I have also been using a combination of handheld thermal and a PVS 14 NV monocular. In my case I have found that I prefer using an IR laser vs. a dedicated scope, but that has limitations in range. There are a lot of options in terms of configuration. My main piece of advice for you is to try and get your hands on different equipment and configurations that you can test in the field, because part of the solution that is right for you is going to depend on the gun/s you're using, your shooting technique/set up, and even your eyes (if you wear glasses then a head mount may be problematic). I sometimes mount my PVS 14 on a scope and use an IR spotlight in longer range situations, for example, but I don't own a dedicated NV or thermals scope for that purpose. Mostly I have an NV hands free/head mount that I have modified so I can have both NV and thermal mounted - even simultaneously, which leaves my hands free. Currently I'm experimenting with a way to use an S&W 460xvr w/red dot for closer ranges, but that has required a custom blast can and other approaches for keeping the blast from triggering NV auto shut off - still a work in progress. I also hunt almost exclusively with suppressed rifles, so that is another variable that may be different for your situation. These are all examples of the importance of doing research and finding opportunities to test before you buy!