Night hunting opens up an entirely different experience for hunters. Once the sun goes down, animals that are rarely seen during the day become active. However, hunting in darkness requires specialized equipment. Traditional tools like spotlights or night vision can help, but thermal imaging scopes provide a major advantage because they detect heat rather than relying on visible light.
Night hunting opens up an entirely different experience for hunters. Once the sun goes down, animals that are rarely seen during the day become active. However, hunting in darkness requires specialized equipment. Traditional tools like spotlights or night vision can help, but thermal imaging scopes provide a major advantage because they detect heat rather than relying on visible light.
The Pulsar Thermion XM38, produced by Pulsar, was designed to deliver strong thermal performance at a price that is more attainable than many premium thermal optics. According to reviewer David Faubion, the XM38 strikes a balance between performance and affordability, offering impressive capabilities for around $3,300.
Thermal optics detect heat signatures rather than reflected light, allowing hunters to see animals even in complete darkness.
The XM38 uses a 320×240 microbolometer thermal sensor with a 12-micron pixel pitch. While those technical specifications may sound complex, what matters most is how well the optic performs in the field.
According to testing results:
Unlike many lower-cost thermal scopes that can only detect heat blobs, the XM38 is capable of identifying animals at realistic hunting distances.
Thermal scopes operate differently than traditional optical scopes.
With the XM38, you do not look directly through glass lenses. Instead, you view a digital image projected onto an internal display inside the ocular lens.
Because of this design:
To zero the scope, hunters must use a heat-producing target, because ordinary paper targets do not show up well on thermal sensors.
Common methods include:
Once a heat source is visible, the zeroing process becomes straightforward: shoot, adjust digitally, and confirm.
During testing across several states including Texas, Washington, and Idaho the XM38 was used on multiple species:
One memorable hunt occurred in West Texas, where the scope was mounted on an Alexander Arms 6.5 Grendel rifle. Within seconds of beginning a nighttime predator call, a hog appeared roughly 150 yards away and was quickly taken with a single shot.
The thermal display clearly showed the hog’s distinct shape and movement, making identification easy.
While the XM38 can detect heat signatures at very long distances, most real-world shooting occurs within a shorter range.
The reviewer reported the most effective engagement distances were:
Within this range, the scope provides clear identification and reliable shot placement.
However, the XM38 has a 4× base magnification, which narrows the field of view. This can make spotting animals at very close distances under about 25 yards more difficult.
Because of the narrow field of view, many hunters pair the XM38 with a handheld thermal scanner.
For example, a device like the Leupold LTO‑Tracker HD can be used to scan large areas quickly. Once an animal is detected with the handheld device, the rifle-mounted thermal scope is used for identification and shooting.
This two-device approach allows hunters to:
Despite its relatively lower price compared to other thermal optics, the XM38 still includes a wide range of features.
Key capabilities include:
The optic also has a durable all-metal housing and is rated for heavy recoil.
It can handle cartridges up to .375 H&H Magnum and even 12-gauge shotguns, making it compatible with many hunting rifles.
Battery life averages about five hours, which is sufficient for most night hunts.
The Pulsar Thermion XM38 provides a compelling entry point into thermal hunting optics.
While thermal scopes are often extremely expensive, the XM38 delivers strong performance at a lower price point compared to many competitors.
Key advantages include:
For hunters who want to enter the world of thermal predator hunting without spending $8,000 or more, the XM38 offers a powerful and practical option.
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