At the beginning of 2023, Pulsar has announced and soon released the Merger LRF XL50 thermal imaging binoculars, using a sensor with a resolution of 1024x768 pixels. Back then we expected that this sensor will be used in subsequent devices would only be a matter of time: especially taking into account the latest market trends and the fact that the competing manufacturers - InfiRay Outdoor and ATN - already offer sights with a 1280x1024 pixel matrix (RICO RS75 and ThOR 5 XD).
The made in Europe Lynred sensor with a resolution of 1024x768 pixels (pixel size of 12 µm) has just been implemented into a popular line of scopes equipped with a laser rangefinder. The new model is called the Thermion 2 LRF XL50 and once it hits the stores, it will immediately become the flagship Pulsar product in this category of thermal imaging devices. Although its thermal sensitivity is "only" 35 mK, advanced algorithms and the F50/1.0 lens are also responsible for good image quality.
Due to the characteristics of the sensor and the optics used, the new thermal imager has a basic optical magnification of 1.75x (with the possibility to digitally increase it to 14x) and provides a field of view of 14x10.5° (24.6x18.4m at 100m). The image is displayed on an AMOLED screen with a resolution of 1024x768 pixels with a refresh rate of 50 Hz. The total detection range was specified at 2300 meters (the type of object was not specified, but usually this distance is given for the silhouette of an adult deer).
The Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50 is equipped with numerous additional functions that can be found in top-class thermal imaging devices. The user is provided with an LRF module with a range of 800 meters as well as a photo and video recorder with a capacity of 64 GB . The new model has memory space for 10 shooting profiles, has a feature of storing data for up to 100 different shooting ranges and use calculations of a ballistic calculator. The reticle and image parameters can be adjusted to individual preferences of the shooter. The sight also supports wireless connectivity (Bluetooth and WiFi) that are used to connect to a phone or a tablet (Android and iOS), but also with a remote control included in the set.
Like the other devices in this series, the Thermion 2 LRF XL50 also uses a dual power source: a built-in 4900 mAh battery and an additional, replaceable one with a capacity of 2000 mAh. The scope operating time of up to 10 hours can be further extended by using an external source connected via the USB-C interface.
The design of Thermion thermal imaging sights allows for mounting on weapons using standard 30 mm mounting rings. The device is made of a high-quality aluminum alloy and weighs 1030 grams and is adapted for use on rifles using 9.3x64, .30-06, .300, .375H&H caliber ammunition and other generating similar recoil . It is also resistant to the adverse effects of water in the high IPX7 standard.
At the moment, the price of the new Thermion 2 LRF XL50 sight is not confirmed. However, taking into account the cost of the Merger LRF XL50 thermal imaging binoculars using a similar sensor, it can be expected to exceed 6,700 EUR.
Source: Pulsar-NV
