Pulsar Axion 2 XG35

The Axion 2 series of thermal monoculars build on the success of their predecessors to offer a powerful handheld monocular suited to detailed wildlife work. The Axion series of monoculars all appear very similar, however the thermal specifications of these monoculars are very different and each is suited to a particular purpose and budget.

We’ve tested the Axion 2 XG35 in a range of different wildlife monitoring scenarios and found that it is:

• Excellent for observing a range of different sized mammals from bats to red deer
• Excellent for monitoring den boxes and bird boxes out to approximately 50m
• Good for observing large sized birds from close to medium-long range (e.g. geese)
• Good for observing medium sized birds at close-medium ranges (e.g. blackbirds)
• Good for small mammals at close range
• More challenging to use at longer ranges exceeding 1500m. Consider the XP50 Pro for longer range observation

The XG35 is Pulsar's most advanced addition to the Axion series so far. It features a 640×480 and 12µm core thermal sensor, which offers twice the resolution of more basic models and produces a very detailed thermal picture. The NETD value is <40mK which is good for identifying small differences in temperature, however for very detailed wildlife work you may want to consider the more advanced Helion XP50 Pro and Telos XP50 models.

The detection range for the XG35 is 1750m, the base magnification is 3x, it has a digital zoom of up to 20x, and the 35mm lens offers a field of view 12.5°. Altogether these optics offer a very clear picture when looking through the viewfinder, and the wider FOV is particularly helpful when panning or following moving animals. The detection distance is particularly impressive and previously this was only possible with the most advanced models. In practice, however, the working detection range is likely to be lower in most circumstances. For larger mammals in good weather conditions, the stated detection ranges are accurate. For smaller heat signatures, in more cluttered environments or in poorer weather conditions, the useful working distance is closer to a few hundred metres.

The Axion 2 XG35 comes with the same great features as its predecessors. The start-up is instant, meaning you can quickly use it when in the field. It has a Picture in Picture function which allows you to zoom in on a secondary image on the screen whilst still maintaining your field of view. It comes with the standard 8 thermal colour pallets.

It can record video at a resolution of 1024x768, which is saved on an internal 16GB memory. Unlike other Axion models the viewfinder and video resolution match on the XG35, so there is no drop-off in the quality of recorded footage.

It has a WiFi module that allows you to view a livestream from the camera and adjust its settings on the free Stream Vision 2 app. 

The lightweight, ultra compact and rugged magnesium alloy housing makes it easy to carry around in any standard-sized pocket and its ergonomic design means it will fit perfectly in your hand. The IPX7 waterproof rating protects the device from snow, heavy rainfall or other precipitation. It can even survive water submersion up to 1m for 30 minutes.

Its easily interchangeable APS5 battery can power the monocular for approximately 7 hours of continuous use.

The Axion 2 XG35 comes with a three year warranty, the rechargeable battery comes with one year.

The video below demonstrates the quality you can expect from recordings taken with the Pulsar Axion 2 XG35. These clips were all captured by NatureSpy staff.

Unlike other Axion models, the XG35 features the same recording resolution as the display resolution and so what you see through the viewfinder matches what is seen on the recordings.

Ease of use

The Axion 2 XG35 is an easy to use, handheld thermal monocular. When you need to use it, it turns on instantly - perfect for wildlife spotting. You can get up to speed and comfortable with its use within seconds.

It has a WiFi element that allows you to connect to on your smartphone or tablet using the free Stream Vision 2 app. The app shows you a live feed from the camera and allows you to change the settings as well as record videos and take pictures remotely (up to 10m). Viewing on a screen is great for minimising eyestrain (which can develop when looking through the viewfinder for extended periods) and is great for group viewing.

Using the supplied adapter it can be mounted on a tripod, which is great for minimising strain and handshake.

The Axion 2 XG35 is extremely small and lightweight - weighing about 250g - so light you barely notice it when not using it, and great for leaving around your neck or in a jacket pocket. It has lens covers attached so you don't need to worry about scratching them, and the body is made from a rugged magnesium alloy.

It's has an IPX7 rating so you can use it whatever the weather without any concern.

The APS5 power system uses miniature power elements to provide approximately 7 hours of continuous operation and can be quickly replaced. APS5 mini batteries charge quickly either in the unit connected by a USB or via the included charger station.

Warranty: The Axion 2 XG35 comes with a three year warranty, the rechargeable battery comes with one year. All handled in house by NatureSpy.