First Look: Leupold LTO-Quest Thermal Optic

by
posted on August 30, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
lto_quest_f.jpg

Earlier this year, Oregon-based Leupold Optics launched the LTO-Tracker, a handheld thermal imaging device that was crafted with hunters in mind—which still didn't stop our friends over at Shooting Illustrated from taking a closer look at it as a personal defense tool. This spring, Leupold doubled down on the concept by introducing the LTO-Quest. The palm-sized LTO-Quest differentiates itself from the original Tracker (which more resembles a monocular) by serving as a palm-sized thermal imaging viewer and camera. Here are four things you need to know.

It does its job.
The LTO-Quest packs quite the punch for its size. Using its 206x156 thermal sensor with a 20 degree field of view, it's capable of detecting a thermal reading out 300 yards using any one of eight color palettes. It’ll operate in temperatures ranging from four-below to 140°F, and it can read temperatures well beyond that—on both sides of the spectrum.

It's compact.
Truth be told, neither of Leupold's thermal products is really a burden to carry around. The Quest really is palm-sized—see the embedded photo for proof of that. Better yet, it weighs in at just less than 7 ounces, so you're not going to have to worry about it adding much weight to your pack.

Features, Features, Features
The LTO-Quest is packed with a bevy of little features that hunters will be able to appreciate. It has a rugged, rubberized body that should keep it relatively safe from whatever elements you’re dealing with. It includes a 300 lumen, dual intensity flashlight, and a micro USB is port is included both for charging, and to download any images that are stored on the included, removable microSD card.

It's easy to use.
"Thermal imaging device" may sound intimidating on paper, but never fear—the LTO-Quest is decidedly easy to use. The controls are intuitive, and take no time to master. A four-hour battery life ensures that your Quest will make it through any job you've got in mind.

Latest

W H2026 08 F Cape Buffalo 9R0A7308
W H2026 08 F Cape Buffalo 9R0A7308

Hunting Cape Buffalo: Don’t Just Stand There—Keep Shooting

A 49-year veteran of hunting the Cape buffalo is here to say encounters with the great beast aren’t always as you imagine.

Reviewed: Plano GoNow Boxes

Need something waterproof to store your hunting or shooting gear on the way to camp or the range? Look no further. Plano’s GoNow boxes hit the mark!

Standout New Hunting Guns of 2026

This year’s standout hunting firearms reveal an industry focused on refining proven ideas. Manufacturers are increasingly embracing features once reserved for premium models and including extras that a few years ago were considered aftermarket additions. Whether you’re chasing game close to home or venturing deep into the backcountry, today’s new hunting guns arrive more capable than ever before.

Massive Expansion of Hunting and Fishing Opportunities

The Department of the Interior recently announced the largest expansion of hunting and sport fishing opportunities in the history of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Service is also making more than 1,000 modifications to existing regulatory provisions, reducing complexity and making it easier for hunters and anglers to understand and comply with applicable rules. 

Behind the Bullet: The .25 WSSM

Quarterbores are back, so let's take a look at a fan favorite released just after the turn of the millennium: the .25 WSSM.

Henry Repeating Arms Introduces the Founding Fathers Collection

Henry Repeating Arms has introduced the Founding Fathers Collection, a series of seven Tribute Edition rifles honoring the men who shaped the American republic: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, James Madison, John Jay, and Alexander Hamilton.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.