Pulsar Axion XQ38 VS Pulsar Axion XQ38 LRF | Optics Trade Debates

By Maruša Justinek Oct 15, 2020

Hello and welcome to another episode of Optics Trade debates. In this debate, we are going to talk about the differences between two new Axion models, that is Axion XQ38 and Axion XQ38 LRF. This is the new generation of Pulsar Axion with some differences between the models.

However, we will start this debate off with some similarities. They both have a new 30 mm front objective lens, a 384×288 sensor, a 17 microns pixel size, and 40 NETD (Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference). They have an extremely sensitive sensor; the same one that Helion Gen II will also feature. They have the same display: 1024×768 pixels, and it works all the way down to -25 °C. Both of the two models also have the same controls and they feature a completely new APS5 battery.

If we begin with the superficial differences, we can immediately see that the laser range finding model is much bulkier, due to the laser range finding compartment on the left. It also not as easy to use with the left hand. It is not as ergonomic for left-hand users, and it is 30 g-40 g heavier (Pulsar Axion XQ38 weighs 350 g, and Pulsar Axion XQ38 LRF weighs 380 g).

If we move on to the features, it is obvious that one has a laser range finding compartment, while the other one does not. However, Axion XQ38 has stream vision, and Axion XQ38 LRF lacks it. So, when you are deciding which one to buy, you basically have to decide on which feature you need more. If you need connectivity, then the normal model without the range finding capabilities is better. If you are using your thermal mostly before the shot, then sacrifice the stream vision and gain 1000 m of LRF range.

The LRF model cannot record videos or capture images, and it also does not have Wi-Fi connectivity. For that reason, it does not need a built-in memory. Axion XQ38 on the other hand has 16 GB of internal memory. There is also a 300 € difference in price. Axion XQ38 costs a bit under 2.000€, and Axion XQ38 LRF costs a bit over 2.000 €.

What about the field of use? Mostly hunting, surveillance, security, etc. What is also different is if you use the LRF unit extensively, the battery will die sooner than on the model without the laser, and vice versa if you use video recording and Wi-Fi capabilities on the normal XQ38.

How does fog affect the effectiveness of the laser range finding compartment? The fog limits the maximum detection range, which is around 1400 m on both models. In terms of laser range finding, if there is 1000 m on a clear day/night, the tenser the fog is, the smaller the effective range. That is because the laser will reflect the droplets in the air. This is the same when it is raining.

We hope we covered all the differences, as well as similarities. Check out our other videos, because we have many more comparisons and useful information. Thank you for watching and see you next time. Bye.