Having a thermal-imagining monocular at hand can solve a lot of problems. They are excellent at spotting and tracking game, as well as detecting other hunters in the field. Their typical cost, however, makes it hard for many to commit to a purchase, particularly if it will only see limited use. And lugging a heavy optic makes little sense if you may only need it for a few minutes of the hunt. For these reasons, Pulsar created the Axion 2 XQ35 Pro, a lightweight, relatively low-cost thermal device that makes an excellent companion for any outdoor endeavor.
Thermal-imaging technology utilizes an array of lasers shot through a germanium lens to detect and measure heat signatures. In real-time, the unit processes this information through an onboard computer and creates an image that is displayed on a rectangular viewfinder. Although complex in nature, Pulsar’s Axion 2 manages to pack all the necessary circuitry into a housing that is roughly the size of a laser rangefinder and weighs less than a pound. Its minuscule weight is attributed to its magnesium-alloy construction, which is, fortunately, becoming ever more popular.
When considering specifications, the most significant aspect of a thermal is its sensor’s resolution. This tiny handheld utilizes a 384x288 pixel Lynred chip, which places it within the upper-mid tier of today’s technology; as the ratio suggests, it displays a rectangular image. Battery life is another important consideration, as what good is even the best monocular if you can’t get through a single outing with it? The XQ35 Pro runs using a replaceable lithium-ion battery pack that is charged through the monocular’s USB-C port. Pulsar claims a battery life of 11 hours and sells additional battery packs on its website, as well as a dual charging station, if you desire.
Given the relative reasonability of its price tag, our testers were impressed with the Axion 2’s feature set. A base magnification of 2X can be stepped up to 8X with the press of a button, or there is the option of running a magnified picture-in-picture window within the viewfinder. Adding to its value, this monocular also has the ability to stream its display to a smartphone or tablet, affording multiple users a view of whatever it is being pointed at.
During our testing, we were able to verify the unit’s battery life rating, getting through two evenings without the need to charge. During these excursions, we viewed wildlife in both woodland and open settings with excellent results. We were able to detect life at distances in excess of 1,000 yards and could confidently identify small game within 250 yards. Handling was excellent, as the Axion 2 includes a hand strap that also captures the magnified lens cap; this removes any pendulum effect it might have. Our only gripes came from left-handed users, as the strap wasn’t reversible. The button layout was instinctual and tactile while being effortless to understand. A series of long or short presses navigate the menus, which are plainly explained by industry-standard icons. Focusing the display and target image is done manually via their respective ocular and objective rings, which was fast and foolproof.
Pulsar’s Axion 2 XQ35 Pro proved to be a handy thermal monocular that performs well above its entry-level MSRP. Being able to slip this into a pack and forget about it makes it an excellent addition to any outdoor kit, whether firearm-related or not. Testers commented on the optic’s utility in a hiking setting, as it could help you avoid predators or reconnect with the rest of your party should you get separated. Whatever your journey, knowing what is around you will always increase your odds of success, and the Axion 2 is light and handy enough to always have on you.
