Thermion 2 LRF XG50 Features
The Thermion 2 LRF XG50 has all the great features of the Thermion 2 plus laser range finding capability. You get the quality Pulsar is known for, including great image quality, log battery life, video and audio recording and ease of use.
Laser Range Finder
The laser range finder can accurately range objects out to 800+ yards. You can point and scan or set the scope for continuous scan mode. The LRF is housed in a small module on top of the objective lens and only adds a couple of ounces to the scope. The LRF control button is conveniently located on top of the eye piece for easy access.
When you scan, a new scanning reticle appears in place of the normal shooting reticle and the small picture-in-picture window pops up on screen with the shooting reticle. You use the scanning reticle to cover the object you want to scan and push the scan button for the distance. You have a few seconds to repeatedly scan before the shooting reticle reappears on the main screen.
If you are in continuous scan mode, the scope is scanning all the time at the location the scanning reticle is pointed. You have to use the small picture-in-picture to aim and shoot.
For Thermion LRF models, the focus can be adjusted by turning a knob on either the left or right side of the LRF module on the front of the scope. The power button is also located at the rear of the the LRF module. The button that is used for power on top of the eye piece on non-LRF Thermions is used for the LRF operation on the LRF XG50.
10 Hours Of Battery Life
The Thermion 2 LRF XG50 is powered with two rechargeable batteries: one built-in with a capacity of 4.9 Ah, the other replaceable with a capacity of 2 Ah. A single charge will give you up to 10 hours of battery life, which is about twice the run time of the original Thermion. Ten hours of battery life may be cut shorter in very cold weather.
The external battery can be changed while the scope is on and running so you do not have to power down to change batteries. The scope can also be powered with an external auxiliary power source through the cable port. Additional batteries with 2 or 3Ah are available at extra cost of about $75 each.
“Picture-in-picture” Mode
The “Picture-in-picture” function enables the shooter to display a small magnified image for precise aiming in the top of the screen. Taking only 10% of the total display area, the frame shows a magnified image of the target and reticle and allows the user to closely see a magnified image in the aiming area and have visual control of the entire field of view at the same time.
On this LRF model, the small window is also used for aiming while the LRF function is used. When you range an object, the reticle in the main screen disappears when the LFF button is pushed. The reticle returns after LRF ranging is complete. When running in continuous mode, aiming must be done with the small window.
This is one of the few things I wish Pulsar would change so either window can be used for aiming while ranging a target. The LRF reticle is a small distance away from the reticle so it would not interfere with aiming.
5 Individual Shooting Profiles
Like all Pulsar Thermion scopes, the LRF XG50 has five profiles so it could be use on up to 5 different rifles. Each profile can hold up to ten zeroing distances. Each of those profiles can have different settings for reticle shape, color palette, zero or any other function. All of these settings are saved for each profile.
10 Reticle Shapes in 9 Colors
The Thermion 2 LRF XG50 has ten reticle configurations and functions (direct shot type, ballistic, scalable and regular), all available in nine colors. A new orange color reticle has become my favorite because it works well in white hot or black hot. It is so easy to see, I have changed from my old standby of green to the new, easier to see, orange color.
If you run one of the dynamic reticles in conjunction with the range finder, you can use the hash marks of the reticle for holdover at any magnification level.
8 Color Palettes
A choice of 8 color palettes lets the user choose the best option for conditions or just to relieve eye strain. You can optimize the unit for specific tasks as well as react to changing observation conditions. White Hot, Black Hot and Red Hot are optimal for object detection, Rainbow and Ultramarine help increase chances for recognition & identification. Red Monochrome, Sepia and Violet are most suitable for long observation in the night.
Of course, everyone is different, but I am sure you will find a color/shape/palette configuration you will like.
3 Sensitivity Amplification Levels
The Thermion 2 LRF XG50 has three sensitivity levels; normal, high, and ultra. The level (or mode) can be changed to match the conditions during the hunt. These different levels of signal amplification and fine brightness and contrast adjustments, give the hunter the best viewing mode for changes in hunting conditions or types of terrain.
The level is displayed on the bottom of the screen and can be quickly changed using the quick menu. Each of the levels can be adjusted for different brightness and contrast levels.
Durable Magnesium Construction
The new Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 is also incredibly durable, with a rugged design that is built to withstand the harsh conditions of the hunting and shooting environment. The riflescope is made from high-quality magnesium, which provides a high level of strength and durability. It is also IPX7 weather-resistant, with a waterproof and shockproof design that ensures that it will continue to perform even in extreme weather conditions.
WiFi & Stream Vision Apt
The built-in WiFi module will connect the device with smartphones based on Android and iOS via the Stream Vision 2 mobile application. Use it to download photos and videos or watch the action live on a connected device. Share the hunt with a friend or make changes to your scope from your phone.
Sitting on a stand waiting for hogs to come to a feeder? Aim your rifle at the feeder and then sit back and monitor with your phone until the action begins. You will find numerous ways to use this feature.
The Stream Vision App also lets you wirelessly update your Thermion 2 LRF XG50 software. Users registered in the application are provided with cloud storage space for photos and videos taken with a digital or thermal imaging device.
LRF Stream Vision Ballistics Software
LRF Stream Vision Ballistics Software from Pulsar is coming soon. Just point and push a button to instantly range your target and get the distance displayed right on the screen. Not only that, but Pulsar has announced the Stream Vision Ballistics software that actually plots the aiming point for the target.
Stream Vision Ballistics can be paired with supported Pulsar riflescopes (LRF models) via Bluetooth. The app uses personalized algorithms for accurate ballistics calculations.
Once you create a profile and upload it to your thermal riflescope, you can now disconnect the device from the app. Now the calculations are done by the scope itself. After measuring the range, the suggested point of aim will be displayed on the scope’s screen. It will stay there until the next measurement of distance.
This new feature will be enabled via the upcoming firmware update for all Thermion LRF riflescopes, starting with the Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro. While the Thermion 2 LRF XG50 and Thermion 2 LRF XQ50 Pro will be added to the list in the near future.
Hunting With The Thermion 2 LRF XG50
After testing the two scopes side by side, the answer to the Big Question is YES! The image of the LRF XG50 is as good as the XP50 Pro.
The image of the Thermion 2 LRF XG50 is as good or maybe better because you can see more detail of the target animal, and the detail of the background is not bad either. One may be better than the other in different weather conditions, but on a good thermal night, they are both great. The videos above shows you a good image, but the image in the scope is even better. You will be very pleased with the image quality.
Hunting with The Thermion 2 LRF XG50 is totally enjoyable. There are no “I wish my scope had" thoughts going through your mind. I think it has the perfect magnification range, a superior image and with all the features of a Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF, you can hardly ask for more.
The image is almost “3-dimensional”. At ranges of 100 yards and in, you see hair, wet feet, ticks, the shape of the animal head and body. A hog does not look flat. The scope’s image lets you see the curves and shapes that you do not see with ordinary scopes. This excellent image and larger image in the display lets you identify animals at longer range and make longer shots.
The LRF XG50 does not have quite the background detail as the XP50 Pro, but I think it is plenty good for me, and I am picky about details at night. I hate noise on the screen or smoothed over backgrounds.
The LRF XG50 also re-calibrates the image more often, especially during warm up, but I just let it warm up and kept the scope on between stands so it did not bother me.
Lastly, because it is a 3X base magnification, the focus is a little more critical than scopes with less magnification.
Only 1 Complaint
I wish the primary shooting reticle did not disappear when the LRF is being used. Maybe that could be changed in a future software update.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 is a state-of-the-art thermal imaging riflescope that provides hunters with an exceptional hunting experience. With its new thermal imaging technology, LRF capability and the perfect 3X base magnification, it is truly the all-round thermal scope. Coyote hunters and hog hunters alike will love this scope.
Of course, Pulsar’s intuitive user interface, and rugged, weather-resistant design will provide the hunter ease of use and years of service. Whether you are a seasoned night hunter or a beginner, the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 is the perfect choice for anyone who loves the adventure of night hunting.
Specifications
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Microbolometer resolution: 640×480
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Frame Rate: 50Hz
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Pixel pitch: 12 Micron
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NETD: <40mK
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Display resolution: 1024×768
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FOV: 50ft @100 yds
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Display type: AMOLED
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Objective lens: F50/1.0
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Magnification: 3-24x
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Detector type: Uncooled ASi
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Detection range: 1900 yds
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LRF Range: 800 Yards
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Battery type: 4.9 A·h (internal), Dual Li-Ion B-Pack Mini Power System: 2 A·h Changeable (external)
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Battery life: 10 hours
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Dimensions: 16.5 x 3 x 3.7in
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Body material: Magnesium alloy
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Weight: 34.2oz
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Warranty: 3 years
To purchase a new Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50, call Jason or Hans at Outdoor Legacy at (877)350-1818. He will answer all your questions and make sure you get the right scope for your hunting needs.
For the latest news about Night Vision Optics, subscribe to the most informative show on Youtube, the Late Night Vision Show. Hosts Jason Roberts and Joel Miller will keep you up to date on Night Vision Optics and entertain you with some great hunting videos.
Also please visit our featured Youtube channels Outdoor Legacy on Youtube, HansETX, and The Old Deer Hunters for great hunting videos and thermal optic reviews.