Scopes and Optics

Best Pulsar Thermal Scope for Coyote Hunting

Pulsar Thermion XM50 5.5-22x42mm Thermal Rifle Scope

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Are you searching for the best Pulsar thermal scope for Coyote hunting? We will review the top options to help you make an informed purchase.

When looking to hone your coyote hunting skills, you need the best optic to improve your aim. A thermal scope is one of the indispensable optics you should have for coyote hunting.

It will help you acquire targets quickly and deliver precise shots in virtually any hunting environment. Besides, a thermal scope is effective day and night, so you can be sure you will get the most out of it.

7 Best Pulsar Thermal Scope for Coyote Hunting

In this post, we have done our research a compiled a detailed review of the best Pulsar thermal scope for coyote hunting that makes a handy companion for every modern hunter. These scopes are built to be versatile, and it is hard to go wrong with any one of them. Without further ado, let’s jump right in.

1) Pulsar Thermion XM50 5.5-22x42mm Thermal Rifle Scope

Pulsar Thermion XM50 5.5-22x42mm Thermal Rifle Scope

First up is the Thermion XM50 5.5-22x42mm Thermal Rifle Scope. Made with hunters in mind, this thermal scope delivers ultra-clear views of targets with a heat detection range of up to 2,500 yards.

The scope features a variable digital zoom from 5.5x to 22x. With this versatile zoom, you can look for coyotes at varying ranges. Furthermore, an integrated stadia metric rangefinder calculates the distance to the targets so you can take the most precise shot.

This thermal scope boasts 13 reticle options that you can use to customize your shooting experience based on the situation at hand. Additionally, it has 5 rifle profiles and 50 zero saves which save you the hassle of making adjustments every time you switch from one firearm to the other.

Other essential features include a recoil-activated video recording, one shot zero function with a freeze function and picture-in-picture digital zoom.

Features

  • Recoil-activated video recording
  • Crisp clear 1024×768 HD AMOLED display
  • 5 rifle profiles
  • Picture-in-picture digital zoom
  • Stadiametric rangefinder
  • 5-22x magnification

Pros

  • Robust and reliable housing
  • Easy to use
  • Long detection range
  • Multiple reticle options
  • Simple to zero in

Cons

  • Big budget
  • Discontinued by manufacturer

 

 

2) Pulsar Core RXQ30V 1.6-6.4x22mm Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope

Pulsar Core RXQ30V 1.6-6.4x22mm Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope

To enhance every hunt when you step foot in the hunting field, you need a top-notch optic like the Pulsar Core RXQ30V thermal imaging scope. It is a tough and reliable tool that is simple to use and a handy improvement to every hunter’s weapon.

The scope offers outstanding optical clarity in any environment. This is thanks to the ultra-sensitive sensor resolution that detects heat signatures even when the target is behind obstacles. On top of that, it has an illuminated reticle that allows for precision aiming in poor light settings and high-quality optics that generate clear and tack-sharp sight pictures.

With a mere weight of 17.6oz, the unit is lightweight and convenient to carry around in the hunting field. It is operable in temperatures ranging from -25 to 50°C for maximum versatility and has an effective detection range of up to 985 yards.

The scope has a rugged housing that optimizes durability and a matte finish that keeps you inconspicuous when hunting in broad daylight.

Features

  • The second focal plane illuminated the reticle
  • 22mm tube diameter
  • Matte finish
  • Full-color image intensifier
  • 384x288p sensor resolution
  • Fixed 1.6x magnification

Pros

  • Lightweight design
  • Durable make
  • Decent refresh rate
  • Operable in all weather and lighting conditions
  • Great picture quality

Cons

  • Less accommodating eye relief

 

 

3) Pulsar 2-16x Thermion 2 XP50 Thermal Rifle Scope

Pulsar 2-16x Thermion 2 XP50 Thermal Rifle Scope

Next up is the Thermion 2 XP50 Thermal Rifle Scope. It features a true 50mm objective lens that maximizes low light resolution and an upgraded 640×480 microbolometer sensor that detects heat signatures of objects as far as 1968 yards away.

Featuring a variable 2-16x digital magnification, you can use the scope to pursue targets at close to long ranges. In addition to that, you are guaranteed outstanding image quality under any lighting or weather condition, as the scope is fully waterproof and dustproof.

More importantly, the scope has a built-in recording with audio and Wi-Fi connectivity to easily transfer the recorded videos to your smartphone or computer. It also has 16GB built-in memory and a high-capacity battery that provides up to 7 hours of non-stop runtime.

Above all, the Thermion 2 XP50 has 10 reticle options and 8 color palettes that enhance your shooting precision in different light settings.

Features

  • 2-16x digital magnification
  • IPX7 waterproof rating
  • 16GB built-in memory
  • Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Built-in recording with audio
  • Picture-in-picture mode

Pros

  • Incredible battery life
  • Excellent image quality and clarity
  • Long detection range
  • Easy to zero in
  • Ruggedized construction

Cons

  • Slightly heavy
  • Costly

 

 

4) Pulsar Thermion XG50 Thermal Rifle Scope

Pulsar Thermion XG50 Thermal Rifle Scope

The Thermion XG50 Thermal Rifle Scope is your ideal option for long-range hunting. It offers a variable 3-24x zoom power suitable for pursuing a game in virtually any hunting environment and a highly sensitive 640×480 sensor that provides a thermal detection range of 2,400 yards.

The scope brings a picture-in-picture mode that accommodates varmint, hog and big game hunters in nearly any environment. The 50Hz refresh rate guarantees crisp image updates, and with the multiple reticle options, you can customize the scope to suit the situation.

Another impressive feature of the scope is its durable construction. It has an all-metal housing that is rigid enough to take any beating. It is also dustproof and water resistant for operability under any light settings. The scope also comes with a lightweight design, so carrying it around in the field will be convenient.

Features

  • 3-24x variable digital zoom
  • IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating
  • Picture-in-picture digital zoom
  • One shot zeroing with freeze function
  • Stadiametric rangefinder
  • 5 rifle profiles with 50 zero save

Pros

  • Robust metal construction
  • Numerous accessories included
  • External power supply adaptable
  • Long detection range
  • Multiple reticle styles

Cons

  • Poor eye relief
  • Expensive

 

 

5) Pulsar Thermion 2 XQ50 3.5-14x Thermal Rifle Scope

Pulsar Thermion 2 XQ50 3.5-14x Thermal Rifle Scope

Another best Pulsar thermal scope for coyote hunting on our list is the Thermion 2 XQ50. Adding this variable power scope to your optic will help increase your odds of having a successful coyote hunting trip.

Featuring an upgraded 384×288 microbolometer sensor, the scope detects even the most minute heat signatures of objects as far as as 1968 yards away. To complement the massive detection range, the scope also features a high-end optics that deliver crisp image views and a true 50mm objective lens that offers a wide field of view.

When it comes to construction, the scope has a metal housing that is tough enough to stand up to anything nature throws at it. Furthermore, it boasts a long battery life, and you can use it under any weather condition as it is fully waterproof and fog resistant. Above all, this optic features a wide array of reticles with different color options for optimal visibility in various light settings.

Features

  • Image boost technology
  • Variable 3.5-14x digital zoom
  • Picture-in-picture mode
  • IPX7 waterproof rating
  • Recoil-resistant and shockproof construction
  • Full-color, HD AMOLED display
  • Multiple colour-customizable reticles

Pros

  • User-friendly controls
  • Decent refresh rate
  • Long battery life
  • Easy to zero
  • Solid housing

Cons

  • High cost

 

 

6) Pulsar Trail 2 LRF XQ50 Thermal Rifle Scope

Pulsar Trail 2 LRF XQ50 Thermal Rifle Scope

The Trail 2 LRF XQ50 Thermal Rifle Scope offers a detection range that can sense and detect heat signatures of objects as far as 1970 yards. It is simple to operate and comes with virtually every feature required to make your hunting trip successful.

The scope is built to be virtually indestructible. It has a rugged magnesium alloy housing that stands up to heavy recoil, shock and any punishment you subject it to. Besides, the high-end structural rigidity ensures better heat dissipation.

This thermal scope utilizes a NETD 40mK thermal imaging sensor, ensuring perfect target recognition even in harsh weather conditions. In addition, it boasts an image boost technology that optimizes image clarity and an AMOLED display that delivers rich and detailed image perception.

In addition to everything else, the scope has a lightweight design for mobility convenience and a wide-angle field of view that makes the target find a walk in the park.

Features

  • Wide angle eyepiece
  • Built-in laser rangefinder
  • Image boost technology
  • Built-in video recorder
  • 50mm tube diameter
  • Customizable reticle options

Pros

  • Robust and reliable housing
  • Ultra-sensitive thermal imaging sensor
  • Easy to operate
  • HD sight pictures
  • Instant start-up

Cons

  • Pricey

 

 

7) Pulsar Trail 2 LRF XP50 Thermal Rifle Scope

Pulsar Trail 2 LRF XP50 Thermal Rifle Scope

Last is the Pulsar Trail 2 LRF XP50 Thermal Rifle Scope. It is made on a new hardware platform featuring a highly sensitive thermal detector for the ultimate performance day and night.

The scope has multiple reticle patterns in different colors for precision aiming under any light settings. The 50Hz refresh rate ensures quick image update, and with the length 1970 detection range, you will easily find coyotes and other game no matter the field conditions.

In terms of construction, the scope features a glass-nylon composite housing that is waterproof and dustproof for all-weather reliability. It also has a built-in Wi-Fi module that pairs with Android or iOS smartphones and a matte finish that helps reduce glare while hunting during the day.

Features

  • Video and audio recording
  • IPX7 water resistance
  • Matte finish
  • Wi-Fi compatibility
  • Full color image intensifier
  • 50 Hz refresh rate
  • Second focal plane reticle

Pros

  • Multiple reticle types in different colors
  • Long battery life
  • Great image clarity
  • Lightweight design

Cons

  • Smaller field of view
  • Big budget

 

 

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Criteria for Choosing the Best Pulsar Thermal Scope for Coyote Hunting

Battery Life

Thermal scopes run on batteries which have different capacities. Pick a scope that offers a long battery life to get the best out of your hunting expedition.

It should pack a lot of power if you intend to use the scope for taking photos and recording videos. This way, it doesn’t run out of power in the middle of your hunting session. For optimal performance, look for a unit that provides at least 8 hours of non-stop runtime.

Detection Range

The detection range of a thermal scope dictates how far you can detect heat signatures from an object and get clear image views. The best Pulsar thermal scope for coyote hunting provides a long detection range. It will give you the flexibility to look for targets at varying ranges depending on the nature of your hunting environment.

Weight

Portability is one of the most important features in the scope of hunting. In most cases, coyote hunting involves moving from one point to another, looking for game. Ensure you get a unit whose weight will help you do the job effectively.

Refresh Rate

The refresh rate of a thermal scope shows the rate at which the optic refreshes the scene. The higher the refresh rate, the more you can identify targets and keep track of them as they move. Typically, a unit with a refresh rate of 50Hz or more will be ideal for viewing static and mobile targets.

Extra Features

A thermal scope with additional high-tech features will help you achieve the most out of it and make your hunting trip more rewarding. Given the wide array of scopes, try and look for a scope with a smart rangefinder, Wi-Fi compatibility, built-in video recording and multiple reticle patterns, among others.

 

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FAQs on the Best Pulsar Thermal Scope for Coyote Hunting

1) Is a thermal scope necessary for coyote hunting?

Absolutely. A thermal scope is a valuable tool for coyote hunting, given that coyotes are mainly active at night. If money is not an object, investing in a quality thermal scope will revolutionize how you hunt coyotes for the better.

2) Is thermal imaging legal for hunting?

It depends on your state and the restrictions put in place. In most states other than California, thermal scopes are legal to buy and use for hunting.

3) Can a thermal scope see through woods?

No. A thermal scope cannot see through woods or trees. However, if their heat signatures stand out more, it can help you spot people, wild animals and any other heat-emitting object in forested areas.

Conclusion

The best pulsar thermal scope for coyote hunting will depend on your hunting style, need and preference. All 7 scopes listed above offer the essential features a hunter requires to maximise their hunting excursion. Use this guide to find the thermal scope that meets your needs best.

 

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