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

Ledemichigan Hunter Draws
Ledemichigan Hunter Draws

61-Year-Old Elk-Hunting Dream Fulfilled in Michigan

Michigan elk hunters faced challenging weather and storm-ravaged terrain to harvest 153 elk in 2025. That didn’t deter Bruce Nelson of Hastings, Mich. He applied for an elk license every year Michigan has held a drawing.

New for 2026: Blaser R8 Professional 2.0

The Blaser R8 Professional 2.0 promises to be the modern evolution of the iconic straight-pull rifle. The rifle features a new, ergonomically optimized vertical pistol grip for increased comfort and improved control when firing, and its ambidextrous palm swell fits both right- and left-handed shooters.

New for 2026: Leupold BX-6 Range HD Rangefinding Binocular

Leupold has launched its BX-6 Range HD rangefinding binocular. With fast, accurate ranging capabilities out to 6,000 yards, an advanced ballistics intelligence and precision GPS pinning, the BX-6 Range HD is looking to carve out a space for itself as a feature-rich rangefinding offering.

(Squirrel) Dog Days in the Delta

In the Deep South, Ringo and Max prove the sole purpose in the life of a feist is to hunt squirrels.

Primos Celebrates its 50th Anniversary

Primos, now a Revelyst brand, will continue its 50th anniversary celebration throughout 2026 with a brand refresh, new product launches, storytelling initiatives and moments that honor the hunters and traditions that made the brand what it is today.

Henry Introduces New Deadeye Revolvers

Henry Repeating Arms has announced the addition of two new revolver variants, the H16 Golden Boy Deadeye Revolver and the H17 Big Boy Deadeye Revolver, created in direct response to feedback from Henry owners and enthusiasts.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.