Get ready to explore a detailed analysis of the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 Thermal Rifle Scope, meticulously reviewed by an active hunter who’s been testing this device several times a week. Providing you a unique perspective as a shooter, the reviewer has provided a plethora of thermal footage showing different animal species at various distances. This isn’t just another mundane “how to use” tutorial.
The reviewer’s association with Pulsar’s European Pro Staff Team doesn’t deter him from giving an honest assessment of the product, even involving constructive criticism where necessary. Discover how the scope performs under real hunting situations, its battery life, sensor resolution, and effectiveness at different magnifications. The detailed discussion covers every aspect from startup time, brightness adjustment, and even the device’s Wi-Fi function.
Table of Contents
Review Methodology
Detailed Explanation of How the Review was Conducted
As a part of the Pulsar European Pro Staff team, this review was based on real usage in hunting situations over several months. This isn’t a how-to video, but rather my personal impressions and experiences as an actual user of the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 thermal rifle scope. The review will include actual thermal footage of various animal species at different distances for you to assess its performance.
Number of Hunting Situations the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 Thermal Rifle Scope was Used in
Being an avid hunter, I have used this scope multiple times a week for several months in real hunting situations. These scenarios ranged from foggy and humid conditions, which are ideal for testing the effectiveness of this thermal rifle scope, to clear night hunting expeditions.
Total Number of Weeks the Scope was Tested
The Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 was rigorously tested over a span of two months, providing ample time to assess its performance and features across different environments and hunting situations.
Basic Features
Discussion on the Magnification of the Scope
The XG50 comes with a base magnification of three times which is great for close-range shootings. This feature, combined with its impressive sensor resolution, makes the XG50 a desirable pick for both short-range and long-range shootings.
Sensor Resolution Details
The XG50 is packed with a sensor resolution of 640×480 and a 12 Micron pixel pitch Lin red sensor, providing clear and sharp images. The sensor’s quality plays a critical role in enhancing target visibility, making hunting more efficient and effective.
Definition of ‘Hybrid Scope’ and Discussion on Why the XG50 is Considered as Such
I’ve referred to the XG50 as a ‘hybrid scope’ because it excels in both close-range and long-range shooting. Whether you’re hunting fast-moving targets such as pigs at close quarters, or smaller game like foxes and coyotes at a distance, the XG50 is able to deliver excellent results in both scenarios.
Comparison between the XG50 and the XP50 in Terms of Base Magnification
While the XG50 has a slightly higher base magnification than the XP50, they perform equally well in the field. Both are capable thermal rifle scopes, but if you’re regularly faced with hunting small game at significant distances, the XG50 would serve as a closer companion due to its higher base magnification.
Performance in Various Conditions
Image Quality in Poor Conditions
Despite not having as good an overall image as the XP50 in poor conditions, the XG50 nonetheless provided adequate target definition and identification, facilitating successful shots in less than perfect conditions. Its effectiveness persisted even in challenging weather phenomena like fog and humidity.
The Use of the Scope in Foggy or Humid Conditions
While the XG50 doesn’t match the resilience of the XP50 in foggy or humid settings, it’s still entirely usable and doesn’t deter one from hunting in these conditions. The visuals might require more frequent calibrating, but the high-quality imagery persists in spite of these challenges.
Standout Color and Thermal Tones of the Scope
One thing that stands out about the XG50 is its excellent color and thermal tones, with target animals appearing clear and sharp. This vivid coloring makes for an improved hunting experience, rendering target identification and tracking more effective.
The Scope’s Warming Time
The XG50 exhibits a warming up phase during the first minute of use, after which the image settles and does not degrade as quickly. Although these warming needs may require more frequent calibrations in poor conditions, this is a minor compromise given the scope’s overall performance.
Device Usability
Form Factor of the Thermions
The form factor of the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 is perfect for all-day carry. Its compact design allows it to effortlessly fit on your rifle, whilst its quick-access menu and adjustable brightness and contrast settings ensure that the scope is always at your fingertips.
Features that Can be Adjusted for the User’s Convenience
Users are able to adjust the brightness and contrast of the XG50’s image, providing maximum customization to suit their personal preferences and environmental conditions. This feature allows an effective hunting experience tailored to the user’s liking.
Start-up Time of the Device
Startup time is swift and efficient, minimizing any delay that may disrupt your preparation for a hunt. This quick-start feature allows you to focus more on your surroundings and less on your equipment.
Detailed Description of the Quick-Access Menu
One of the reasons why I appreciate the XG50 is its quick-access menu. Easily accessible via the side wheel button, it offers a clear, intuitive interface that lets you navigate through different settings in an unobtrusive manner. From adjusting visual controls to tweaking detection features, the user-friendly menu allows for effortless customization.
Additional Features
Functional Capabilities of the Laser Rangefinder (LRF)
The XG50 comes with a mounted Laser Rangefinder (LRF) that can read up to 1000 meters. This feature is a significant advantage if you’re executing long-range shots as it allows for precise distance measurement to targets.
Maximum Range the LRF can Read on the XG50
The LRF on the XG50 can read up to 1000 meters. This is an impressive range and it opens up opportunities for successful long-range hunting, ensuring your aim is accurate regardless of how far away your target may be.
The Ability to Record Both Video and Audio on the Device
This excellent scope extends beyond just sights– it is capable of recording both audio and video. You can store vivid thermal-footage of your hunt, creating memorable hunting experiences. This feature integrates technology and hunting, providing a modern touch to the traditional activity.
Video and Audio Recording Quality
Video resolution on the XG50 matches that of the eyepiece, ensuring clear and high-quality recordings. The ability to record all device information in a video is an added benefit. However, the audio quality didn’t match the excellence of the video, and was considered sub-par in tests.
Battery Performance
Tested Battery Life
The XG50 had a good battery life during the tests, the internal removable battery is rated for seven hours of use and the external battery for two hours.
Comparison between the Internal Removable Battery and the Provided External Battery
In comparison to the provided external battery, the internal removable battery in the XG50 has a longer lifespan. However, using both batteries in conjunction extends the usage time, allowing for longer hunting expeditions without the need for recharging.
Options Available for Larger Batteries
There’s also an option of getting a larger battery, a feature any hunter would appreciate for those long stakeouts waiting for the perfect shot.
Connectivity Features
Performance Evaluation of the Wi-Fi Feature
The Wi-Fi function on the XG50 performed impressively during testing. The ability to connect and share your hunting experiences with others on the go can bring a whole new dimension to your hunting experiences.
Compatible with 2.4 Gigahertz and 5 Gigahertz
It’s important to note that the Wi-Fi feature on the XG50 is efficient with both 2.4 gigahertz and 5 gigahertz, ensuring top performance and compatibility with various devices.
Purchase Recommendations
Advice on Purchasing the XG50 in Australia
If you’re in Australia and interested in purchasing the XG50, I recommend reaching out to Ben at Hunt the Night for the best deals. He’s a reliable provider of thermal scopes and offers competitive pricing on well-known and supported brands.
The Benefit of Using a High-Quality Scope Mount
One suggestion for enhancing your hunting experience with the XG50 is to invest in a high-quality scope mount. A sturdy and reliable mount goes a long way in ensuring stability during a hunt and enhancing the overall performance of the scope.
Price Comparison between the XG50 and XP50 Pro
While the XG50 and XP50 Pro have similar features, the XG50 is slightly cheaper. The cost of the XG50 in Australia is around $7,400, which is a good catch considering its impressive performance and features.
The Reviewer’s Final Thoughts
Overall Satisfaction of the Reviewer
As a member of the Pulsar European Pro Staff team and a rigorous user of the XG50, I am incredibly satisfied with the device. Its excellent capabilities and advanced features offer genuine value for the price tag. I received this unit for testing, but based on its performance, I would willingly purchase this thermal scope myself.
Confirmation of the Reviewer’s Affiliation with Pulsar European Pro Staff
In the spirit of transparency, I’d like to confirm my affiliation with Pulsar as a part of their European Pro Staff team. However, I assure you that this affiliation has not influenced the honesty of my review. I believe in the quality and performance of the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50, and I believe it is a game-changer for hunters everywhere.
The Reviewer’s Willingness to Purchase the Device Despite Getting it for Free
Despite receiving the XG50 for free for testing, I am impressed enough with its performance to purchase it with my own money. The device’s functionality, versatility, and overall performance make it a worthy investment for any serious hunters looking for an edge in the field.
Conclusion
Final thoughts about the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 Thermal Rifle Scope
The Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 delivers an excellent performance, boasting a variety of superior features and options that streamline any hunting experience. Its blend of advanced technology and traditional usability make it the ideal scope for the modern hunter. Its capabilities in various conditions and environments, coupled with the laser rangefinder, video and audio recording, quick-access menu, and robust battery make it unrivaled in its class.
Potential buyers the reviewer suggests the scope to
This thermal rifle scope would serve hunters of different game well and prove to be effective in various hunting settings. Whether you’re pursuing small game over a considerable distance, or dealing with close-range, fast-moving targets, the XG50 is built to handle it all.
Acknowledgment of Pulsar and Extravision’s support
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Pulsar in Europe and Extravision in Australia for providing the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 for testing. Without their support, this comprehensive review would not have been possible.
