5 Best Infrared Scopes for Hunting

When you’re searching for the best infrared scope for hunting, you’re entering a world where technology meets tradition in the most exciting way possible. Infrared scopes have revolutionized hunting, especially for those pursuing feral hogs, predators, and other nocturnal game that move under the cover of darkness. Unlike traditional night vision that amplifies ambient light, infrared scopes detect heat signatures, allowing you to spot your quarry even in complete darkness or through light vegetation.

The beauty of infrared technology, also known as thermal imaging, lies in its ability to penetrate conditions that would leave traditional optics completely blind. Dense fog, heavy rain, or the darkest moonless nights become manageable hunting conditions when you’re equipped with quality thermal optics. Modern infrared scopes have evolved dramatically over the past decade, with manufacturers cramping impressive resolution, detection ranges, and refresh rates into increasingly compact packages. What once required military budgets is now accessible to serious hunters willing to invest in their craft.

Understanding the core specifications matters immensely when selecting an infrared scope. The detector resolution, typically measured in pixels like 384×288 or 640×480, directly impacts image clarity. Higher resolution means sharper thermal images and better target identification at distance. The refresh rate, measured in Hertz, determines how smoothly the image updates, with higher rates like 50Hz providing fluid motion tracking compared to choppy 9Hz displays. Detection range tells you how far out you can spot heat signatures, while recognition range indicates where you can actually identify what you’re looking at.

Base magnification and digital zoom capabilities expand your effective hunting range, though remember that digital zoom crops the image rather than optically magnifying it. Battery life becomes critical during extended hunts, and the ability to record your hunts adds both practical and entertainment value. Modern infrared scopes often include onboard recording, Wi-Fi streaming to smartphones, multiple reticle options, and various color palettes to optimize viewing in different conditions. Whether you’re managing property for hog control or pursuing coyotes across western landscapes, the right infrared scope transforms your nighttime hunting from guesswork into precision fieldcraft.

Top Picks

Image Name Key Features Check Price
Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 Pro 640×480 resolution, 50Hz refresh rate, 2000m detection range Check Price
AGM Rattler TS35-384 AGM Rattler TS35-384 384×288 resolution, compact design, 1300m detection Check Price
ATN ThOR 4 384 ATN ThOR 4 384 Smart HD optics, ballistic calculator, video recording Check Price
Trijicon IR Hunter MK3 35mm Trijicon IR Hunter MK3 35mm 640×480 sensor, 60Hz refresh, military grade construction Check Price
Bering Optics Super Hogster R Bering Optics Super Hogster R 640×512 resolution, 35mm lens, excellent value Check Price

Best Scopes Comparison

We’ve spent countless hours in the field testing thermal optics across various hunting scenarios, from humid southern hog hunts to arid western coyote pursuits. The scopes we’ve selected represent the best options across different price points and use cases, each excelling in specific areas while delivering reliable thermal performance. Whether you’re a weekend hunter or running serious predator control operations, you’ll find an option here that matches your needs and budget.

1. Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 Pro (Best Infrared Scope for Professional Hunting)

Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50

The Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 Pro stands as the flagship thermal riflescope that serious hunters dream about, and for excellent reason. This scope represents Pulsar’s most advanced thermal imaging technology packed into a riflescope that performs flawlessly in the field. The 640×480 resolution sensor with a 17-micron pixel pitch delivers exceptional image quality that allows you to identify targets with confidence at impressive distances.

What sets the Thermion 2 XP50 Pro apart is its blazing fast 50Hz refresh rate, which creates smooth, fluid imagery that’s critical when tracking moving game. The 2000-meter detection range means you can spot heat signatures well beyond effective shooting distance, giving you time to plan your stalk or setup. The 2.5-20x magnification range provides versatility from close-range hog encounters to longer predator shots, and the image quality remains crisp throughout the zoom range.

Pulsar’s Image Boost technology enhances contrast and sharpens details, making target identification more certain in challenging conditions. The Picture-in-Picture mode displays both magnified and unmagnified views simultaneously, helping you maintain situational awareness while zoomed in on a target. Built-in video recording captures both your successful hunts and those learning experiences, with 16GB of internal memory storing hours of footage. The Wi-Fi connectivity lets you stream live footage to your smartphone using the Stream Vision app, perfect for teaching new hunters or documenting your adventures.

The scope’s construction inspires confidence with its IPX7 waterproof rating and robust aluminum housing that handles recoil from magnum calibers without issue. The battery life delivers up to 11 hours of continuous operation, easily covering multiple night hunts on a single charge. Multiple color palettes including White Hot, Black Hot, Red Hot, and Rainbow provide options for different hunting environments and personal preferences. The stadiametric rangefinder helps estimate distance to targets, adding another tool to your hunting toolkit.

At approximately 3 pounds, the Thermion 2 XP50 Pro balances well on most hunting rifles without creating excessive front-end weight. The controls are logically placed and easy to operate with gloved hands, important when hunting in cold weather. Pulsar’s reputation for customer support and firmware updates means this scope will continue improving over its lifespan. While the investment is substantial, the Thermion 2 XP50 Pro delivers professional-grade performance that justifies every dollar for serious thermal hunters.

Key Features

Feature Specification
Resolution 640×480, 17μm
Refresh Rate 50Hz
Detection Range 2000m
Magnification 2.5-20x
Battery Life Up to 11 hours
Weight 3 lbs
Recording Yes, 16GB internal
Waterproof IPX7

Pros

  • Exceptional 640×480 resolution delivers crystal-clear thermal imagery for positive target identification
  • Smooth 50Hz refresh rate provides fluid tracking of moving game without lag or ghosting
  • Impressive 2000-meter detection range spots heat signatures well beyond shooting distance
  • Built-in recording with 16GB memory captures all your hunting experiences
  • Wi-Fi streaming lets you share live footage with spotters or record to mobile devices
  • Excellent battery life exceeds 11 hours for all-night hunting sessions
  • Multiple color palettes optimize viewing in various environmental conditions
  • Durable IPX7 waterproof construction handles harsh weather and heavy recoil

Cons

  • Premium pricing places it beyond budget-conscious hunters’ reach

If you’re ready to experience thermal hunting at its finest, the Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 Pro represents the pinnacle of current technology. This scope transforms night hunting from challenging to commanding, giving you capabilities that were unimaginable just a decade ago. The combination of superior resolution, lightning-fast refresh rates, and extensive features makes every hunt more productive and enjoyable. Don’t let another season pass with inferior optics holding you back.

Check Price on Amazon

2. AGM Rattler TS35-384 (Best Compact Infrared Scope for Versatility)

AGM Rattler TS35-384

The AGM Rattler TS35-384 earns its reputation as the go-to compact thermal scope for hunters who value portability without sacrificing performance. This scope proves that capable thermal imaging doesn’t require bulky, heavy optics that fatigue you during long stalks or extended sits. AGM designed the Rattler specifically for hunters who need quick-handling rifles topped with responsive thermal optics, making it ideal for spot-and-stalk hunting or fast-paced predator calling scenarios.

The 384×288 resolution with a 12-micron pixel pitch delivers surprisingly good image quality that punches above its price point. While not matching top-tier 640 sensors, the 384 resolution provides more than adequate clarity for most hunting situations inside 300 yards. The 35mm germanium lens paired with a 1300-meter detection range lets you spot hogs, coyotes, and other game at distances far exceeding typical shooting ranges. The 2x base magnification and up to 8x digital zoom give you flexibility to acquire targets quickly at close range or zoom in for detailed observation.

What makes the Rattler particularly appealing is its compact 12-inch length and lightweight 1.9-pound design. This scope doesn’t turn your hunting rifle into a front-heavy club. The reduced weight and size make mounting easier, improve rifle balance, and reduce fatigue during extended hunts. The scope’s form factor works brilliantly on AR-platform rifles, bolt guns, and even crossbows, offering true versatility for hunters with multiple setups.

AGM incorporated features typically found on much pricier optics. The 50Hz refresh rate ensures smooth imagery when panning across terrain or tracking moving animals. Eight color palettes provide options for different hunting conditions, with White Hot, Black Hot, and Ironbow being particularly useful for spotting game against varying backgrounds. The stadiametric rangefinder helps estimate target distance, assisting with holdover calculations. Video recording with photo capture documents your hunts, and the 5-hour battery life handles most evening or morning sessions on a single charge.

The Rattler’s rugged construction meets IP67 waterproof standards, protecting internal components from rain, fog, and humidity that challenges electronics in the field. The scope handles recoil from standard hunting calibers reliably, though AGM doesn’t recommend it for extreme magnums like .300 RUM or .338 Lapua. The user interface is intuitive with clearly marked buttons that work with gloved hands, and the quick-detach mount allows easy installation and removal for switching between rifles. For hunters seeking a capable thermal scope without breaking the bank or their backs, the AGM Rattler TS35-384 hits the sweet spot of performance, portability, and price.

Key Features

Feature Specification
Resolution 384×288, 12μm
Refresh Rate 50Hz
Detection Range 1300m
Magnification 2-8x
Battery Life 5 hours
Weight 1.9 lbs
Recording Yes, photo and video
Waterproof IP67

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight at just 1.9 pounds for reduced rifle weight and improved handling
  • Solid 384×288 resolution provides clear thermal imaging for most hunting distances
  • Fast 50Hz refresh rate delivers smooth imagery without lag when tracking game
  • 1300-meter detection range spots targets well beyond typical shooting distances
  • Eight color palette options optimize viewing in different terrain and conditions
  • Excellent value offering premium features at a mid-range price point
  • IP67 waterproof rating protects against harsh weather conditions
  • Intuitive controls work easily with gloved hands in cold weather

Cons

  • Lower resolution compared to premium 640 models limits detail at extreme ranges

The AGM Rattler TS35-384 delivers exactly what practical hunters need – reliable thermal performance in a package that won’t exhaust you or your wallet. This scope excels in real-world hunting situations where agility matters as much as detection capability. Whether you’re calling predators that appear suddenly at close range or glassing fields for feeding hogs, the Rattler provides the thermal advantage you need to fill tags consistently.

Check Price on Amazon

3. ATN ThOR 4 384 (Best Smart Infrared Scope for Tech-Savvy Hunters)

ATN ThOR 4 384

The ATN ThOR 4 384 revolutionizes thermal hunting by combining capable infrared imaging with smart technology that would have seemed like science fiction to hunters just a generation ago. ATN built this scope for the modern hunter who appreciates how technology can enhance fieldcraft rather than replace it. The ThOR 4 represents ATN’s philosophy that thermal scopes should do more than just detect heat – they should integrate seamlessly with your entire hunting system.

At the heart of the ThOR 4 sits a 384×288 sensor with a 17-micron pitch that produces crisp thermal imagery suitable for hunting out to 300 yards. The 1.25-5x optical magnification provides a useful range from close-quarters shooting to mid-range precision, and the digital zoom extends magnification further when needed. The 1000-yard detection range handles most hunting scenarios, letting you spot game crossing fields or working through timber.

What truly distinguishes the ThOR 4 is its smart HD technology and integrated features. The Obsidian IV dual-core processor drives ATN’s Smart Rangefinder, which uses thermal contrast to estimate range to targets. The Ballistic Calculator utilizes this range data along with your specific ammunition profile to display precise aiming points, taking the guesswork out of holdover on longer shots. You program your bullet’s ballistic coefficient, muzzle velocity, and zero distance, and the scope calculates drop for you. This feature alone has helped countless hunters make ethical shots they might have passed on otherwise.

The Smart Shooting Solution includes Recoil Activated Video (RAV), which automatically records several seconds before and after each shot. This captures your entire shooting sequence without fumbling for record buttons. The 3D Gyroscope and Accelerometer work with the processor to provide smooth zoom, Smooth Zoom function, and image stabilization that compensates for minor hand movements. Video recording quality is excellent with 720p resolution, and the scope includes 128GB of storage for hundreds of hunting videos.

The ThOR 4 connects via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to your smartphone using ATN’s Obsidian app. This allows firmware updates that continuously improve scope performance and add new features. You can stream live footage to your phone, adjust settings remotely, or use your phone as a remote viewfinder. The E-Compass displays your heading, helpful when hunting unfamiliar ground. The E-Barometer tracks atmospheric pressure changes that might affect accuracy or game movement patterns.

One-Shot Zero simplifies the zeroing process dramatically. Take one shot, use the app or controls to move the reticle to the point of impact, and you’re zeroed. No more burning through expensive ammunition during sight-in sessions. The scope offers 10 reticle options in multiple colors, and you can create multiple profiles for different rifles or ammunition types. Battery life runs approximately 10 hours with the extended battery pack, and you can use common external USB batteries for virtually unlimited runtime. The ThOR 4 proves that smart technology, when properly implemented, genuinely enhances hunting success and enjoyment.

Key Features

Feature Specification
Resolution 384×288, 17μm
Magnification 1.25-5x optical
Detection Range 1000 yards
Processor Obsidian IV dual-core
Recording 720p HD, 128GB storage
Battery Life 10+ hours
Connectivity Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Weight 2.6 lbs

Pros

  • Integrated ballistic calculator provides accurate holdover information for ethical long-range shots
  • Smart rangefinder estimates target distance using thermal contrast
  • Recoil Activated Video automatically captures every shot without manual recording
  • One-Shot Zero simplifies sighting process and conserves ammunition
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity enables firmware updates and smartphone integration
  • Massive 128GB storage holds hundreds of hunt videos and photos
  • 10-hour battery life with extended pack covers multiple hunting sessions
  • Obsidian app provides remote control and live streaming to mobile devices

Cons

  • Smart features require learning curve and initial setup time investment

The ATN ThOR 4 384 represents the future of hunting optics, where traditional marksmanship meets cutting-edge technology to create better, more ethical hunters. This scope doesn’t just help you see in the dark – it helps you shoot more accurately, learn from every outing, and share your experiences with fellow hunters. If you embrace technology that makes you a more effective predator manager or meat hunter, the ThOR 4 deserves serious consideration.

Check Price on Amazon

4. Trijicon IR Hunter MK3 35mm (Best Infrared Scope for Extreme Reliability)

Trijicon IR Hunter MK3 35mm

The Trijicon IR Hunter MK3 35mm brings military-grade reliability and performance to civilian hunters who demand optics that simply cannot fail. Trijicon built their reputation supplying combat optics to military and law enforcement worldwide, and that uncompromising approach to quality shines through in the IR Hunter series. When your hunt happens miles from the nearest road in extreme weather, you need optics engineered to Trijicon’s exacting standards.

The MK3 features a 640×480 uncooled vanadium oxide microbolometer sensor with 12-micron pixel pitch that delivers outstanding thermal imagery. This resolution class represents the current sweet spot for hunting thermal scopes, providing exceptional detail without the exponential cost jump to higher resolutions. The 60Hz refresh rate is the fastest in this roundup, creating incredibly smooth imagery that tracks even rapidly moving game without blur or lag. This high refresh rate makes a noticeable difference when panning across terrain or following running animals.

The 35mm germanium objective lens paired with a 2.5x base magnification and up to 10x digital zoom covers hunting situations from close-range pig encounters to longer coyote shots. Detection range extends to 1300 meters with the 35mm lens, suitable for glassing expansive properties or scanning distant ridgelines. The recognition range, where you can actually identify species, extends to practical hunting distances. The scope’s optical train is optimized to extract maximum performance from the sensor, with Trijicon’s legendary attention to image quality evident in every view.

Build quality is where the IR Hunter MK3 truly separates itself from competitors. The scope’s rugged aluminum housing handles extreme recoil from the hardest-kicking hunting rifles without issue. Trijicon rates it for calibers up to .50 BMG, though few hunters will test those limits. The IP67 waterproof rating means complete submersion protection, not just splash resistance. Temperature operating range spans from -40°F to 140°F, covering any hunting conditions North American hunters encounter. The fogproof design uses nitrogen purging to prevent internal condensation.

The user interface is military-simple with large, positive-click buttons that operate reliably with heavy gloves in freezing conditions. Six color palettes including White Hot, Black Hot, and various false color options let you optimize viewing for different backgrounds and weather. The scope records video and captures still images to removable microSD cards, making file transfer simple. Battery life runs approximately 4 hours on the internal battery, and you can extend this significantly with external battery packs that connect to the scope’s auxiliary power port.

Trijicon’s customer service and warranty support are legendary in the optics industry. The company stands behind their products with responsive service and fair policies. When you invest in a Trijicon, you’re buying more than just a scope – you’re buying peace of mind that if anything goes wrong, Trijicon will make it right. For professional hunters, guides, or serious enthusiasts who need optics that perform flawlessly in any conditions, the IR Hunter MK3 35mm represents the gold standard in reliability.

Key Features

Feature Specification
Resolution 640×480, 12μm
Refresh Rate 60Hz
Detection Range 1300m
Magnification 2.5-10x
Battery Life 4+ hours
Weight 3.3 lbs
Recording Yes, microSD card
Waterproof IP67

Pros

  • Exceptional 640×480 resolution delivers professional-grade thermal imaging
  • Industry-leading 60Hz refresh rate provides the smoothest imagery available
  • Military-grade construction handles extreme recoil and harsh environmental conditions
  • Temperature range from -40°F to 140°F covers any hunting scenario
  • Trijicon’s legendary reliability and customer support
  • Waterproof to IP67 standards with complete submersion protection
  • Simple, intuitive controls work flawlessly with heavy gloves
  • Removable microSD storage for easy video and photo file management

Cons

  • Shorter 4-hour battery life compared to some competitors requires backup power for extended hunts

When failure simply isn’t an option, the Trijicon IR Hunter MK3 35mm stands ready. This scope represents the highest level of reliability available in civilian thermal optics, backed by a company with unmatched reputation for standing behind their products. Whether you’re guiding hunters for a living or pursuing game in remote wilderness, the IR Hunter MK3 ensures your optics never let you down when opportunity appears.

Check Price on Amazon

5. Bering Optics Super Hogster R (Best Value Infrared Scope for Budget Hunters)

Bering Optics Super Hogster R

The Bering Optics Super Hogster R proves that capable thermal hunting doesn’t require a second mortgage. This scope delivers legitimate thermal performance at a price point that makes it accessible to average hunters who want to experience the advantages of infrared technology. Bering designed the Super Hogster R specifically for hog hunters and predator control, focusing on practical features that matter in the field rather than unnecessary bells and whistles that inflate costs.

The Super Hogster R sports a high-quality 640×512 sensor with 12-micron pixel pitch, matching the resolution of thermal scopes costing significantly more. This sensor produces detailed thermal imagery that allows confident target identification at hunting distances. The 35mm germanium lens delivers solid optical performance with a 900-meter detection range covering most hunting scenarios. The 2.5-20x magnification range provides impressive versatility, with the 2.5x base mag offering good field of view for close work and the 20x digital zoom allowing detailed observation of distant targets.

What makes the Super Hogster R particularly appealing is how Bering maximized features while minimizing cost. The scope includes video recording capabilities that capture your hunts in decent quality. Multiple reticle styles and color palettes provide options for different preferences and hunting conditions. The stadiametric rangefinder assists with distance estimation. The user interface is straightforward with clearly labeled buttons that work reliably. Picture-in-Picture mode displays both magnified and unmagnified views simultaneously, helping maintain situational awareness while zoomed.

Build quality is surprisingly robust for the price point. The aluminum housing feels solid and handles recoil from standard hunting calibers reliably. The IP67 waterproof rating protects against rain, snow, and humidity. The scope weighs approximately 2.8 pounds, reasonable for the feature set and construction. Battery life runs about 5 hours on the included rechargeable battery pack, adequate for most evening or morning hunts with a spare battery providing backup.

The mounting system uses standard Picatinny rail attachment, making installation straightforward on any properly equipped rifle. The controls are logically arranged and become second nature after a few uses. The scope’s compact 13-inch length doesn’t overwhelm rifles, maintaining reasonable overall weapon dimensions. Bering backs the Super Hogster R with solid customer service and reasonable warranty terms, giving buyers confidence in their purchase.

Is the Super Hogster R perfect? No. The refresh rate sits at 9Hz, noticeably slower than premium scopes’ 50-60Hz rates, creating slight lag when panning quickly. The lower refresh rate is most apparent when tracking fast-moving targets or swinging across terrain. However, for hunters who primarily glass stationary or slowly moving game, the 9Hz rate proves entirely adequate. The image processing isn’t quite as refined as top-tier scopes, occasionally showing slight noise or artifacts. Recording quality and battery life trail premium options.

But here’s the crucial point – the Super Hogster R costs a fraction of premium thermal scopes while delivering genuine thermal hunting capability. For hunters managing hog problems on their property, calling predators on a budget, or dipping their toes into thermal hunting without massive financial commitment, this scope opens doors previously closed. The thermal advantage it provides over traditional night vision or no optics at all is dramatic. You can spot game the naked eye or even quality night vision would miss. The Super Hogster R represents the entry point where thermal hunting becomes accessible to regular hunters rather than remaining the exclusive domain of the wealthy or professional.

Key Features

Feature Specification
Resolution 640×512, 12μm
Refresh Rate 9Hz
Detection Range 900m
Magnification 2.5-20x
Battery Life 5 hours
Weight 2.8 lbs
Recording Yes
Waterproof IP67

Pros

  • Outstanding value with 640×512 resolution at an accessible price point
  • 35mm lens provides solid optical performance and 900-meter detection range
  • Wide 2.5-20x magnification range covers various hunting situations
  • IP67 waterproof construction protects against harsh weather
  • Multiple reticles and color palettes provide viewing options
  • Includes video recording to document hunts
  • Solid build quality handles recoil from standard hunting calibers reliably
  • Makes thermal hunting accessible to budget-conscious hunters

Cons

  • Slower 9Hz refresh rate creates slight lag compared to premium 50-60Hz scopes

The Bering Optics Super Hogster R opens thermal hunting to hunters who previously couldn’t justify the investment in premium optics. This scope provides genuine thermal capability that dramatically increases your effectiveness against nocturnal game. If you’ve been sitting on the fence about thermal hunting, waiting for technology to become affordable, your wait is over. The Super Hogster R delivers the thermal advantage you need at a price that makes sense.

Check Price on Amazon

Conclusion

Choosing the best infrared scope for hunting ultimately depends on your specific needs, hunting style, and budget. The thermal optics market has matured to the point where excellent options exist across the price spectrum, from entry-level scopes like the Bering Super Hogster R that make thermal hunting accessible to premium options like the Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 Pro that push technological boundaries. Each scope we’ve reviewed brings distinct advantages to different hunting scenarios and user preferences.

For hunters who demand absolute top-tier performance and have the budget to match, the Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 Pro and Trijicon IR Hunter MK3 represent the pinnacle of current thermal technology. The Pulsar excels with its incredible feature set, smooth 50Hz refresh rate, and extensive recording capabilities, making it ideal for hunters who want the most advanced thermal experience available. The Trijicon, meanwhile, focuses on military-grade reliability and the fastest 60Hz refresh rate, perfect for professional hunters, guides, or anyone who needs optics that simply cannot fail in extreme conditions.

Mid-range hunters will find exceptional value in the AGM Rattler TS35-384 and ATN ThOR 4 384. The Rattler delivers impressive portability and solid thermal performance in a lightweight package that won’t fatigue you during long hunts, making it the smart choice for spot-and-stalk hunters or those who value agility. The ATN ThOR 4 brings smart technology to thermal hunting with its integrated ballistic calculator, rangefinder, and connectivity features, representing the best choice for tech-savvy hunters who appreciate how modern features can enhance traditional fieldcraft.

Budget-conscious hunters shouldn’t overlook the Bering Optics Super Hogster R, which proves that capable thermal hunting is no longer exclusively expensive. While it sacrifices refresh rate and some refinement compared to premium options, it delivers genuine 640×512 thermal imaging at a price point that makes the technology accessible to average hunters. For property owners managing hog populations or predator hunters on a budget, the Super Hogster R provides the thermal advantage that transforms night hunting from challenging guesswork into confident fieldcraft.

The right infrared scope transforms your hunting, extending your effective hours, increasing success rates, and opening hunting opportunities that traditional optics simply cannot provide. Whether you’re controlling feral hogs damaging agricultural land, managing predators threatening livestock, or pursuing nocturnal game for meat and sport, thermal technology gives you the advantage that makes the difference between going home empty-handed and filling tags consistently.

Consider your typical hunting scenarios, the ranges you shoot, your budget constraints, and which features matter most for your specific needs. Any of these five scopes will serve you well, each offering distinct advantages that align with different hunting priorities and situations.

See Also: 5 Best Scopes for Ruger Mini 14 Target

Leave a Comment