First Thoughts on the ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE
The ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE promises to be a game-changer for anyone reliant on electronic devices in the field. ATN, known for their thermal and night vision optics, aims to solve the age-old problem of battery life with this power solution. This battery pack boasts up to 22 hours of continuous use, a claim that certainly piqued my interest.
I was initially drawn to this product hoping to extend the operational time of my thermal scope during extended hog hunts. The persistent drain on smaller batteries had become a real frustration. Unboxing revealed a seemingly well-constructed unit, but my initial reaction wasn’t exactly excitement.
Compared to other battery packs I’ve used for charging phones or powering smaller devices, this felt somewhat clunky. While my other battery packs are from brands like Anker or Goal Zero, prioritizing compact size, this ATN model appears to prioritize capacity over sleekness. Still, the promise of all-night power was tempting enough to move forward with testing. First impressions leaned towards cautious optimism, and a little disappointment because the build quality did not seem impressive.
Real-World Testing: Putting ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test was during a weekend hog hunt in central Texas. I paired the ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE with my ATN Thor 4 thermal scope. Conditions were mild, around 60°F and dry, making it an ideal test environment for baseline performance.
The battery pack was easy enough to connect, and the included pouch attached securely to the buttstock of my rifle. However, after about 6 hours of use, the battery indicator showed a significant drop, far exceeding the expected drain. This immediate underperformance raised concerns about its true capacity.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several more outings, ranging from cold weather coyote hunts (20°F) to dusty range sessions, the ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE consistently underperformed. Battery life typically hovered around 12-15 hours, far short of the advertised 22. Durability seemed adequate, with the rubber seal doing its job in light rain, but the buttstock pouch material showed early signs of wear at the seams.
Maintenance was minimal – just wiping down the unit after use. Comparing it to previous battery solutions, the ATN pack fell short. My smaller, more portable Anker power bank, while offering less capacity, delivered consistent and predictable performance. The ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE simply didn’t live up to its claims, proving unreliable in practice.
Breaking Down the Features of ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE
Specifications
- 16000 mAh Battery Pack: This is the core of the unit, theoretically providing substantial power storage. However, real-world performance suggests this capacity may be overstated.
- USB to Micro USB w/ L Shape Connector: The L-shaped connector is a thoughtful touch, preventing strain on the cable and port. A welcome feature, but standard micro USB is becoming outdated.
- Water Resistant Rubber Seal: The seal is designed to protect the unit from splashes and light rain. It provides a basic level of protection, but shouldn’t be submerged.
- Adjustable Buttstock Pouch: The pouch allows for convenient attachment to a rifle stock. The adjustability accommodates various stock sizes.
Performance & Functionality
The ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE falls short in delivering its primary function: extended battery life. While it does provide power, it does so for a duration significantly less than advertised. The L-shaped connector is a plus, but the core performance issue overshadows this design choice. It does not meet the expectations set by the ATN brand and its marketing claims.
Design & Ergonomics
The ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE is functional but lacks refinement. The materials feel somewhat cheap, and the pouch design is basic. There isn’t a steep learning curve; it’s plug-and-play, but the overall package lacks the premium feel one might expect at this price point.
Durability & Maintenance
The unit feels reasonably durable, but the pouch is a weak point. Seam failures are a concern with extended use. Maintenance is straightforward, involving simple cleaning to remove dirt and moisture.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE comes with the battery pack, USB cable, and buttstock pouch. There aren’t many customization options. You can technically use different pouches, but the included pouch is designed specifically for this battery pack. It’s primarily designed for use with ATN products that utilize a micro USB connection, but may work with other devices as well.
Pros and Cons of ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE
Pros
- Convenient buttstock pouch for easy carry.
- L-shaped micro USB connector reduces cable strain.
- Water-resistant design offers basic protection from the elements.
Cons
- Significantly shorter battery life than advertised.
- Buttstock pouch shows early signs of wear.
- Feels overpriced given its performance and build quality.
- Micro USB is dated technology and should be USB-C in this day and age.
Who Should Buy ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE?
This product might be suitable for someone who absolutely needs a buttstock-mounted power solution and has very light power demands. Perhaps for a casual hog hunter who rarely spends more than a few hours in the field. However, those seeking genuine extended battery life for demanding applications (e.g., serious hunters, security professionals) should look elsewhere.
Anyone prioritizing reliability and value should skip this product. A higher quality power bank and a generic pouch would likely offer better performance at a similar or lower cost. A must-have modification would be replacing the pouch with a more durable alternative.
Conclusion on ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE
The ATN EXTENDED LIFE BAT PACK W/ MICRO USB CABLE promises much but delivers little. The core issue is its overstated battery life, making it unreliable for serious field use. At $99.00, the price isn’t justified given its performance and build quality.
I cannot recommend this product. There are better, more reliable, and more cost-effective power solutions available. Do your research and invest in a product that lives up to its claims.