The Pulsar Oryx LRF XG35 and the Axion 2 LRF XG35 are similar
in size, though the Oryx is considerably slimmer, easier to hold and
operate, especially for left-handed users.
The new Pulsar Oryx LRF XG35 was launched earlier this year at the IWA in Europe. It replaces the highly popular Axion 2 LRF XG35, which was Pulsar’s premium compact laser rangefinder thermal monocular. The Oryx, therefore, has large boots to fill.
Shape and ergonomics
The Oryx is slimmer than the Axion 2 LRF, with the laser rangefinder now built into the front of the device. Its hand strap can be fitted on either side for ambidextrous use.
The control layout is as follows:
• Focus is now controlled by a very smooth and precise wheel that is in front of the eyepiece.
• The Menu button is situated at the back of the three-button control panel. It has small buttons on each side for selecting features and changing values. The left button also controls image amplification and swaps image polarity. The right button controls magnification and enables Picture-in-Picture.
• The middle button controls the laser ranger finder.
• The front button controls video and stills recording.
• The On/Off button is in front of the control panel.
All buttons are set below the top profile of the Oryx to prevent accidental activation.
1500m Laser rangefinder
The laser rangefinder ranges to 1500 metres. My initial test on a warm, sunny day ranged a bush at 719m. Later, under cloudy conditions, I ranged a hedgerow at 1496m. Though these long distances may not always be needed, this rangefinder will perform better in adverse conditions.
New features
These features were not available on the Axion 2 LRF:
- Image stabilization. This feature is currently only available on the high-end Pulsar Merger LRF XT50 and is a very welcome addition. It works extremely well, especially on higher magnifications.
- Internal back-up battery. Powered by a high-capacity quick-change APS-5 European made Li-ion battery that is very easy to remove and replace. The device remains on while changing battery and provides an operation time of up to 12 hours.
- Proximity sensor. Activates sleep mode when removed from the eye and starts-up immediately when returned to the viewing position, extending battery life and prevents light spill from the eyepiece at night.
- Belt clip. I am not sure how well this works yet, but it is easy to remove. I prefer a neck strap.
A new powerful and accurate 1500m laser range finder is an advantage.
I was able to range a hedgerow at 1496m in cloudy conditions.
Existing features
- Lynred ATTO640-02 sensor. Ultra-reliable and proven 640×480 / 12 μm / 50Hz, producing a system NETD <20mK and manufactured in France by Lynred.
- Precision ground F35mm f1.0 lens. A well proven lens that delivers excellent image quality.
- Magnesium alloy body. Very strong and solid with outstanding internal heat sinking.
- Magnetic lens cap holder. The lens cap fixes to the hand-strap with an inbuilt magnet.
- IP67 waterproof. Same as IPX7 waterproof rating (when battery is installed) and common on all Pulsar devices.
- All other operational features and imaging functions. The Oryx LRF has the same operational features as other Pulsar thermals.
I may have missed few things because I didn’t have a manual available at the time of writing. Looking through the device, the image is bright, clear and highly detailed, typical for a Pulsar thermal.
The new Pulsar Oryx LRF XG35 retails for NZ$4,599, which is exactly $1000 less than the Pulsar Axion 2 LRF XG35 and yet, the Oryx simply blows its predecessor out of the water for features and functionality.
Pulsar product prices have fallen since the establishment of a second factory in Latvia, due to increased manufacturing capacity, while maintaining high quality standards. The Oryx LRF is manufactured in Vilnius.
What it is good for
It has a very good field-of-view (21.9m @ 100m) due to its 35mm lens and 640×480 sensor, lending itself to optimum performance at short to medium distances. The Oryx LRF has a human detection range of 1800m and good spatial resolution. It is ideal for general hunting and stalking in reasonably good conditions and has a powerful, accurate laser rangefinder.
What it is not good for
Long distance viewing requires a longer focus lens, 50mm for example. If you are scanning hillsides in wide open country, the Oryx would not be the best choice. If weather conditions are poor, or animals are obscured by long grass or foliage, all 12μm sensors will not have sufficient penetration. In these conditions, a Pulsar Merger LRF XP35 with its 640×480 / 17μm sensor is far superior.
Finally
Despite the Oryx’s fine looks and finish, this European made thermal is built like a tank and will provide many years of decent service. I still have Pulsar thermals that are 10 years old that still work fine. In our throw-away society, it is good to know that your investment is a good one.
I am taking this Pulsar Oryx LRF out for the roar and will hopefully bag a deer, a pig, or knowing my luck, nowt! But I’ll give it my best shot anyway.
Watch out for future articles in The Fishing Paper and Hunting News.
