INTRO/METHOD

Through the years we’ve dabbled in a little wild hog hunting and chased a few coyotes. I would say that going after wild hogs at night has to be one of the most fun types of hunting I’ve done.

When we started, we were like most people. We bought a couple of green light flashlights and mounted them on our rifles. We sat in the stand in the dark and listened for anything that sounded like an animal moving. Then we would try to quietly move the rifle in the direction of said noise and turn on the green light so if it happened to be a pig, we would be ready to shoot.

I’m fairly confident I never killed a hog that way. Even though the green light isn’t supposed to spook them, it always seemed to. The hog always ran off before I could get a shot.

After enough frustration with that, we moved up to digital night vision scopes, and those made a huge difference. Being able to clearly see the hogs without them knowing we were there was a game changer. We’ve killed a few with night vision scopes and have definitely enjoyed them.

But, as with anything, curiosity seems to get the best of me. Being able to look through some different digital thermal scopes at various events gave me the itch to check out a few. So, we borrowed the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50 and took it for a spin.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

The Thermion 2 LRF XL50 is one of the newest, top-of-the-line offerings from Pulsar. This company is very well known for both their digital day and night vision as well as their digital thermal optics and has been since they began producing their first night vision scope over 20 years ago.

Unlike night vision scopes that rely on the use of infrared light for illumination of your target area, thermal scopes produce images from – you guessed it – temperatures (or more accurately infrared radiation). Thermal optics use high-sensitivity sensors to detect temperature differences among the objects in the field of view. The idea is that since living, breathing creatures tend to produce more heat than other things in nature, you can clearly see the presence of an animal, determine if it’s an animal you’d like to take, and make a good shot.

So, what makes the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50 stand out from the others?

KEY FEATURES AND BENEFITS

Well, there are actually a lot of features that make this optic shine above the others.

Thermal Sensor

What sensor does the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50 use?

One of the most important features of a digital thermal optic would obviously be the sensor used. The Thermion 2 LRF XL50 uses a <35 mK NETD sensor. If you’re like me when I first read that, it didn’t mean a whole lot, so let me try to clear it up a bit.

NETD stands for Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference, which tells us the smallest difference in temperature that the sensor will be able to detect. The lower that number (measured in mK) the better – the more sensitive the sensor is, and the clearer the image will be. This is especially true in adverse weather conditions, such as rain or fog, where temperature differences may not be as high. Anything under 40 mK is considered good, so this optic’s sensor definitely has some solid potential.

I was definitely impressed by this thermal sensor one night when I was watching a field just before the start of fall. Some deer came in to feed, and I could easily spot the one buck whose antlers had already lost their velvet. In black hot mode, his antlers were noticeably lighter than the others.

Resolution

In addition to the sensor, the optics resolution will have a huge impact on the clarity of the image you see.

As is the case with most things, thermal optics can vary widely. Just like your television, thermal scopes with higher resolutions are going to produce better quality images. At 1024×768, the Thermion 2 LRF XL50 can produce images similar to a 720p image/video on your TV or computer screen. At over 785,000 pixels, this optic’s display is one of the highest quality you can buy. And, with a pixel pitch of 12µm (again, lower is better), the clarity of the image you see should be even greater.

User Mode Allows for Even Greater Clarity

This optics has what they refer to as “User Mode.” This allows the user to adjust and save settings such as brightness and contrast in order to see the best quality image possible. The nice thing with this is that when settings are saved, the scope will maintain those at next use – so you won’t have to adjust it again.

Detection Range of 2500 yards

This measurement means that an adult-sized object can be detected at up to 2500 yards, which is almost 1.5 miles away – in no light conditions. The identifiable range – meaning the distance where you can tell what it is you’re seeing – is around 1000-1250 yards. So, depending on your level of comfort with longer-range shooting and use of the optic, you could potentially take a shot up from up to 600 yards from your target – in the dark.

Eight Color Palettes

With eight color palettes to choose from, you should be able to find one (or more) that best fit your needs. The Thermion 2 LRF XL50 has three settings that put less strain on your eyes (red monochrome, violet, and sepia) that are ideal if you are using the optic for long-term observation. It also has white hot, black hot, red hot, rainbow, and ultramarine.

You should try it out with different settings to see which one you like best. The rainbow option looks cool, as it most closely resembles the stereotypical thermal image you see in movies. Rainbow, along with red hot, may be best suited for finding game as they may make temperature variations clearer; however, they may not be best for hunting as the reticle may blend in.

Typically hunters use white hot or black hot for a clear target and evident reticle. I like black hot the most because I prefer a red reticle, and red stands out better to me against the black.

Integrated Laser Rangefinder (LRF)

Here is where the LRF in Thermion 2 LRF XL 50 comes in. The integrated laser rangefinder is probably one of the coolest features of this scope. When hunting during the day, it’s easy to pull up your rangefinder, determine the distance of your game, and adjust your elevation knob or hold over accordingly. In the dark, however, it’s not so simple.

Having a rangefinder built into the thermal optic makes taking long-range shots on game much more reasonable. Taking out the guesswork can definitely boost confidence. According to Pulsar, it should be accurate up to 875 yards.

Integrated Ballistic Calculator

As if having an onboard rangefinder wasn’t already cool enough, it also has an integrated ballistic calculator. So, once you input the details of your rifle and load into the Stream Vision Ballistics app and sync with your scope, the calculator does the work. Plus, paired with the LRF, you simply range your target through the scope, and it adjusts your aim point for you. Basically, all guesswork is out the window.

Set Up Multiple Shooter Profiles

And, you can save up to 10 profiles. Let’s say you use one type of ammunition for hunting hogs and another for racoons. You can set up ballistic profiles of each and easily switch between them. You could also set the scope up to be used on different rifles and create profiles for those as well. So, whether you are using different guns for different purposes, or you are sharing the scope with a friend, you should be able to keep everything organized and ready to go.

 Picture In Picture Mode

At first, it took me a little time to get accustomed to picture-in-picture mode, but it has very useful applications. In this mode, the display takes the 10% of the screen where the reticle is and zooms in on it. That function is great because it provides a closer view of the target while still maintaining a larger field of view. Being able to still see the whole picture makes it easier to keep up with what is going on around the target.

Multiple Reticle Options

In addition to the eight color palettes we already mentioned, the LRF XL50 also provides plenty of reticle choices. It has options ranging from just a singular illuminated small cross (looks more like a dot), a circle dot, or a circle dot with lines up to Mil-Dot scalable reticles like are commonly seen on long-range scopes. With 10 choices, you should be able to find one you like. Plus, those reticles can also be used in one of nine different color options.

On Board Internal Memory

This scope is like many other digital optics in that it has the ability to take photos and video. As I mentioned earlier, you can record in 1024×768 resolution video (4:3) so you can have footage from all of your hunts – and it’s super clear!

Plus, the LRF XL50 has 64GB of on board memory. Having internal memory is fantastic so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to put the micro SD card back in your camera after moving files to your computer. I mean, not that I’ve ever done that, but I’ve heard that other people have (yeah right).

One option for transferring and saving the files is that you can plug your scope directly into your computer using the provided USB cable. Once you plug it in, it will appear on your computer as a folder. Just copy and paste or move the files to your desired location from there.

WiFi/Bluetooth (Stream App)

Another pretty awesome option for transferring files is using the Stream Vision App. Once you sync your scope to the app, you can transfer files directly to your phone. Or, you also have the option of saving to 16GB of cloud storage for registered users. They make it easy to view and organize all your photos and videos.

But, the Stream Vision app does a lot more than just store media. This app can also be used to update firmware or software, which is great because that negates the need to download the update to a card and then transfer.

The app can also be used to watch what the scope is seeing in live-time. From that screen, it is possible to record footage and/or take photos. Plus, in addition to media collection, settings of the scope itself can be adjusted on the fly through the app.

Dual Battery System

The Thermion 2 LRF XL50 uses two rechargeable batteries. One is built in with a capacity of 4.9 A-h. The other battery is replaceable. This optic comes with two replaceable batteries – one with a 2 A-h capacity and the other with a 3.2 A-h. When the batteries are fully charged, Pulsar states the expected continuous run time could be up to 10 hours. I’d say that would cover most hunting trips.

But, if the batteries should run down, the engineers over at Pulsar seem to have thought of everything. The batteries are shaped in such a way that they are easy to replace correctly in the dark when you can’t see what you’re doing.

In addition to all those features, here are some specs that I always find good to know.

SPECS

 WHY WOULD YOU BUY?

The Thermion 2 LRF XL50 has a lot of amazing features. If you find yourself with the opportunity to do a lot of night hunting, this scope may be perfect for you. This is especially true if you hunt large fields where long-range shots could be an option. If you are chasings hogs or coyotes that may present a 500 yard shot, the ability to range it right on the scope AND have the scope adjust the aimpoint automatically is pretty awesome. Having multiple color pallets and reticle options is also great because you can customize the scope specifically for your needs.

This scope has some huge positives, but there are some drawbacks as well.

Where to Buy

The Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF Thermal Riflescope with Laser Range Finder is best found in the following options on Amazon

• XL50 – $6,999
• XG50 – $5,499
• XP50 – $5,499
• XQ50 – $3,499

PROS

• Amazing image quality! The high end thermal sensor and resolution provide amazing picture quality – both when using the scope for hunting and in recorded photos and videos.
• Mounts to a rifle using standard 30mm rings – no special mounting solutions needed.
• Multiple choices for thermal color palette, reticle, and reticle color allow for a very customizable optic.
• It has an integrated laser rangefinder with an integrated ballistic calculator built in – taking a TON of guesswork out of aiming point. This is especially helpful with night hunting.
• It has the ability to set up multiple shooting profiles and save settings in User Mode, so adjustments don’t have to be made every time something is changed on the user’s end.
• Internal on board memory – no additional memory cards required.
• Dual rechargeable battery function provides up to 10 hours of run time.
• IPX7 waterproof
• Can be used with multiple calibers – even up to heavy hitters.

CONS

• It is EXPENSIVE. Higher end components lead to higher prices. With an MSRP of almost $8,100.00 and an average retail price of around $7,000.00, this thing ain’t cheap.
• Several states don’t allow hunting with thermal imaging optics, so make sure you check your state’s regulations before you dish out the cash.
• The process of sighting in a thermal optic can be a little tricky at first
• With all the components, the LRF XL50 is a bit bulkier and heavier than alternative options.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I have been very impressed with the Thermion 2 LRF XL50 from Pulsar. The picture is very clear and makes hog and coyote hunting much simpler. I will have to say, though, that for someone who doesn’t have a lot of opportunities to chase these animals at night, this amazing scope could be a bit much. That $8,000 price tag is warranted with all the great features, but if the need for it is only a couple of times a year, and most shots are under 200-300 yards, then one of Pulsar’s less expensive offerings may be more appropriate. If you have a chance to check out this scope, I highly recommend that you do.

FAQ’s

Although answered above, these FAQ’s may help you if you came looking for the answer to a specific question:

What is the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50?

The Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50 is a premium thermal riflescope that integrates long-range detection technology with thermal imaging. It features a built-in laser rangefinder (LRF) and high-resolution sensor, providing hunters with precise distance measurements and thermal vision capabilities in various environmental conditions.

What is the detection range of the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50?

The Thermion 2 LRF XL50 offers a detection range of up to 2,300 meters (around 1.4 miles). This long-range detection makes it ideal for spotting and identifying game even at extreme distances, day or night.

How accurate is the laser rangefinder on the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50?

The built-in laser rangefinder offers an accuracy of ±1 meter (±3.3 feet) at distances up to 800 meters (875 yards), allowing for highly accurate distance measurements to aid in precise shooting.

Does the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50 have video recording capabilities?

Yes, the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50 includes a built-in video recorder and supports photo capture as well. It can record thermal footage in MP4 format and store images on the internal memory, which can be transferred to a device via Wi-Fi.

What kind of battery life can I expect from the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50?

The Thermion 2 LRF XL50 is powered by a dual battery system, which provides up to 10 hours of continuous operation. The primary battery is rechargeable, and there is an additional backup battery to extend usage in the field.

Can the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50 be used in all weather conditions?

As mentioned above – yes, the Thermion 2 LRF XL50 is designed for all-weather use. It is IPX7 waterproof rated, meaning it can withstand heavy rain, snow, and even brief submersion in water. The unit also functions in extreme temperatures, from -25°C to +50°C (-13°F to +122°F).

What mounting options are available for the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50?

The Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50 is designed to be mounted on standard 30mm rifle scope rings, making it compatible with most rifles. It maintains the traditional design of a riflescope, so it integrates seamlessly into standard setups.

What is the magnification range of the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50?

The Thermion 2 LRF XL50 offers a variable magnification range from 3x to 24x, allowing users to zoom in for better target identification and precision aiming.

Is the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50 compatible with smartphones or apps?

Yes, the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50 is compatible with the Stream Vision 2 app, which allows users to view and control the device via their smartphone. This app provides live streaming, remote control, and media sharing capabilities.

Is the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50 compatible with crossbows?

Pulsar thermals are by large, compatible with crossbows.  Not only does the thermal optic work, it works very effectively on a crossbow.