First Thoughts on the ATN ACMUIR85SN IR850 Supernova Long Range IR Illuminator LED Lithium Ion Rechar
Night hunting had always been a challenge for me. Finding the right balance between visibility and stealth was a constant struggle, especially when dealing with skittish game. My current setup was decent, but I always felt like I was leaving something on the table regarding range and clarity. That’s what led me to the ATN ACMUIR85SN IR850 Supernova Long Range IR Illuminator LED Lithium Ion Rechar, hoping to extend my effective hunting range in low-light conditions.
Unboxing the ATN IR850 Supernova, my initial impression was that ATN meant business. The illuminator felt solid and well-constructed, a far cry from some of the flimsy IR lights I’d used in the past. Its weight gave it a reassuring heft, and the finish appeared durable, promising resilience against the elements.
I’d been considering the Streamlight TLR-VIR II and the SureFire XVL2-IRC as alternatives. Ultimately, the ATN product won out due to its purported long-range capability and dedicated focus on IR illumination, without the extra bulk and cost of integrated visible lasers that I didn’t need. The price point also played a significant role in my decision.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. I was eager to see if it could live up to its claims, but wary of past experiences with overhyped products. I hoped that ATN had delivered a true game-changer.
Real-World Testing: Putting ATN ACMUIR85SN IR850 Supernova Long Range IR Illuminator LED Lithium Ion Rechar to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the ATN IR850 Supernova came during a nighttime hog hunt on a friend’s ranch in central Texas. I mounted it on my AR-15, paired with an ATN Thor 4 thermal scope. The initial setup was quick and straightforward.
The conditions were typical for a Texas night: humid, with a slight breeze and temperatures hovering around 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The real test, however, was the darkness – a new moon meant almost zero ambient light. The Supernova truly shined, easily illuminating targets well beyond 200 yards. I could clearly identify hogs at distances I previously couldn’t reach, thanks to the focused beam.
Initially, I did have a minor issue adjusting the beam focus to achieve optimal clarity at different ranges. After a few minutes of tweaking, however, it became second nature. I was impressed by how much the Supernova improved the performance of my thermal scope.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the ATN IR850 Supernova has proven to be a reliable addition to my night hunting gear. It’s endured a few light rain showers and dusty conditions without any noticeable degradation in performance. I’ve also put it through its paces on some long range coyote hunts.
The finish has held up surprisingly well, showing minimal signs of wear despite being bumped around in my rifle case. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes. Battery life has also been satisfactory.
Compared to my previous IR illuminator, a generic Amazon special, the ATN IR850 Supernova is in a different league altogether. It provides significantly more range and clarity, making it a worthwhile investment. I no longer find myself straining to identify targets in the dark.
Breaking Down the Features of ATN ACMUIR85SN IR850 Supernova Long Range IR Illuminator LED Lithium Ion Rechar
Specifications
- The ATN ACMUIR85SN IR850 Supernova Long Range IR Illuminator LED Lithium Ion Rechar uses an 850nm IR LED. This wavelength provides excellent illumination while remaining mostly invisible to the naked eye and minimizing spooking game.
- This illuminator boasts a powerful output, significantly enhancing the range of night vision devices. The beam is adjustable, allowing for both focused long-range illumination and wider flood lighting.
- The ATN Supernova features a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. This eliminates the need for disposable batteries and ensuring long runtimes.
- The housing is constructed from durable aluminum. This provides excellent protection against the elements and rough handling.
- The illuminator includes an adjustable mount. This allows for easy attachment to various rifles and other platforms.
The specifications matter because they translate directly to improved performance in the field. The 850nm wavelength strikes a good balance between range and stealth. The adjustable beam provides versatility for different hunting scenarios. The rechargeable battery saves money and reduces environmental impact. The aluminum housing ensures durability, and the adjustable mount makes it easy to integrate with existing gear.
Performance & Functionality
The ATN IR850 Supernova performs exceptionally well. It greatly extends the usable range of my night vision scope, allowing me to positively identify targets at distances beyond 200 yards. The adjustable beam is a significant advantage, letting me focus the light for long-range shots or widen it for close-quarters scanning.
The main strength is definitely its impressive range and clarity. I haven’t found any major weaknesses so far, although I would appreciate a more intuitive focus adjustment mechanism. It undoubtedly exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the ATN IR850 Supernova is excellent. The aluminum housing feels robust and well-finished. The weight is noticeable but acceptable, considering the performance and battery life it delivers.
The illuminator is reasonably user-friendly, although the focus adjustment ring could be improved. Once you get the hang of it, it’s not a major issue. The mounting system is straightforward and secure.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its solid construction, I expect the ATN IR850 Supernova to last for many years. The aluminum housing should withstand considerable abuse, and the LED technology is known for its longevity.
Maintenance is minimal. As mentioned earlier, a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean. The rechargeable battery should also last for a long time with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ATN IR850 Supernova comes with an adjustable mount and a charger. The mount is compatible with standard Picatinny rails, making it easy to attach to most rifles.
There are limited customization options for this particular product. However, the mount can be replaced with aftermarket options if desired. The illuminator is compatible with any night vision or thermal scope that benefits from supplemental IR illumination.
Pros and Cons of ATN ACMUIR85SN IR850 Supernova Long Range IR Illuminator LED Lithium Ion Rechar
Pros
- Exceptional long-range IR illumination: Greatly extends the effective range of night vision and thermal scopes.
- Adjustable beam: Allows for both focused long-range and wider flood lighting.
- Durable construction: The aluminum housing is built to withstand harsh conditions.
- Rechargeable battery: Saves money and reduces environmental impact compared to disposable batteries.
- Easy to mount: Compatible with standard Picatinny rails for easy attachment to most rifles.
Cons
- Focus adjustment ring could be more intuitive.
- Relatively heavy compared to some smaller IR illuminators.
Who Should Buy ATN ACMUIR85SN IR850 Supernova Long Range IR Illuminator LED Lithium Ion Rechar?
The ATN IR850 Supernova is perfect for serious night hunters, predator control specialists, and tactical shooters who require long-range IR illumination. It’s also suitable for law enforcement and security professionals who need to enhance their night vision capabilities.
This product might not be ideal for casual users who only occasionally use night vision, or for those prioritizing minimal weight over performance. Someone who is only hunting within 50 yards would probably not benefit as much as someone who is hunting at 200+ yards.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality night vision or thermal scope to take full advantage of the illuminator’s capabilities. A spare battery could also be useful for extended hunts.
Conclusion on ATN ACMUIR85SN IR850 Supernova Long Range IR Illuminator LED Lithium Ion Rechar
The ATN ACMUIR85SN IR850 Supernova Long Range IR Illuminator LED Lithium Ion Rechar is a powerful and reliable tool that significantly enhances night vision capabilities. Its exceptional range, adjustable beam, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious night hunters and tactical users. While the focus adjustment could be improved, and it’s a bit on the heavy side, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
The price is justified by the performance and build quality you receive. Cheaper options might exist, but they simply can’t compete with the Supernova’s range and clarity.
I would definitely recommend the ATN IR850 Supernova to anyone looking to extend their effective hunting range in low-light conditions. If you’re serious about night hunting, this illuminator is a game-changer. Don’t get left in the dark; upgrade your night vision setup with the ATN IR850 Supernova today!