Before Pulsar designed the Merger LRF, bi-ocular thermal imagers were squarish, clunky looking devices that wouldn’t look out of place in a sci-fi movie. The Merger LRF delivers an attractive and very practical alternative.
This isn’t the first time that Pulsar designed a device in the form of a traditional optic. It began with the Pulsar Thermion riflescope. The Thermion was the first thermal riflescope to have the aesthetics and mounting advantages of a daylight riflescope. The Thermion is a favourite with Kiwi hunters and pest controllers. It is also widely copied by Chinese manufactures, though only the appearance is the same, not the technology and componentry.
Pulsar Merger LRF
Introduced in early 2022, the Merger LRF XP50 become an instant success with hunters and professionals alike. Worldwide demand exceeded supply, but those who waited were rewarded with a product that looks and feels ‘just right’ yet offers next level performance and functionality. New Zealand Police ordered multiple units, as have Coastguard, DOC and others.
Looks and handling aside, a principal advantage of a Pulsar Merger LRF is less eye fatigue and better image acuity. Viewing with both eyes is more comfortable and enables the brain to collect information from sources. Eye fatigue is worse at night especially during prolonged observation. Like all Pulsar thermals, the Merger LRF has several colour palettes and fine image adjustments to suit various ambient lighting and weather conditions. My favourite colour setting at night is either Red Monochrome or Sepia, with the brightness set low. Once I’ve spotted something, a quick toggle to Black-Hot presents an image with finer detail.
The Merger LRF is focused using a precise ring on the left-hand barrel, which contains the germanium lens, sensor and electronics, whilst the right-hand barrel contains a 1000m single-channel laser rangefinder. On my first night out with the Merger LRF, I was very impressed when I measured a bush at 962m. Distance measurement varies with heat, humidity and ability to hold the device still.
Two rows of three buttons on top of the Merger LRF controls on/off, menu, magnification, image polarity, recording and the laser rangefinder. Initially, I kept pressing the wrong buttons but soon got the hang of it. It pays to become familiar with your device before taking it into the field, and, dare I say it, read the manual!
One often unmentioned feature that I simply adore is a proximity sensor next to the eyepiece. When the Merger LRF is moved away from the face, the display automatically enters sleep mode and instantly turns back on when viewing again. This is a brilliant feature for saving batteries and remaining invisible. This function can be deselected when recording for remote viewing on a mount or tripod.
All Pulsar Merger LRF’s have identical functionality and build quality. Three models are available with different Lynred sensors.
