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Finding the best pulsar thermal scope is a challenging task. We will share the top-recommended options available today.
Since its discovery, thermal scopes have become a necessity for hunters. So it is no surprise that Pulsar, a leading maker of quality optics, developed cutting-edge technology for their thermal measurements.
Some of the top thermal scopes available are from Pulsar. There are many options, so we wanted to give our readers a thorough analysis of some of the top models.
Top 5 Best Pulsar Thermal Rifle Scopes
Here are the best options:
1) Pulsar Thermion XM50 Thermal Riflescope
The 1024768 HD AMOLED display on the Pulsar Thermion XM50 Thermal Riflescope offers sharp image quality. It has a 30 mm tube diameter, a sensor resolution of 340240 pixels, and a magnification range of 5.5 to 22 times.
Additionally, it has a heat-detection range of up to 2,500 yards and an integrated recording that records your hunting adventure with each shot you fire.
This riflescope also comes with the Transmit Vision app, which lets you stream live video from your optic to any smart device. Additionally, it has a long battery life and 13 distinct reticle choices that allow you to tailor every aspect of your shooting.
The included stadia metric rangefinder in this Pulsar thermal scope measures the distances between your targets and allows you to calculate each shot precisely. To save time switching between firearms, it also remembers your settings for up to five rifle profiles and fifty-zero saves.
Pros
- Different color schemes
- Excellent image clarity
- Options for a customizable reticle
- Modern technology with long battery life and IPX67 certification
Cons
- A little heavy with a small field of vision
2) Pulsar Thermion XM30 3-13x Thermal
Up to 1,000 yards away, the Pulsar Thermion XM30 3-13x Thermal Riflescope can detect heat signatures. With 13 configurable electronic reticles, eight color palettes, and five rifle profiles with up to 50 zero saves, this thermal scope also provides a personalized hunting adventure.
It also has a color viewer, picture-in-picture mode, 12-pixel pitch core, rock, forest, identification viewing modes, one-shot zero function with freeze function, and other features.
A built-in rebound-activated video feature on this thermal imaging rifle sight records every shot a hunter makes utilizing the recoil of the gun. It offers a stadiametric rangefinder and a high-resolution, readable AMOLED display.
Additionally, it has a 25 mm objective lens diameter, a 320240-pixel sensor resolution, and a 50 Hz refresh rate.
Its body is composed of durable metal, and its lens is made of premium Germanium. It offers a 2x and 4x graduated zoom feature and a 4x e-zoom continuous zoom and is simple to mount on Picatinny and Weaver rail systems.
Pros
- Black-hot and white-hot viewing modes
- One-shot zeroing with the function of freezing
- Three types of viewing
- A refresh rate of 50 Hz
- Feature to fix broken pixels
Cons
- Not a lot of resolution
3) Pulsar Trail LRF XQ50 Thermal Riflescope
The inbuilt laser rangefinder in the Pulsar Trail LRF XQ50 Thermal Riflescope provides precise distance readings up to 1,100 yards. Additionally, it has a heat signature detection range of up to 2,000 yards and an adjustable 13 different digital reticles, user-friendly UI.
The patterns, colors, and brightness of these reticles differ. Picture-in-picture mode and temperature sensor stabilization are additional features of the Pulsar Trail that lower temperature and noise sensitivity.
The picture-in-picture functionality of the Pulsar Trail in the Second Focal Plane (SFP) thermal imaging optic type allows you to aim at your scope’s reticle without sacrificing the field of view.
Additionally, it stores three different zeroing records and profiles on its embedded 8 GB SD card. Additionally, the Pulsar Trail LRF XQ50 Thermal Riflescope has an eight-hour battery life and a 2-inch eye relief.
Pros
- Fluid digital zoom
- Sensor temperature stabilization
- Rated waterproof IPX7
- 384×288 microbolometer resolution and long battery life
Cons
- The answer is low.
- At a distance, the image appears unclear
4) Pulsar Thermion XP50 Thermal Riflescope
The 1,975-yard detection range of the Pulsar Thermion XP50 Thermal Riflescope makes it simpler and more accurate to kill the deer at a distance. It is furnished with an HD AMOLED display that offers high-quality image views, just like the Pulsar Helion XP50.
A second focal plane (SFP), high refresh rate, wide field of view, and ample eye relief are also included. This Pulsar thermal riflescope consists of a full-color picture intensifier and a minimum focus distance of 16 feet.
It has an IP67 waterproof rating and is powered by two B-Pack Mini 18650 Li-Ion batteries with a five-hour runtime. Additionally, it has a detection range of 1,975 yards and an 8x e-zoom with continuous zoom and 2x, 4x, and 8x stepped zoom.
This flexible thermal sight can save 50 zero saves and up to five rifle and firearm profiles without adjusting its settings. Additionally, it has a high refresh rate, a long battery life, and a picture-in-picture mode.
Pros
- Wide detection range
- Increased refresh rate
- Up to 8x e-zoom Wide field of view
- Dependable construction
Cons
- A little costly
- The restricted area of view
5) Pulsar Trail 1.6-12.8×42 LRF XP50 Thermal Riflescope
The Pulsar Trail 1.6-12.8x42mm LRF XP50 Thermal Imaging Riflescope is a cutting-edge thermal scope that can detect heat signatures up to 2,000 yards away. Additionally, it has 13 digital and programmable reticle settings, “white-hot” and “black-hot” viewing modes, a respectable refresh rate, and other features.
The ability to save up to three different rifle profiles and five zero saves on this Pulsar sight makes it simpler to switch out optics for other rifles without adjusting settings. It has a single lithium battery that can power up to 8 hours.
Glass-Nylon Composite, used in the construction of this scope, is strong enough to tolerate adverse environmental conditions.
Pros
- HD AMOLED display with a 17 m pixel pitch.
- A proper refresh rate
- System for recording video Display options in color
Cons
- Pronounced tint
- Turning the focus tube is difficult.
How To Choose The Best Pulsar Thermal Scope: What to Watch Out For
Price
In general, thermal imaging optics cost more than regular daytime or nighttime vision equipment. Additionally, you won’t exactly find anything less expensive than $1,000 because Pulsar optics provide a more sophisticated technology that makes night hunting simpler and more accurate.
But if you’re looking for a less expensive thermal scope for your night hunting expedition, be ready to get a model with a low resolution, fewer functions, and restricted range detection abilities. A savvy consumer is aware that you always get what you pay for.
Magnifications
Magnification is the process of enlarging something. Additionally, it means expanding the seeming size rather than the actual size. It is possible to measure this expansion.
We usually advise hunters to consider their magnification needs before purchasing a Pulsar thermal scope for their hunting adventures. This is important when determining if your optic can display targets at a greater distance.
Long-range hunters typically seek optics with increased magnification and a broad field of view. They are more helpful because they provide them with more transparent target images. For best performance, purchase optics with a wide field of view, a fast refresh rate, and an extensive detection range.
Aiming capacity
The ability to aim a Pulsar scope depends on several elements, including the lens diameter, detection range, wide field of vision, heat detector sensor, and display. Compared to the safe distance the shooter selected to stay, Pulsar optics tout capabilities that can detect targets thousands of yards away.
Lens and reticles
Before purchasing a Pulsar thermal imaging model, you should also consider the lens size, the field of view, lens material, and reticle alternatives. Heat is used in thermal detection, but it also depends on how sharply the objective lens is focused.
For maximum performance, various hunting or shooting applications need distinct specifications. The objective lens diameters offered by Pulsar optics are 19, 38, and 50 mm.
Additionally, they provide shooters with various reticle configurations and reticle designs. Depending on the hunting area, Pulsar’s reticle options, which can be customized to a maximum of 13, come in various colors and patterns that enhance visibility.
Durability
All thermal optics from Pulsar are weatherproof. The Pulsar Trail thermal rifle optics, including the XQ30, are called IPX7, whereas some optics have an IPX6 rating. With these optics, you won’t have to worry about hunting in the rain or dropping it into the water by mistake.
High-quality Germanium is used to make the lenses for the Pulsar optics, which also makes them sturdy and weatherproof. Additionally, they have robust bodies built of top-notch steel that can survive even the worst weather conditions.
Thermal capacity
The thermal capacity of the model you want to purchase should also be considered. Check out the sensor resolution and thermal heat detector. To precisely determine your target’s distance, your detector must be able to detect even the slightest temperature change. Your aim point becomes more accurate due to thermal capacity.
We advise purchasing lenses with 640480 thermal resolution, which is the highest available. The thermal capacity of your scope must line up with its heat-detecting sensor. A more precise aim point and better image clarity are provided by increased resolution. This benefit enables hunters to find their prey even in complete darkness.
Mounting options
There are various rifle positions where Pulsar optics can be mounted. Additionally, they can be mounted to various mounts, including the Prism 14/200 Mount, Weaver Mount, Weaver SQD Mount, and CZ550 Mount. They can also be mounted on the Weaver QD112 Mount, Side Mount, MAK Adapter, and Los/Dovetail Mount.
Depending on the model of the Pulsar, these choices change. Nevertheless, they can all be mounted to the Weaver Mount or regular Picatinny rails. Therefore, if you specifically want to attach Pulsar optics onto various firearms or weapons, you won’t have too much trouble choosing them.
These optics are more adaptable because they can be mounted on standard 30mm scope rings.
Battery life
If you frequently go night hunting, looking for the best thermal scope that lasts at least eight hours is imperative. We advise you to look for optics that include a Li-Ion battery pack because they typically have a powerful life of about eight hours, which is sufficient for a nighttime hunting activity.
These battery types also provide the advantage of being rechargeable, making them superior to optics that utilize conventional and disposable AA batteries. Finding the best thermal scope with an additional battery pack that offers up to 22 hours of continuous battery life is another recommendation from our staff.
Additionally, you can choose lenses that support a USB-rechargeable battery. For outdoor activities, it is more practical to utilize.
FAQs on the Best Pulsar Thermal Scope
1) Do Pulsar thermal scopes cost a lot?
Thermal optics for pulsars are not very pricey. In reality, thermal imaging optics are typically more expensive than other optics, including night-vision goggles or conventional day lenses. It’s pretty reasonable to see Pulsar thermal imaging optics priced a touch pricier than other manufacturers because they use premium body and lens materials.
2) How long are thermal pulsar scopes good for?
After a single charge, a high-quality thermal scope may provide power for almost 8 hours.
3) Is it possible to use a thermal pulsar scope during the day?
Thermal will be helpful whether you are hunting during the day or at night. During the day, you will have better visibility through cover and camouflage, be able to follow a blood trail, and be better able to identify your targets, particularly varmints and smaller animals.
4) What is the thermal scope of a Pulsar’s range?
A detection range of up to 2300 meters, which is unparalleled, is made possible by high-quality germanium optics and a sophisticated thermal imaging sensor, even in total darkness.
5) Are thermal scopes functional at night?
Thermal scopes provide images without the need for visible light to detect radiation. Devices for thermal imaging can be utilized both during the day and at night. The use of thermal imaging enables the detection of animals at large distances since they produce heat and are warmer than their surroundings.
Conclusion
I heartily endorse the new Pulsar Thermion as a fantastic scope. On those hot nights, the XP38’s image quality is difficult to match and about as good as you’ll find. Among other unique characteristics, picture-in-picture capabilities and ranging reticles can facilitate long-range shooting and humane animal killing.
The Thermion makes it simple to record your hunting expeditions on video. The Thermion effectively fulfills all of your requirements for a thermal optic. A Thermion is an obvious choice if you fire a bolt action rifle. It won’t be challenging to mount, unlike most other thermal scopes.