Night hunting game changer - Pulsar Apex XD38A Thermal Rifle Scope

This is my second thermal purchase and I can't say how pleased I am with this scope. I have a FLIR scout 32 monocular which a was using to scan while shooting with a Gen 2+ and Gen 3 night vision scope of which I was pretty satisfied on my nigh hunts however I was getting tired of lugging very heavy rifles (upwards of 12-14 lbs)that included scope and IR light and which became very difficult to scan with. The Pulsar 38A is very light weight and mounted on a savage A17 rifle total weight comes in around 7.5 lbs.

I was looking at the 50A however here in South East it is heavily wooded and I don’t make many shoots beyond 200yrds especially at night. I believe the 50A gave you an additional 300 yds detetion range and was an additional $600 from the 38A price. I’m glad to say the 38A gives me ample detection range at 0-300 yrds and I’m glad that I didn’t spend the extra money.

Comparing the FLIR 32 monocular for detection purposes only, I will state the 38A has a much better detection range and exceptionally better thermal picture, while noting they are relatively the same price. I love the multiple focus options on the 38A and once you get to know the various menus you can scroll through them with ease. The one shot zero function is awesome and using a hand warmer you can easily sight in this scope in daylight. Another item I noted is this scope works much better during the day than the FlIR. The FLIR will bleach out when elevated above level and is too sensitive illuminating heat in trees. On my first day out, after sighting in the scope, I was able to knock down four squirrels in about 5 min at a range of 80-100 yrds. My first night out I took a stationary rabbit at 125 yrds and a red fox on the move at 150 yrds. Both of these critters I was able to easily identify their species at those ranges where I would not have with the FLIR. Also, I see numerous field mice out to 125+ yards where the FLIR does not define animals that small (they get lost in ground clutter). The only con I’ve noted with Pulsar 38A is it goes through batteries rather quickly. I would say a set of fresh batteries will only last about one hour with continuous use. Pulsar has a 20 hour rechargeable battery pack that I on plan on purchasing when they come off back order.

In summary, this scope is an absolute game changer for night predator hunter. Out of the multiple night vision products I have purchased this is by far the lightest and most capable for detection and engagement. Highly recommend.