IP rating (water rating)
A two-part code for how well the device keeps out dust and water. IP67 means dust-tight and survives a short dunk; an X means not tested.
What it means
IP stands for ingress protection, a rating from an international standard. The first digit is for dust and other solids, from 0 to 6, where 6 means dust-tight. The second digit is for water, from 0 to 8:
- 4: splashing water from any direction.
- 5 and 6: water jets, light and powerful.
- 7: short immersion, typically up to about 1 meter for 30 minutes.
- 8: longer or deeper immersion, on terms the maker sets.
An X in place of a digit means that part was not tested. IPX7 means rated for immersion, with no dust rating claimed. Most thermals on this site are IP67; a good share are IPX7.
What it changes in the field
For a hunter, the rating is about rain, snow, a drop in a stock tank or a creek crossing, and the fine dust of a dry pasture. IP67 or IPX7 covers anything most hunters will put a device through. A unit with no rating may still be well sealed; the maker just hasn’t claimed it.
What it does not cover
- Fogging. Carrying a cold device into a warm truck or house can cause condensation on the lens. Let it warm up in a closed case or bag.
- Battery doors and charging ports. The rating usually assumes covers are closed and seals are clean.
- Wear. Seals age, and a dropped unit may not keep its rating.
- Whether the warranty covers water damage. Read the terms.
What to look for
IP67 or IPX7 for hunting in wet country. Some night vision housings cite military test standards instead of an IP code; those are not directly comparable. “Water resistant” with no rating tells you little.
How we use it on this site
We show the maker’s rating or “Not rated”. It is not scored.