• Excellent for observing a range of different sized mammals from hedgehogs to red deer.
• Excellent for monitoring den boxes and bird boxes out to approximately 30m
• Good for observing large sized birds at close to medium range (e.g. geese)
• Good for observing medium sized birds at closer ranges (e.g. blackbirds)
• More challenging to use for observing small mammals (e.g. mice, bats) and small birds (e.g. robin). Although the scope is capable of picking up smaller heat signals, the image clarity appears poorest for small species. If you want a scope that observe smaller animals with greater clarity, consider the Axion 2 XG35.

The XM30F is the best option for anybody looking for an entry level thermal monocular. It utilises a 320×240 and 12µm core thermal sensor, which affords a greater resolution than most other entry level monoculars can currently offer. The NETD value is <50mK and this sufficient for most purposes, but you may want to consider a more advanced model if you are looking for small differences in temperature.

The detection range for the XM30F is 1300m, the base magnification is 3x, it has a digital zoom of up to 12x, and the 30mm lens offers a field of view 7.8°. These are good optics for an entry level monocular. 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 XM30F comes with the same great features as the other Axions. 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 528х400, which is saved on an internal 16GB memory. We found in practice that the quality of the picture on the XM30F is better when looking through the viewfinder than what you will see on recorded clips, so you may need to consider more advanced models such as the Axion XG35 or Helion and Telos if you want to use this for primarily recording.

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 APS3 battery can power the monocular for approximately 7 hours of continuous use.

The Axion XM30F comes with a three year warranty, the rechargeable battery comes with one year.