The ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator Made a Bold First Impression
The ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator promises to enhance your nighttime visibility with its infrared technology. Marketed towards those needing long-range identification of heat signatures, it boasts a 300-meter effective range. My experience with IR illuminators has been mixed, but the ATN brand carries a certain weight, so I hoped this would deliver.
I was in the market for a reliable IR illuminator to assist with nocturnal wildlife observation on my property. Coyotes have been increasingly bold, and I needed a way to identify their presence without alerting them to mine. The ATN IR850-Pro seemed like a potential solution.
Unboxing the ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator, my first impression was…underwhelming. The build felt lightweight, almost plasticky, and the adjustable mount seemed a bit flimsy. Included were the IR850 Pro unit, an 18650 type rechargeable battery, a battery charger, and the aforementioned adjustable mount.
Compared to my older Streamlight IR flashlight, the ATN felt less robust, though the Streamlight lacked the advertised range. I also considered the Night Vision Guys Torch Pro, known for its power, but the ATN’s lower price point and promise of similar performance swayed me. My initial feeling was cautious optimism.
My first impressions were somewhat disappointing. I had expected a more rugged feel for a product marketed towards tactical applications. However, I reserved judgment, hoping its performance would outweigh its perceived shortcomings.
Real-World Testing: Putting ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator took place on my back acreage during a moonless night. The area is a mix of open fields and dense woods. I wanted to see how it performed in both environments.
The night was dry and relatively mild, around 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Initially, I attempted to use the illuminator in conjunction with my Gen 1 night vision monocular. The beam was easily adjustable from flood to spot, but even at maximum intensity, the effective range was far less than advertised. I could barely make out details beyond 100 meters.
The unit was simple to operate, requiring only the installation of the battery and the press of a button to activate. However, the beam adjustment ring felt loose and imprecise. The biggest surprise was the amount of visible red glow emanating from the LED, far more than I expected from an 850nm IR illuminator.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of sporadic use, the ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator continues to underperform. The battery life is acceptable, lasting approximately 2 hours on continuous high output. However, the build quality has become an increasing concern.
The adjustable mount has loosened significantly, making it difficult to maintain a stable beam position. Furthermore, the focusing ring has become even more erratic, sometimes sticking or becoming difficult to adjust. The finish shows signs of wear, despite only light use, further highlighting the less-than-premium construction.
Compared to my experiences with other IR illuminators, the ATN falls short. It lacks the punch of dedicated hunting models and the durability of tactical lights. It disappoints in overall build quality and advertised performance.
Breaking Down the Features of ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator
Specifications
- The ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator uses an 850mW infrared LED. This is meant to provide long-range illumination for night vision devices.
- It claims an effective range of 300 meters. However, testing shows a significant reduction in usable range.
- The package includes an 18650 type rechargeable battery and charger. Providing a power source is convenient.
- An adjustable mount is provided for attachment to various platforms. The mount is, unfortunately, not very robust.
- The unit is designed to detect subtle temperature differences. This is achieved through infrared technology, originally developed for military applications.
These specifications suggest a powerful and versatile IR illuminator. Reality reveals a product that struggles to live up to its claims, particularly in range and build quality.
Performance & Functionality
The ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator’s primary function is to provide infrared illumination for use with night vision devices. Its performance is subpar. The light emitted is significantly weaker than expected for an 850mW illuminator, and the visible red glow compromises its covertness.
The strengths lie in its ease of use and adjustable beam. Conversely, its weaknesses are its limited effective range, noticeable red glow, and questionable build quality. It falls short of expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator features a simple, utilitarian design. The body is constructed from lightweight aluminum, contributing to its portability.
The unit is generally user-friendly, with a single button for power and an adjustable ring for beam focusing. There is a noticeable learning curve due to the imprecise beam adjustment.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability of the ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator is questionable. The materials used feel cheap, and the construction lacks robustness.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens. The overall build quality suggests a limited lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
- The ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator comes with an adjustable mount. This allows for attachment to Picatinny rails and other mounting systems.
- No further customization options are readily available. This limits its adaptability to specific user needs.
While the included mount adds some versatility, the lack of additional accessories and customization options restricts its overall potential.
Pros and Cons of ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator
Pros
- Easy to use with a simple on/off switch.
- Adjustable beam focus.
- Includes rechargeable battery and charger.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Relatively inexpensive compared to some competitors.
Cons
- Effective range significantly less than advertised.
- Noticeable visible red glow.
- Questionable build quality and durability.
Who Should Buy ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator?
The ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator might be suitable for casual users who need a basic IR illuminator for short-range applications, such as backyard wildlife observation. Those on a very tight budget and willing to accept compromised performance may find it acceptable.
Those requiring long-range identification, covert operation, or durable equipment should skip this product. Hunters, tactical professionals, and serious outdoorsmen will likely find it inadequate.
A higher-quality, more powerful IR illuminator is a must-have accessory for anyone who still purchases this item.
Conclusion on ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator
The ATN IR850-Pro Long Range IR Illuminator promises much but delivers little. Its advertised range is misleading, its build quality is suspect, and its noticeable red glow defeats its purpose.
The price is low, but the value proposition is questionable given its performance. I cannot recommend this product.
Save your money and invest in a higher-quality IR illuminator from a more reputable brand. Your night vision experience will be far more rewarding.