hunter finished in FDE, shown working through both daylight and thermal conditions. This is a setup a lot of people are looking for, to be able to work day and night, and to be able to swiftly change from one advanced setting to another without losing optical quality.

Topping the rifle is the Schmidt & Bender 3-18×42 META riflescope, a first-focal-plane optic mounted in a Spuhr QD mount, offering a flexible magnification range suited for about everything except really close range, to extended-distance confirmation.

The real standout in this series, however, is the Nocpix MATE Ultimate thermal clip-on. Featuring a self-developed sensor made in China, the MATE delivers a high-resolution 1280×1024 image at 60 Hz, paired with an impressive NETD of 15 mK, allowing subtle heat differences to stand out clearly in challenging environments. Yes, the optical line doesn’t completely align here, but with a slightly higher mount (which I didn’t have at the time), you’ll get a perfect image.

Image clarity is further enhanced through the Magic Zoom accessory, which refines both the user interface and perceived detail. An integrated, safety-compliant laser rangefinder rated to 1,200 meters adds another layer of capability, particularly when transitioning between observation and engagement decisions. The LRF is very fast, and the distance is shown on-screen.

Power comes from a readily available 18650 battery (top-loaded), keeping logistics simple.

Sound and signature management are handled by the new ASE Utra DUAL556-MINI GEN2, mounted via the company’s BoreLock QD system.

Let’s round this photo collection out with direct thermal captures from the Nocpix MATE Ultra, including close-range imagery of wild boar, showcasing just how much detail modern thermal technology can reveal when distances collapse and conditions turn dark.

White hot and black hot work really well. I like the green hot also, especially for longer stays to ease on the eyes.

Red hot isn’t bad either.

Let’s end with a video from a forest full of wild boar and the Nocpix MATE Ultra:

If you’re interested in the Nocpix Mate Ultra, check here: https://www.nocpix.com/mate-ultra/

The ASE Utra Dual-Mini: https://www.aseutra.fi/en/dual-556-mini-mil/ and the Schmeisser Pro Hunter: https://schmeisser-germany.com/en/ar15-pro-hunter/