First Impressions of ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular
The ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular promises a compact and lightweight solution for enhanced situational awareness in low-light environments. As someone deeply invested in tactical equipment, I was eager to see if this binocular lived up to the hype and delivered on its promise of improved performance over legacy systems. Dual tube night vision offers a significant advantage in depth perception, and the promise of a lighter, more compact unit from ATN piqued my interest.
My need for a reliable night vision solution stems from years spent conducting search and rescue operations in mountainous terrain, often in challenging weather conditions. Navigating treacherous landscapes in near-total darkness demands equipment that is dependable, rugged, and doesn’t add unnecessary weight to an already demanding task. The ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular seemed to fit the bill based on its specifications.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was its relatively small size compared to other dual-tube NVGs I’ve used. The unit felt solid and well-constructed, the matte black finish giving it a professional, tactical appearance. The weight, listed at 1.28 lbs, felt accurate; it was noticeably lighter than my older PVS-15s, which is a significant consideration for prolonged use.
I considered several other options before settling on the ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular. The primary contenders were the AGM PVS-31C and the Elbit Systems F5032. I chose the ATN primarily due to its promise of being lightweight and compact, along with the attractive price point, despite the Gen 2+ tubes compared to the Gen 3 of the alternatives.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was impressed by the form factor, but the Gen 2+ tubes left me slightly concerned about image clarity and range compared to higher-generation devices. The promise of a lighter weight and lower profile, however, made me eager to put the ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place during a nighttime navigation exercise in a dense, wooded area outside of Flagstaff, Arizona. The terrain was uneven, with numerous obstacles like fallen logs and thick underbrush. The ambient light was minimal, with only a sliver of moon providing any natural illumination.
The ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular performed admirably in these challenging conditions. The dual-tube design immediately provided a noticeable improvement in depth perception, making it easier to navigate the uneven terrain. The image was clear and bright enough to identify objects at a reasonable distance, despite the Gen 2+ tubes.
The initial learning curve was minimal; the controls were intuitive, and the adjustable interpupillary distance allowed for a comfortable fit. I did notice some slight image distortion at the edges of the field of view, but it wasn’t significant enough to be distracting. After about an hour of use, the lightweight design became particularly appreciated, causing significantly less neck strain than my older, heavier NVGs.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular during various nighttime activities, including search and rescue training and nocturnal wildlife observation, I’ve gained a better understanding of its strengths and weaknesses. The unit has proven to be surprisingly durable, withstanding bumps and scrapes without any noticeable damage. The IP65 water resistance rating was also tested during a light rain, and the ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular continued to function flawlessly.
There are some signs of wear on the goggle’s contact points with the helmet mount, but this is purely cosmetic. Maintenance has been straightforward, primarily involving cleaning the lenses with a microfiber cloth and inspecting the battery compartment for corrosion. The ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular maintains its performance well.
Compared to my experiences with Gen 3 NVGs, the ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular falls slightly short in terms of image clarity and low-light performance. However, the difference is less significant than I anticipated, and the lighter weight and lower price point make it an attractive alternative for many applications. Overall, I’m impressed with how well it has held up under real-world conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular
Specifications
- Night Vision Generation: 2+. This determines the image intensification technology used; Gen 2+ offers good performance at a more affordable price point than Gen 3.
- Magnification: 1x. This means there is no optical magnification, providing a natural field of view.
- Field of View: 40 degrees. Offers a wide viewing area, crucial for situational awareness.
- Weight: 1.28 lbs. A key feature contributing to user comfort during extended use.
- Length: 4.4 inches. A compact design reduces bulk and interference with other gear.
- Battery Type: CR123. Common and readily available power source.
- Water Resistance Level: IP65. Provides protection against dust and water spray.
These specifications collectively contribute to a lightweight, compact, and rugged night vision system. The ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular is designed for users who prioritize comfort and maneuverability.
Performance & Functionality
The ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular performs admirably, especially considering its Gen 2+ designation. Image clarity is good, with sufficient brightness and contrast for most nighttime scenarios. The auto-gating feature effectively adjusts the image brightness in varying light conditions.
Its strengths lie in its compact size, lightweight design, and dual-tube depth perception. One weakness is that the Gen 2+ tubes don’t perform as well as Gen 3 in very low light or over long distances. Overall, it meets expectations for a Gen 2+ system, offering a significant improvement over single-tube devices.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with a rugged polymer housing that feels durable and well-assembled. The weight distribution is balanced, and the unit is comfortable to wear for extended periods. The intuitive controls require minimal training.
The ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular has a user-friendly design. The pivoting tube housings allow for flexible operation and a lower profile when stowed.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the robust construction and IP65 rating, the ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular should last for many years with proper care. Cleaning the lenses regularly is essential, and avoiding prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures will prolong its lifespan. Repairs, if needed, are best handled by qualified technicians.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular comes with a comfortable flip-up headgear. An optional battery pack can extend battery life. Compatibility with standard helmet mounts makes it easy to integrate with existing tactical gear.
Pros and Cons of ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular
Pros
- Lightweight and Compact Design: Significantly reduces neck strain during extended use.
- Dual-Tube Depth Perception: Greatly enhances situational awareness and navigation in low-light environments.
- Good Image Clarity: The Gen 2+ tubes provide a usable image, especially for close-to-medium range observation.
- Intuitive Controls: Easy to learn and operate, even in complete darkness.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand harsh conditions and rough handling.
Cons
- Gen 2+ Image Intensifiers: While functional, Gen 2+ is not the highest performing technology available; Gen 3 offers superior image clarity and range.
- Limited Customization: Fewer accessory options compared to some other NVG platforms.
Who Should Buy ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular?
The ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular is perfect for:
- Hunters who need enhanced night vision for tracking game or navigating to their hunting stands.
- Search and Rescue personnel who operate in low-light conditions and require reliable night vision equipment.
- Security professionals who need to monitor and patrol areas at night.
- Outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy nighttime hiking, camping, or wildlife observation.
Those who demand the absolute best image quality and longest range should consider a Gen 3 system instead. Must-have accessories include a high-quality helmet mount and an extended battery pack for prolonged use.
Conclusion on ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular
The ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular offers a compelling combination of performance, durability, and affordability. The Gen 2+ image intensifiers provide a usable image in most nighttime scenarios, while the lightweight and compact design makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The value proposition is strong, especially for those who prioritize comfort and dual-tube depth perception over the absolute best image quality.
I would recommend it to anyone seeking a reliable, lightweight, and affordable dual-tube night vision solution. If you’re ready to take your nighttime capabilities to the next level, the ATN PS31-2 Gen 2+ 1x Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular is definitely worth considering.