Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 Review

Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 Review. Looking for a high-performance thermal rifle scope with laser range finding capability? Look no further than the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50, a new addition to the Thermion line of scopes for 2023.

The Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 boasts a number of improvements over its predecessor, the original Thermion XG50. For starters, it features a brand new 12-micron Lynred thermal sensor, which delivers improved image quality and overall performance compared to the BAE sensor used in the original. Plus, it comes equipped with laser range finding capability and Stream Vision Ballistics software (coming soon), which allows the shooter to plot the aiming point for the target.

One of the standout features of the Thermion 2 LRF XG50 is its 3-24X magnification range, making it ideal for coyote hunters who need to take longer shots. But it’s also great for hog hunters, with a wide field of view of 46 feet at 100 yards. And for all hunters, the LRF is a valuable tool for accurately judging distance in low-light conditions.

Compared to the Thermion 2 XP50 Pro, the main differences are the magnification range and the type of thermal sensor used. The XP50 Pro has a magnification range of 2-16X with a 17-micron <25 MKv sensor, while the Thermion 2 LRF XG50 has a 12-micron <40 MKv sensor. Both scopes offer excellent image quality in this price range of under $6,000, but the XP50 Pro may have a slight edge in bad weather conditions thanks to its better heat separation capability.

The XP50 Pro has a magnification range of 2-16X with a 17-micoron <25 MKv sensor. The Thermion 2 LRF XG50 has a magnification range of 3-24X with a 12-micron <40 MKv sensor. I compared these scopes side by side, and both have about the best image available in this price range of under $6000.

The Big Question everyone has “Is the XG50 image quality as good as the XP50?”

The Thermion 2 XP50 Pro has a little better heat separation capability so the image may be a little better in bad weather. The Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 has a 12-micron sensor that makes the animal appear larger in the screen with more detail. Lets take a look side by side and see how they compare in the video below.

3x Base Magnification
640×480 Thermal Sensor
12 Micron Sensor
Laser Range Finder
50hz Refresh Rate
Internal Video/Audio Recording
Auto/Semi-Auto Calibration
Digital Zoom To 24X

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 Thermion 2 LRF XG50 boasts an impressive laser range finder that can accurately range objects beyond 800 yards. The scope allows for both point-and-scan or continuous scan mode, with the LRF module situated on top of the objective lens and adding only a few ounces to the overall weight. Conveniently located atop the eye piece, the LRF control button enables easy access.

While scanning, the normal shooting reticle is replaced with a new scanning reticle, and a small picture-in-picture window pops up on screen with the shooting reticle. The scanning reticle is used to cover the object to be scanned, and a distance reading is obtained by pushing the scan button. A few seconds are available for repeated scanning before the shooting reticle reappears.

With the “Picture-in-picture” mode, the shooter can display a small magnified image in the top of the screen for precise aiming. The frame shows a magnified image of the target and reticle and allows the user to have visual control of the entire field of view at the same time. However, on this LRF model, the small window is also used for aiming while the LRF function is used. The reticle in the main screen disappears when the LRF button is pushed, and the reticle returns after LRF ranging is complete.

The Thermion 2 LRF XG50 is powered with two rechargeable batteries, one built-in with a capacity of 4.9 Ah and the other replaceable with a capacity of 2 Ah. The battery life can last up to 10 hours on a single charge, but it may be shortened in very cold weather. The external battery can be changed while the scope is on and running, and the scope can also be powered with an external auxiliary power source through the cable port.

This scope has five individual shooting profiles, each capable of holding up to ten zeroing distances and having different settings for reticle shape, color palette, zero, or any other function. With ten reticle shapes available in nine colors, the shooter has options for the best color/shape/palette configuration. A choice of eight color palettes optimizes the unit for specific tasks and conditions or to relieve eye strain.

The Thermion 2 LRF XG50 has three sensitivity levels: normal, high, and ultra, that can be adjusted to match the conditions during the hunt. The level is displayed at 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. Overall, this scope is packed with features that will surely appeal to any hunter.

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 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

Pulsar’s upcoming LRF Stream Vision Ballistics Software simplifies the task of ranging your target by allowing you to point and push a button to instantly get the distance displayed on your screen. Moreover, Pulsar has introduced the Stream Vision Ballistics software that works with supported Pulsar riflescopes (LRF models) via Bluetooth to calculate personalized algorithms for accurate ballistics calculations.

Once you create a profile and upload it to your thermal riflescope, the device can now disconnect from the app. The scope itself will perform the calculations after measuring the range, and the suggested point of aim will be displayed on the scope’s screen. The suggested point of aim will remain on the screen until the next measurement of distance.

Pulsar plans to release the new feature via firmware update for all Thermion LRF riflescopes, with the Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro being the first to receive it. The Thermion 2 LRF XG50 and Thermion 2 LRF XQ50 Pro will be added to the list soon.

Hunting With The Thermion 2 LRF XG50

Having tested both scopes side by side, the answer to the “Big Question” is a resounding YES! The image quality of the LRF XG50 is on par with the XP50 Pro, if not better.

In fact, the image quality is so good that you can easily see more details of the target animal. Check out the video above to see for yourself. Although one scope may perform better than the other in certain weather conditions, both are great for thermal night hunting. The LRF XG50’s image quality is almost three-dimensional, allowing you to see curves and shapes that are not visible with most thermal scopes.

The Thermion 2 LRF XG50 is a joy to use for hunting. It has the perfect magnification range, a superior image, and all the features you would expect from a Pulsar Thermion 2. You won’t find yourself wishing for anything else. You can identify animals at long ranges and make longer shots thanks to the excellent image and larger display.

The only downside of the LRF XG50 is that it does not have quite the same level of background detail as the XP50 Pro. However, the level of detail is still more than sufficient for most hunters. Additionally, the scope re-calibrates the image more frequently, particularly during warm-up. But this did not bother me since I let it warm up and kept the scope on between stands.

Finally, because of its 3X base magnification, the focus is more critical than scopes with less magnification. However, this is a minor issue and doesn’t detract from the overall performance of the LRF XG50.

Only 1 Complaint

My only complaint while hunting was the operating the range finder. I ranged a cow at about 175 yards away with maybe 10-15% of the LRF reticle above the cow. The first reading was of the woods behind the cow. At that range the LRF reticle was almost as large as the cow. From that time on, I was very careful not to allow any background inside the LRF reticle. I also wish the reticle did not disappear when the LRF is being used. I think that could be changed with a 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 professional or a beginner, the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XG50 is the perfect choice for anyone who loves the adventure of night hunting.

Specifications

Microbolometer resolution: 640×480
Frame Rate: 50Hz
Pixel pitch: 12 Micron
NETD: <40mK
Display resolution: 1024×768
FOV: 50ft @100 yds
Display type: AMOLED
Objective lens: F50/1.0
Magnification: 3-24x
Detector type: Uncooled ASi
Detection range: 1900 yds
LRF Range: 800 Yards
Battery type: 4.9 A·h (internal), Dual Li-Ion B-Pack Mini Power System: 2 A·h Changeable (external)
Battery life: 10 hours
Dimensions: 16.5 x 3 x 3.7in
Body material: Magnesium alloy
Weight: 34.2oz
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.

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