Optically Speaking August 2025 Ants Corke
lighter than it predecessor, the Pulsar Quantum XQ19.
An old friend returns in fancy new clothing.
The new Pulsar Axion XQ19 Compact is the latest addition to the Pulsar thermal imaging range. Launched at the end of last month, it is the lowest price thermal monocular in the Pulsar range but has a proven specification that was popularised by one of its illustrious predecessors, the highly popular Pulsar Quantum XQ19, that was launched in 2015.
The Pulsar’s XQ19 designation means that the sensor has a resolution of 384×288 / 17μm and an objective lens with a 19mm focal length. This combination produces a very wide field-of-view that is ideal for walking and spotting animals at night and for stalking in bush and forestry. I spent many hours walking with a Quantum XQ19 and used one from a helicopter, so can vouch for its effectiveness.
of advanced features as all current Pulsar models, including
streaming, recording and firmware updates.
2015; Feral pig eradication on Farewell Spit
I used a Quantum XQ19 from a helicopter during a DOC pig eradication operation on Farewell Spit. Its ability to see through foliage proved invaluable for spotting feral pigs that were hiding in dense thicket, enabling me to direct the pilot to flush the pigs into open clearings so that they could be shot. It was a real game change because most of the pigs would have remained invisible without the Quantum.
This same Pulsar Quantum XQ19 is now ten years old and carries the scars of heavy use but still works as well as new. Pulsar’s reputation for quality and product longevity is well proven.
well as new.
The Axion XQ19 Compact
The new Pulsar Axion XQ19 Compact is the latest thermal offering by Pulsar, providing the same field-of-view as the original Quantum XQ19, but now with higher specifications, video recording and streaming, and at a considerably lower price.
Back in 2015, Pulsar was a relatively small manufacturer who outsourced many product components but have since massively expanded their manufacturing capability with new factories in Lithuania, Latvia and Poland. Most components are now made inhouse which enables Pulsar to offer their products at a much better price.
The original Pulsar Quantum XQ19 had retailed for $4299.00, while the new Axion XQ19 Compact retails for $1899.00. The new Axion is packed with performance and features that simply leaves the old Quantum XQ19 in its wake. It is also considerably smaller and lighter.
All four Axion Compact models have the same operational features, magnesium alloy body and control layout. The only differences between each model are either lens or sensor. The XQ19 and XQ30 models feature a Lynred PICO384, whilst the XG30 and XG35 models feature a Lynred ATTO640/12μ sensor.
What it’s good for
The new Pulsar Axion XQ19 Compact excels at closer distances, due to its very wide field-of-view that enables rapid spotting of animals without the need to scan back and forth. It is also suitable for walking at night, marine navigation and mist, rain and fog penetration. Is the smallest of the Axion models but still boasts a human detection range of over 700m which is more than enough for general purpose use.
What it’s not good for
Its wide field-of-view means that the pixels in its sensor are spread out over a wider distance, therefore reducing spatial resolution. This is not a problem at closer distances, say up to a few hundred metres, but if longer distances or situations where higher resolution is required, the Pulsar Axion XG30 and XG35 are better options, though cost more.
Pulsar describe the Axion XQ19 Compact as an entry level thermal due to its low price and resolution. However, if most of your hunting is in bush, forest and farmland, it may be all that you need, as well as providing you with many years of reliable service.
