WAVE ETHOS E6 LRF Thermal Scope

640×512 Resolution • 44mm Objective Lens • Integrated LRF with Auto Ballistics

Check out our partner Blake Myers and his full review of the Wave Ethos E6 LRF

The WAVE ETHOS E6 LRF Thermal Scope delivers premium 640-resolution imaging, an expansive field of view, integrated laser rangefinding and automatic ballistic correction—all in a familiar 30mm tube-style riflescope priced at just $2,999.

At its core is WAVE’s 640×512 MicroTherm 18 Sensor with a 12-micron pixel pitch, 50 Hz refresh rate and sub-18mK thermal sensitivity. Paired with the large 44mm X-WAVE germanium lens and TrueView image processing, the ETHOS E6 is designed to produce excellent target detail, strong contrast and dependable performance in difficult thermal conditions.

The E6 starts at a versatile 2.5× native magnification and provides an exceptionally wide 670-foot field of view at 1,000 yards. That combination makes it easier to locate moving animals, keep multiple hogs in view and maintain better awareness around feeders, timber edges and open fields.

This is not just a long-range thermal scope. The ETHOS E6 is built to be an extremely capable all-around 640 for hog hunters, coyote hunters and property owners who encounter animals at constantly changing distances.

Premium 640×512 Thermal Imaging

The ETHOS E6 uses a 640×512 thermal sensor, capturing nearly three times as many detector pixels as a 384×288 sensor.

That additional resolution provides:

• More detail for positive target identification
• Cleaner outlines around partially concealed animals
• Better separation between similar-sized animals
• More usable image quality while applying digital magnification
• Greater confidence when watching animals across larger fields

This difference matters when distinguishing a coyote from a domestic animal, evaluating individual hogs within a sounder or following an animal moving through uneven terrain.

Resolution is only one part of thermal image quality, however. WAVE combines the 640 sensor with sub-18mK sensitivity, a high-transmission 44mm objective lens and TrueView image processing to create a complete thermal imaging system.

Wide 2.5× Base Magnification

The ETHOS E6 starts at a versatile 2.5× native magnification, giving it a much wider starting view than many higher-magnification 640 thermal scopes.

Its field of view measures 670 feet at 1,000 yards, which equals approximately 22.3 yards at 100 yards.

That wider view makes it easier to:

• Locate animals quickly after shouldering the rifle
• Track running hogs and coyotes
• Keep multiple animals in the sight picture
• Maintain awareness around large sounders
• Hunt feeders, timber edges and smaller fields
• Transition between close and distant targets

Digital magnification extends from 2.5× to 15×, with both rapid and smooth zoom options. Because the E6 starts with a 640×512 sensor, it retains more usable detail as digital magnification is increased than a lower-resolution thermal scope.

The combination of 2.5× base magnification, 640 resolution and a wide field of view makes the E6 a true mixed-terrain thermal—not a narrow-view optic designed exclusively for long-distance shooting.

Sub-18mK MicroTherm 18 Sensor

The ETHOS E6’s MicroTherm 18 Sensor carries a NETD rating below 18mK, allowing it to distinguish extremely small temperature differences within the scene.

That sensitivity can improve separation between animals and their surroundings during:

• High humidity
• Warm nighttime temperatures
• Light precipitation
• Rapid weather changes
• Other low-contrast thermal conditions

WAVE’s TrueView Image Algorithm processes the thermal information to create smoother contrast, cleaner edges and a more natural-looking image.

The result is a scope designed to show more than a bright heat signature. It helps hunters interpret the animal, terrain and surrounding environment with greater confidence.

44mm X-WAVE Germanium Lens

The ETHOS E6 pairs its premium 640 sensor with WAVE’s large 44mm X-WAVE germanium objective lens.

The high-purity, high-transmission design is engineered to deliver more usable infrared energy to the sensor than smaller objective systems. That gives the MicroTherm 18 sensor more information to process, helping produce stronger contrast and better detail in real hunting conditions.

WAVE rates the ETHOS E6 for heat detection at distances up to 2,900 yards under favorable conditions.

Detection means recognizing that a heat source is present. Positive identification and practical shooting distance will be considerably shorter and will depend on the animal, weather, terrain, focus and the shooter’s experience.

DeadEye Integrated Laser Rangefinder

Estimating distance through a thermal scope can be difficult because darkness removes many of the visual references hunters normally use. The integrated DeadEye Laser provides immediate distance information without requiring a separate handheld rangefinder.

The dual-channel system separates the laser emitter and receiver into two individual apertures. It is incorporated directly into the objective housing and aligned closely with the optic’s centerline, creating a streamlined design without a bulky external LRF module hanging from the side of the scope.

A dedicated laser control provides quick access to ranging when an animal appears.

The Class 1 rangefinder is rated for distances up to 1,300 yards on suitable reflective targets. Actual ranging performance on animals will depend on target size, reflectivity, angle, weather and atmospheric conditions.

Automatic Ballistic Correction

Once the target is ranged, the ETHOS E6’s onboard ballistic system calculates the shot solution and displays a secondary aiming point for the measured distance.

Instead of obtaining a range and then estimating holdover, the shooter receives an updated aiming reference inside the scope. This is especially valuable when coyotes or hogs appear at unpredictable distances across large fields.

The ETHOS E6 can save up to five firearm profiles, including custom caliber labels and zero distances. This makes it possible to configure the scope for multiple rifles and retain their individual zero information.

Every ballistic profile should still be confirmed through live fire with the exact rifle, ammunition and muzzle velocity being used. Automatic ballistics is a valuable shooting aid, but it does not replace proper zeroing and verification.

1600×1200 ViewMax Display

The internal ViewMax Display features a 1600×1200 resolution with WAVE’s wide-field viewing technology.

The large display complements the E6’s expansive field of view and creates a more immersive sight picture. While display resolution does not add detail to the thermal sensor itself, it can provide cleaner menus, smoother reticle edges and a more comfortable viewing experience.

Adjustable display brightness allows the image to be toned down during extended nighttime use.

Available thermal palettes include:

• White Hot
• Black Hot
• Red
• Green
• Golden
• Violet

The ETHOS E6 also includes Picture-in-Picture, Hot Tracking and Outline Mode for hunters who want additional options for locating and monitoring animals.

Simple Controls for Nighttime Operation

The ETHOS platform is designed around straightforward controls that can be operated in complete darkness.

A primary rotary control provides fast magnification changes and menu navigation, while the simplified button arrangement keeps frequently used functions within easy reach. Raised controls are easier to locate by feel, even while wearing gloves.

WAVE’s GloveGrip Focus places a tall, tactile focus control on top of the objective housing. This ambidextrous design can be reached from either side and adjusted using a small two-finger movement instead of rotating a traditional objective focus collar.

The result is faster focus adjustment with less movement while maintaining your shooting position.

Traditional 30mm Tube-Style Design

The ETHOS E6 uses a traditional 30mm scope tube, allowing it to mount and handle more like a conventional riflescope.

This design works well on AR-platform rifles, bolt-action hunting rifles and dedicated nighttime predator setups. It also gives hunters flexibility when selecting ring height and positioning the scope for proper eye relief and cheek weld.

The rugged housing measures 13 inches long and weighs 36 ounces without the battery. Threaded interchangeable eyecups allow the shooter to choose between a compact rubber bumper and an extended rubber eyecup.

Recording, Wi-Fi and Media Management

The ETHOS E6 can capture photos, video and optional audio directly through the scope.

Recoil-activated recording can automatically capture the action when the rifle fires, while adjustable sensitivity allows the feature to be matched to the rifle and ammunition. Photos and videos can also be viewed and deleted directly through the scope.

Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with the WAVE Infrared mobile app provide supported functions such as:

• Live video streaming
• Transferring photos and videos
• Managing recorded media
• Controlling supported device functions

The scope can also receive external power through its USB-C connection.

Reticle and Zeroing Options

The ETHOS E6 provides a wide selection of aiming configurations, including:

• Nine reticle designs
• No-reticle viewing option
• Black or white reticle colors
• Reticle polarity reversal
• Four illuminated center-dot designs
• Red, blue or green center-dot illumination
• Front-focal-style or second-focal-style reticle behavior
• Five saved firearm profiles
• Custom caliber and zero-distance labels

These options allow the scope to be configured for different rifles, ammunition and hunting applications.

Relentless Runtime Battery System

The ETHOS E6 operates on one commercially available protected 26650 rechargeable battery, providing an expected runtime of approximately 10 hours under normal conditions.

Unlike a permanently installed internal battery, the field-swappable design allows a depleted battery to be replaced immediately. The battery compartment can also accept a protected 18650 battery when used with the included adapter sleeve.

Automatic shutdown can be set for 30, 60 or 90 minutes to help conserve power between encounters. The feature can also be turned off.

Actual runtime will vary according to temperature, recording, Wi-Fi use, display brightness and battery condition.

Built for Serious Hunting Conditions

The WAVE ETHOS E6 LRF is designed for demanding nighttime hunting conditions with:

• Rugged metal construction
• IP67 waterproof rating
• Nitrogen-purged optical system
• 6,000-joule recoil rating
• Approximately five-second startup
• Adjustable automatic shutdown
• External USB-C power compatibility
• Five-year transferable warranty

ETHOS E6 LRF vs. ETHOS E3 LRF

Both ETHOS models share the same tube-style platform, 44mm objective lens, integrated rangefinder, automatic ballistics, display resolution and battery system. The main differences are thermal resolution, magnification, field of view and price.

Choose the ETHOS E6 LRF if you want greater identification detail, a significantly wider field of view and more usable image quality while applying digital zoom.

Choose the ETHOS E3 LRF if its 384 sensor and higher 3.5× starting magnification fit your normal hunting distances and you would rather save $1,000.

Who Should Buy the WAVE ETHOS E6 LRF?

The ETHOS E6 LRF is an excellent choice for:

• Hog hunters dealing with moving sounders
• Coyote hunters working fields and mixed terrain
• Hunters who want premium 640-resolution detail
• Shooters who prefer a wider starting field of view
• Hunters who frequently use digital magnification
• Buyers who want an integrated LRF and ballistic calculator
• Farmers and property owners managing hogs and predators after dark
• Hunters who prefer the mounting flexibility of a traditional riflescope

Hunters focused almost entirely on extreme-distance shooting may prefer a scope with higher native magnification and a larger 50mm or 60mm objective lens.

Buyers who primarily hunt at predictable distances and do not need 640-level detail should consider the lower-priced WAVE ETHOS E3 LRF.

Key Features

• 640×512 thermal sensor
• 12-micron pixel pitch
• Sub-18mK thermal sensitivity
• 50 Hz refresh rate
• 44mm X-WAVE germanium objective lens
• 2.5× native magnification
• 2.5× to 15× digital magnification
• Rapid and smooth zoom options
• 670-foot field of view at 1,000 yards
• 1600×1200 ViewMax display
• Detection range up to 2,900 yards
• Integrated DeadEye laser rangefinder
• Ranging capability up to 1,300 yards
• Automatic ballistic correction
• Dedicated rangefinder control
• Ambidextrous GloveGrip top focus
• Up to five firearm profiles
• Picture-in-Picture
• Hot Tracking and Outline Mode
• Photo, video and optional audio recording
• Recoil-activated recording
• Wi-Fi and WAVE Infrared app connectivity
• External USB-C power compatibility
• Approximately five-second startup
• Approximately 10-hour battery life
• 26650 and adapted 18650 battery compatibility
• IP67 waterproof rating
• 6,000-joule recoil rating
• Five-year transferable warranty

Technical Specifications

Five-Year Transferable Warranty

The WAVE ETHOS E6 LRF is protected by WAVE’s 5T five-year transferable warranty.

Unlike warranties that only protect the original purchaser, the remaining coverage stays with the scope if ownership changes during the warranty period. That protection adds long-term value whether you plan to keep the ETHOS for years or eventually trade it toward another optic.

Buy the WAVE ETHOS E6 LRF from Southern Precision Outdoors

Southern Precision Outdoors is a locally owned thermal and night vision dealer in Middle Georgia. We do more than sell optics—we use this equipment in the field and help customers choose the right scope based on their terrain, normal shooting distance, rifle and budget.

The WAVE ETHOS E6 LRF Thermal Scope combines premium 640-resolution imaging, sub-18mK thermal sensitivity, a wide 2.5× starting view, integrated laser rangefinding and automatic ballistic correction at a highly competitive $2,999 price.

Have questions or want to compare the ETHOS E6 with another thermal scope? Contact Shane at Southern Precision Outdoors at 678-630-9758.

Looking to upgrade? Ask about the Southern Precision Outdoors thermal trade-in program and put the value of your current optic toward your next setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the WAVE ETHOS E6 LRF good for hog hunting?

Yes. Its 2.5× native magnification, wide field of view and 640×512 sensor make it especially well suited for locating and tracking moving hogs or keeping multiple animals in view.

Is the ETHOS E6 good for coyote hunting?

Yes. The 640 sensor provides strong target detail, while the integrated rangefinder and automatic ballistics help when coyotes appear at unpredictable distances.

How far can the ETHOS E6 detect an animal?

WAVE rates the ETHOS E6 for heat detection at distances up to 2,900 yards under favorable conditions. Positive identification and practical shooting distance will be considerably shorter.

How far does the ETHOS E6 rangefinder work?

The Class 1 DeadEye Laser is rated for distances up to 1,300 yards on suitable reflective targets. Actual performance on animals will vary with the target and atmospheric conditions.

Does the ETHOS E6 have a ballistic calculator?

Yes. The onboard ballistic system uses the measured distance and saved firearm information to calculate the correction and display a secondary aiming point.

What battery does the ETHOS E6 use?

The scope uses one protected 26650 rechargeable battery and provides approximately 10 hours of expected runtime. It can also use a protected 18650 battery with the included adapter sleeve.

Does the ETHOS E6 use standard scope rings?

Yes. The ETHOS E6 has a traditional 30mm scope tube and is designed to mount using compatible 30mm rings.

What is the difference between the ETHOS E6 and ETHOS E3?

The E6 has a higher-resolution 640×512 sensor, lower 2.5× base magnification and much wider field of view. The E3 uses a 384×288 sensor with a higher 3.5× base magnification and costs $1,000 less.

Is the WAVE warranty transferable?

Yes. The ETHOS E6 is covered by WAVE’s five-year transferable warranty, meaning the remaining coverage can stay with the optic if it is sold to another owner.

Export of night vision/thermal equipment and optical sighting equipment is controlled by the U.S. Department of State Office of Defense Trade Controls, in accordance with International Traffic in Arms (ITAR), Title 22, Code of Federal Regulations Part 120-130 and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) U.S. Department of Commerce. Please see below for more information.