When hunting in complete darkness, the way you mount your NightRide 360° thermal camera directly affects its performance. A well-positioned, solid mount provides a better detection range, smoother footage, and fewer blind spots, even when driving through rough terrain.
To help you achieve optimal performance from your NightRide 360 Series vehicle-mounted thermal camera, we’ve outlined the ideal mounting positions, the best wiring routing method, and ways to minimize vibration.
Roof Mounting for Maximum Spotting Distance
For long-distance detection, nothing beats a roof-mounted setup for your thermal hunting camera. The roof gives your NightRide 360 the highest possible vantage point, which means a boost in detection range and the ability to utilize its full 360-degree field of view without being obstructed by your hood, roof racks, or any other accessories. All 360 models are ideal for spotting wildlife, hog hunting, and predator control. If your geography involves deep fields, you might want to consider our two models with a telescopic 35mm lens.
How To Roof-Mount Your Thermal Camera
If your vehicle has a steel roof, utilizing the included NightRide 360 magnetic mount is the easiest and fastest way to get your camera up and running. This means no drilling, no tools, and no fuss, an ideal solution for hunters who switch vehicles or need a quick setup. To install, remove the rubber base cover, place the EDPM pads over each of the magnets to protect your paintwork, and set your thermal camera in place on your roof - it’s as simple as that.
However, many vehicle manufacturers use aluminum roofs, and the magnetic mount solution will not work. We recommend using the NightRide 360 suction mount as a secure and stable solution that works with any type of roof. To install, clean your vehicle's surface, attach the mount, and secure it in place. This is a quick and secure method for mounting the NightRide 360 thermal camera. Watch out video how
How Hunters Can Reduce Vibration on NightRide 360 Thermal Hunting Cameras
Rough terrain is a common aspect of night hunting, but excessive vibration can blur thermal signatures and compromise clarity.
- One of the most common mistakes that we see is hunters leaving the rubber cover on the bottom of the NightRide 360 camera. This cover must be removed; otherwise, it actually increases vibration.
- If vibration is still noticeable, switching to the suction mount can make a big difference. It naturally absorbs roof flex and provides a more stable base, especially when driving off-road.
- Mount placement also matters. The center of the vehicle roof behaves like a flexible panel, almost like a trampoline, which causes more shaking. The most rigid and stable location is the area above the A-pillar or B-pillar, where the roof structure is strongest. Placing your NightRide 360 in either of these areas significantly reduces vibration and provides a steadier image.
Wiring your roof-mounted thermal camera
The beauty of the NightRide 360 is that it is portable. To maintain a portable setup, a simple wiring installation is required. We recommend routing the camera cable along the door’s weather stripping and plugging it into your 12-volt cigarette lighter. This eliminates the need for drilling or permanent modifications.
Final Thoughts: Our Recommendations
The placement of your camera and the type of mount are key to a better hunt. Utilize the NightRide 360° suction mount and place the camera on the roof above the A-pillars or B-pillar for the best view, minimal vibration, and the longest thermal detection range. The NightRide 360° range is built for hunters who want every advantage in the dark. Explore our full range NightRide 360 thermal cameras.