The ATN Norotis Helmet Mount Made a Bold First Impression
The ATN Norotis Helmet Mount from ATN promises to be the perfect solution for hands-free thermal imaging. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless mounting systems come and go, each with its own set of promises. This one, with its claim of “sophisticated technology” and “unbelievably strong and dependable elements,” certainly piqued my interest.
My need for a reliable helmet mount stemmed from recent night-time wildlife observation projects. Trying to juggle a thermal monocular and maintain situational awareness became cumbersome and potentially dangerous. After searching for a robust and versatile mount, the ATN Norotis Helmet Mount emerged as a potential frontrunner based on its advertised compatibility and rugged design.
The unboxing experience was straightforward; the mount felt solid and well-constructed right out of the box. The black finish gave it a tactical look, and the materials felt durable. Its weight wasn’t excessive, suggesting a good balance between strength and comfort.
Compared to other helmet mounts I’ve used, like the Wilcox G24 and a basic Chinese-made J-arm, the ATN Norotis Helmet Mount seemed to strike a balance between affordability and build quality. The Wilcox, while undeniably superior in robustness, comes with a significantly higher price tag. The generic J-arm, on the other hand, felt flimsy and unreliable.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The ATN Norotis Helmet Mount certainly looked the part, but the true test would come in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting ATN Norotis Helmet Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the ATN Norotis Helmet Mount during a nighttime hog hunt in central Texas. The terrain was a mix of open fields and dense brush, providing a challenging environment for both navigation and thermal imaging. I paired the mount with my ATN Thor LT thermal scope.
The performance in the field was initially encouraging. The mount held the thermal securely, allowing me to scan the environment without fumbling. However, the adjustments were not as intuitive as I had hoped, requiring more effort than expected to achieve the optimal viewing angle.
After an hour of use, I noticed some minor shifting of the mount, which required occasional readjustment. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it was a slight inconvenience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple hunting trips and a nocturnal search and rescue training exercise, the ATN Norotis Helmet Mount has proven to be relatively durable. There are some minor scratches on the finish, but no signs of structural damage.
Cleaning the mount is simple. I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use to remove dirt and debris. I also occasionally lubricate the moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
While the mount hasn’t completely blown me away, it has generally met my expectations for its price point. It’s a definite step up from cheaper alternatives, but it doesn’t quite reach the performance level of premium options.
Breaking Down the Features of ATN Norotis Helmet Mount
Specifications
The ATN Norotis Helmet Mount PN 1701010 w/J Arm is designed to provide a stable platform for thermal and night vision devices. It utilizes strong and dependable elements. Here’s a breakdown of the key specifications:
- Material: The mount is constructed from a durable, lightweight alloy.
- Compatibility: It is designed to be compatible with standard night vision and thermal devices utilizing a J-arm interface.
- Adjustability: The mount offers adjustable height and tilt, allowing users to customize the viewing angle.
- Mounting: It is compatible with most standard tactical helmets featuring a night vision shroud.
- J-Arm: Includes a J-Arm for attachment to night vision/thermal devices.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the mount’s ability to securely hold and position a thermal or night vision device. A robust material ensures longevity, while adjustability allows for a comfortable and customizable viewing experience.
Performance & Functionality
The ATN Norotis Helmet Mount performs its primary function adequately: holding a thermal or night vision device securely. Its reliability is generally good, although the occasional shifting I experienced is a concern.
The mount’s strengths lie in its affordability and decent build quality. However, the adjustability could be smoother, and the locking mechanisms could be more robust. It meets the basic expectations of a helmet mount, but it doesn’t necessarily exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The ATN Norotis Helmet Mount has a simple and functional design. The black finish gives it a tactical appearance, and the overall weight is manageable.
The user-friendliness is acceptable, but there is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the height and tilt. The instructions could be clearer.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the ATN Norotis Helmet Mount should last for several years with proper care. The alloy construction appears to be reasonably resistant to wear and tear.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that’s required to keep the mount in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ATN Norotis Helmet Mount comes with a J-arm. The J-arm facilitates the attachment of devices to the mount.
The mount’s compatibility with standard night vision shrouds means that it can be used with a wide range of helmets. It can also accommodate different J-arms if users prefer a specific brand or style. Be sure to use bold and italic text where necessary to emphasize important points.
Pros and Cons of ATN Norotis Helmet Mount
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Decent build quality provides reasonable durability for the price.
- Compatibility with standard night vision shrouds allows for versatile use.
- Adjustable height and tilt offer some customization for viewing angles.
- Securely holds thermal and night vision devices, ensuring hands-free operation.
Cons
- Adjustability can be stiff and require more effort than expected.
- Occasional shifting during use may necessitate readjustments.
Who Should Buy ATN Norotis Helmet Mount?
The ATN Norotis Helmet Mount is perfect for hunters, airsoft enthusiasts, and security professionals. These individuals need a hands-free thermal or night vision solution. It is also suitable for individuals on a budget.
Those who demand the highest level of durability and precision should skip this product. Look instead at higher-end mounts like the Wilcox G24.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality thermal or night vision device.
Conclusion on ATN Norotis Helmet Mount
The ATN Norotis Helmet Mount is a decent option for those seeking an affordable and functional helmet mounting system. It gets the job done without breaking the bank.
At $349.00, the price is justified given the mount’s build quality and features. While it may not be the best on the market, it provides good value for the money.
I would recommend it to users on a budget who need a reliable helmet mount for occasional use. However, those who require top-tier performance and durability should consider investing in a more expensive option. If you’re looking for a solid, entry-level helmet mount, the ATN Norotis Helmet Mount is worth considering.