New Pulsar Helion 2 XQ thermal imaging scopes

It would be natural to look at the Pulsar Helion 2 XQ introduced today and simply pass it as a minor restyling, with a different design of the housing and naming, very similar to the previous generation Helion entry models. Instead – and the “2” in the name should be a very strong hint – we are looking at a completely redesigned and new model, that actually shares little from last year’s optical instrument. 

The Pulsar Helion 2 XQ features a completely redesigned housing, with many stylish elements taken from the Axiom design.

The new Helion 2 XQ integrates the same second-generation technology for the sensor and thermal processing engine of Pulsar’s latest thermal imaging achievements, with high sensibility 40 mK NETD uncooled microbolometer and improved image processor. The resolution is a standard 384x288 pixel, that is enhanced by quick 50Hz frame rate, superior sensitivity of the Amorphous Silicon microbolometer, Image Boost processing technology and excellent, superfast F:1.0 Germanium objective lens elements optics.

The new Helion 2 XQ line is available in two models, differing only by the fixed objective focal lengths and therefore magnification: the Helion 2 XQ38F with a 35mm/3x magnification, and Helion 2 XQ50F with 50mm/4.5x; native magnification can be digitally zoomed up to 12x and 18x respectively.

The Helion 2 XQ thermal imager also benefits from all the improvements that Pulsar’s second generation architecture brough to the market, starting from the 40 mK NETD sensors and general upgrades to the processing engine.

Improved optics and sensibility means enhanced detection range, with 1350 and 1800 meters to detect a 170 cm tall live object respectively for the Helion 2 XQ38F and XQ50F. All upgrades introduced with Generation 2 of Pulsar’s thermal imaging architecture are obviously present in the Helion 2 XQ: 16GB video recording memory, WIFI connectivity with Stream Vision app support, reduced startup time, AMOLED full color, HD resolution EVF and redesigned eyepiece optics, and extended operation time of 9 hours with a single charge of the field replaceable IPS7 proprietary Li-Ion battery.

Last but not least, the body design: reminiscent of the style introduced for the first time on the Axion super compact thermal monocular, the Helion 2 XQ reprises its sleek magnesium alloy metal housing with a dimpled finish and high grip rubber panels; weight is between 450 and 500 g depending on the lens.

MSRP is 2290 euro for the Helion 2 XQ38F, and 2490 euro for the Helion 2 XQ50F – there may be small variations from region to region due to EU different VAT.

For more informaton please visit the Pulsar website.