Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 Review

Let’s Talk About Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2

The Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 is a small but essential piece of kit for anyone running Pulsar‘s thermal optics, especially the Thermion riflescopes. This rechargeable lithium-ion battery promises up to 5 hours of continuous power, which is crucial when you’re out in the field and relying on your thermal for observation or hunting. It’s designed as a compact, easily swappable power source, ensuring minimal downtime when you need your thermal the most.

My reliance on thermal optics during nocturnal hog hunts in Texas was the catalyst for seeking out this power solution. The integrated batteries on some of my older devices were beginning to fail, leaving me scrambling for power in the dark. I needed a reliable and readily available backup, and the Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 seemed to fit the bill.

Upon unboxing, the Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 felt solid and well-constructed, despite its compact size. The black finish is clean and understated, blending seamlessly with my other gear. It doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy, giving me confidence in its durability.

Compared to carrying multiple disposable batteries or relying solely on the internal power source of my Thermion, the APS 2 offered a streamlined approach. I considered other external power banks, but the APS 2‘s tailored design and compatibility with my existing Pulsar devices made it the clear winner. It integrates seamlessly without the need for awkward adapters or external cables.

My initial reaction was one of relief. This tiny brick of power promised to solve a very real problem – keeping my thermal optics running when I needed them most. Now, I was eager to put it through its paces in the challenging conditions of a real hunt.


Real-World Testing: Putting Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 was during a late-night hog hunt on a ranch near Abilene, Texas. The weather was cool and damp, typical for that time of year, with temperatures hovering around 45 degrees Fahrenheit and a light drizzle. I used it to power my Thermion XP50 riflescope.

The APS 2 performed admirably, powering the scope for a solid four hours without any noticeable drop in performance. Despite the damp conditions, the battery functioned flawlessly. Swapping the battery in complete darkness was intuitive and quick, thanks to its simple design.

I was initially concerned about whether the cold temperatures would affect battery life. However, the APS 2 exceeded my expectations. The ease of swapping batteries in the field was a huge improvement over fumbling with external power cables and converters.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 has proven to be a reliable and durable power source. I’ve used it on numerous hunts, ranging from the humid swamps of Louisiana to the arid plains of West Texas.

The APS 2 shows no significant signs of wear and tear, despite being regularly subjected to rough handling and inclement weather. The battery compartment is secure and seals well, protecting the battery from moisture and dust.

Maintaining the APS 2 is simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. Compared to dealing with disposable batteries, the rechargeable nature of the APS 2 has saved me money and reduced waste. It has definitely outperformed my previous battery solutions in terms of reliability and convenience.

Breaking Down the Features of Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2

Specifications

  • The Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery designed for use with Pulsar thermal and digital devices. It boasts a 3.7v charge, providing a stable power supply.
  • It has a battery capacity of 2000 mAh, allowing for extended use in the field. This is a crucial factor for hunters who spend long hours tracking game.
  • The APS 2 is compact, with a length of 59 inches. Its sleek black design makes it discreet and easy to carry.
  • It is a standalone Lithium battery, making it easy to swap in and out of compatible Pulsar devices. This eliminates the need for external power sources or cumbersome cables.
  • It’s designed by Pulsar specifically for their Axion and Thermion devices, ensuring perfect compatibility and optimized performance. This guarantees a seamless integration with existing Pulsar systems.

Performance & Functionality

The Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 excels at providing a reliable and consistent power source for Pulsar thermal optics. Its 2000 mAh capacity delivers on its promise of around 5 hours of use, though environmental factors and device settings can affect this.

Its main strength is its ease of use. The hot-swappable design allows for quick battery changes in the field, minimizing downtime. Its only real weakness is the lack of a built-in charge indicator on the battery itself, requiring users to rely on the device’s display for battery level information.

Overall, the APS 2 meets expectations, providing a reliable and user-friendly power solution for Pulsar devices. It offers a noticeable improvement over relying solely on internal batteries or less convenient external power sources.

Design & Ergonomics

The Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 features a robust build quality using durable materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The black finish is understated and blends in well with other tactical gear.

The design is user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive interface. The battery is easily inserted and removed from compatible Pulsar devices.

Durability & Maintenance

The Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 is built to last, with a rugged construction that can withstand the elements. Its lifespan is estimated to be several years with proper care and usage.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a soft, dry cloth is sufficient to keep the battery in good working order.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 itself doesn’t have many accessories, as it’s a self-contained power source. However, it’s designed to work seamlessly with Pulsar devices like the Axion and Thermion, enhancing their functionality.

It is not designed for customization but rather for reliable, hot-swappable power. Although not directly customizable, using multiple APS 2 batteries gives you flexibility to extend your operating time significantly.

Pros and Cons of Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2

Pros

  • Provides a reliable and consistent power source for Pulsar thermal and digital devices.
  • Enables extended run times in the field, a must-have for serious hunters and observers.
  • Hot-swappable design allows for quick and easy battery changes, even in darkness.
  • Compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry as a backup.
  • Rechargeable, saving money and reducing waste compared to disposable batteries.

Cons

  • No built-in charge indicator on the battery itself.
  • Requires a separate charger (sold separately or included with some Pulsar devices).


Who Should Buy Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2?

The Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 is perfect for hunters, wildlife observers, and anyone who relies on Pulsar thermal or digital devices for extended periods in the field. It’s also invaluable for law enforcement professionals and security personnel who need a reliable and readily available power source for their thermal imaging equipment.

Anyone who rarely uses their thermal devices or only uses them for short periods may not need the APS 2. For those users, the internal battery might suffice.

A must-have accessory is a dedicated Pulsar APS battery charger. Having a charger allows you to keep multiple batteries topped up and ready to go, maximizing your time in the field.

Conclusion on Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2

The Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 is a compact and reliable power solution for Pulsar thermal and digital devices. It solves the problem of limited battery life, allowing for extended use in the field.

The price of $81.99 is justified given the reliability, convenience, and extended runtime it provides. For anyone serious about using Pulsar thermal optics, it’s an essential investment.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Pulsar Battery Pack APS 2 to anyone looking to extend the life of their Pulsar thermal devices. Don’t let a dead battery cut your hunt short. Grab an APS 2, and stay powered up.

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