Pulsar Trail 3 LRF XQ50 384 50mm Thermal Scope

How to zero the Pulsar Trail 3

The Pulsar Trail 3 LRF XQ50 thermal scope is part of Pulsar’s newest Trail 3 lineup, built for hunters who want dependable performance, integrated laser rangefinding, and a clean, usable image in real-world conditions. If you’re hunting hogs, coyotes, or handling predator control in mixed terrain, this is a setup that works without overcomplicating things.

At its core is a 384 × 288 thermal sensor with <15 mK NETD, paired with a 50mm F/1.0 germanium lens. In the field, that translates to solid contrast and a stable image where it matters most—inside that 200–400 yard window. The 3.5x base magnification gives you enough reach for identification without feeling too tight when things get closer.

The built-in laser rangefinder is rated out to around 1,200 meters and gives you quick, reliable distance readings when you need them. Whether you’re checking distance on a coyote that won’t stop or confirming range across a field, having that data built into the scope is a real advantage.

One of the biggest selling points on the XQ50 is where it sits in the market. As a thermal scope with rangefinder under $3000, it checks a lot of boxes that typically cost more to get. For hunters trying to stay in that price range without giving up LRF capability, this is one of the better options available right now.

Image is displayed on a 1920 × 1080 AMOLED screen, giving you a sharp, high-contrast picture that’s a noticeable step up from older Trail models. One of the standout updates on the Trail 3 is the new round Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode, which provides a dedicated zoomed-in view while keeping your full field of view visible. It’s a more practical setup than traditional PiP, especially when you’re trying to stay on an animal while still tracking everything around it.

The Trail 3 platform is built around durability and ease of use, featuring a magnesium alloy housing with an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, along with recoil resistance up to 6,000 joules. Controls are laid out in a way that’s easy to operate in the dark without slowing you down.

Power comes from the Pulsar LPS-7i battery system, delivering up to 10 hours of runtime, with USB-C external power support for extended sits or all-night hunts.

Backed by Pulsar’s 5-year warranty (with registration), the Trail 3 LRF XQ50 is a solid option for hunters who want a dependable thermal with a built-in rangefinder—without stepping into higher-end price brackets.

Built for Versatility in the Field

The Trail 3 LRF XQ50 is ideal for hunters who need a thermal that performs well in:

• Wooded or partially obstructed terrain

• Mixed environments with varying visibility

• Short to mid-range hunting scenarios

• Situations where image stability and contrast matter more than maximum range

With an 1800-meter detection range and high-sensitivity sensor, the XQ50 delivers consistent performance where it counts.

Key Features

• 384 × 288 Thermal Sensor

• 17 µm Pixel Pitch

• <15 mK NETD Sensitivity

• 50mm F/1.0 Germanium Lens

• 3.5x – 14x Magnification

• 1800 Meter Detection Range

• Integrated Laser Rangefinder (Up to 1200m / 1300 Yards)

• 1920 × 1080 AMOLED Display

• Round Picture-in-Picture Mode

• Stream Vision 2 & Ballistics Compatible

• 64GB Photo & Video Recording with Audio

• Wi-Fi Connectivity

• Pulsar LPS-7i Battery System (Up to 10 Hours)

• USB-C External Power Capability

• Magnesium Alloy Housing

• IP67 Waterproof & Dustproof

• Recoil Rated up to .375 H&H / 12 Gauge

XR50 vs XQ50 – Which One is Right for You?

• XQ50 (This Model): Designed for short to mid-range hunting in tighter terrain with a 384 sensor and 1800m detection range.

• XR50: Built for long-range performance with a 640 sensor and 2300m detection range, ideal for open fields and large properties.

If your hunting is primarily in woods, brush, or mixed terrain, the XQ50 is a strong and cost-effective option. If you need more reach and image detail at distance, stepping up to the XR50 may be worth considering.

Why Buy from Southern Precision Outdoors

Southern Precision Outdoors is committed to helping you get into the right thermal setup for your needs.

• Fast and free shipping on orders over $199

• Industry-leading trade-in program

• Competitive pricing and package options

• Financing available

• Real customer support at 678-630-9758

Our trade-in program allows you to upgrade your current thermal or night vision unit and apply that value toward the Trail 3 LRF XQ50 or even step up into higher-resolution options.

Export of night vision/thermal equipment and optical sighting equipment is controlled by the U.S. Department of State Office of Defense Trade Controls, in accordance with International Traffic in Arms (ITAR), Title 22, Code of Federal Regulations Part 120-130 and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) U.S. Department of Commerce. Please see below for more information.