The ATN PS31-3HFW BNVD-51 Night Vision Goggles Matte Black 1x18mm, Generation 3 Auto-Gated White Phosphor, High FOM 22 Made a Bold First Impression
The ATN PS31-3HFW BNVD-51 Night Vision Goggles Matte Black 1x18mm, Generation 3 Auto-Gated White Phosphor, High FOM 22 are a serious piece of kit, promising unparalleled situational awareness in the darkest conditions. These aren’t your grandpa’s night vision; we’re talking cutting-edge Gen 3 technology, auto-gating, and a wide 51-degree field of view, all packed into a relatively lightweight binocular system.
I’ve spent years squinting through older NVGs, wishing for a clearer, wider view, especially during low-light security patrols on my property. That’s what led me to these ATN goggles.
Unboxing them felt like prepping for a mission; the matte black finish exudes professionalism, and the weight, while noticeable, feels balanced and manageable. The build quality appears robust, reassuring given the hefty price tag.
I considered the AN/PVS-14 and PVS-31A, but the wider FOV of the PS31-3HFW and the independently pivoting tubes for flexible use won me over. The dual-tube design promised superior depth perception compared to monoculars.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and healthy skepticism; could these goggles truly live up to the hype and justify the cost? The potential for enhanced nighttime observation was definitely alluring.
Real-World Testing: Putting ATN PS31-3HFW BNVD-51 Night Vision Goggles Matte Black 1x18mm, Generation 3 Auto-Gated White Phosphor, High FOM 22 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the ATN PS31-3HFW during a nighttime hog hunt on a sprawling Texas ranch. The near-total darkness of the open fields provided the perfect environment to assess its capabilities.
Even in slightly foggy conditions, the image remained remarkably clear, and the auto-gating feature swiftly adapted to varying light levels from distant farm lights. The controls were intuitive, requiring minimal adjustment time, though mastering the diopter settings took a few minutes.
Initially, the sheer brightness of the white phosphor tubes was almost overwhelming, but my eyes quickly adjusted, revealing details I’d never seen before with older green-tube NVGs. The improved depth perception from the binocular configuration was immediately noticeable, aiding in judging distances and navigating uneven terrain.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of regular use, including several nighttime search and rescue drills in dense woodlands, the ATN PS31-3HFW continues to impress. The matte black finish has proven surprisingly resistant to scratches and scuffs, a testament to its durable construction.
I’ve found them easy to clean with the provided lens tissue, though I’m careful to avoid harsh solvents. Compared to my previous experiences with Gen 2 NVGs, the clarity and range of these goggles are a night-and-day difference.
The ATN PS31-3HFW has consistently outperformed my expectations in various low-light scenarios. It’s become an indispensable tool for any nighttime operation where visibility is paramount.
Breaking Down the Features of ATN PS31-3HFW BNVD-51 Night Vision Goggles Matte Black 1x18mm, Generation 3 Auto-Gated White Phosphor, High FOM 22
Specifications
Magnification: 1x. This provides a natural view without distorting distance, essential for maintaining situational awareness.
Color: Matte Black. The non-reflective finish minimizes visibility in tactical situations.
Field of View: 51 Degrees. The wide FOV greatly enhances situational awareness, reducing the “tunnel vision” effect common with narrower NVGs.
Resolution: High FOM 2200+. This high Figure of Merit (FOM) indicates excellent image clarity and detail, crucial for target identification and navigation.
Objective Lens: 18mm. The 18mm lens provides a balance between light gathering and compact size.
Battery Size: CR123A. Common and readily available, making field replacements easy.
Length: 4.40″. A compact size for easy storage and handling.
Proofs: Water/Weather Resistant. The rugged design ensures reliable performance in challenging environmental conditions.
Battery Life: Up to 300 hrs. Extended battery life minimizes the need for frequent replacements during prolonged operations.
Generation: 3 Auto-Gated White Phosphor. The Gen 3 tubes offer superior low-light performance, while auto-gating protects the tubes from sudden bright light exposure, and white phosphor provides a more natural-looking image.
Height: 4.15″. Designed for comfortable helmet mounting.
Infrared Illuminator: Yes. Provides supplemental illumination in extremely dark environments.
Optic Coating: Proshield. Reduces glare and enhances image clarity.
Weight: 1.28 lbs. A relatively lightweight design minimizes strain during extended use.
Diopter Adjustment: -5 / +5. Allows users to adjust the focus to their individual eyesight.
Performance & Functionality
The ATN PS31-3HFW BNVD-51 Night Vision Goggles Matte Black 1x18mm, Generation 3 Auto-Gated White Phosphor, High FOM 22 excels in its primary function: providing exceptional night vision. The clarity is outstanding, allowing for rapid target acquisition and precise navigation in complete darkness.
Its strengths lie in its wide field of view, high resolution, and durable construction, but the high price point might be a barrier for some users. Overall, the performance exceeds expectations, particularly compared to older generations of night vision technology.
Design & Ergonomics
The matte black finish of the ATN PS31-3HFW gives it a tactical and professional look. The weight, though noticeable, is well-distributed, making it relatively comfortable to wear for extended periods.
There’s a slight learning curve to fully optimize the diopter adjustments and tube positioning, but the controls are generally intuitive. The individually pivoting tubes are also a great ergonomic feature.
Durability & Maintenance
The ATN PS31-3HFW feels incredibly robust and well-built, suggesting it will withstand years of use in demanding environments. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only occasional lens cleaning with the supplied tissue.
With proper care, these goggles should provide reliable performance for many years, potentially making the high initial investment worthwhile. The ATN brand is generally known for solid, dependable NVG.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ATN PS31-3HFW comes standard with an instruction manual, lens tissue, soft carrying case, helmet mount, and one CR123 battery. While the included accessories are functional, users may want to explore aftermarket helmet mounts for enhanced stability and comfort.
The goggles are compatible with standard PVS-14 mounting systems, offering a wide range of customization options. Consider higher quality mounts or battery packs for increased usability.
Pros and Cons of ATN PS31-3HFW BNVD-51 Night Vision Goggles Matte Black 1x18mm, Generation 3 Auto-Gated White Phosphor, High FOM 22
Pros
- Unparalleled Clarity: High FOM Gen 3 tubes provide exceptional image detail.
- Wide Field of View: 51-degree FOV dramatically improves situational awareness.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
- Auto-Gating: Protects tubes from damage and maintains image quality in varying light.
- Binocular Design: Enhanced depth perception for improved navigation and task performance.
Cons
- High Price: Significant financial investment required.
- Weight: Can become fatiguing during extended use without proper helmet mounting.
Who Should Buy ATN PS31-3HFW BNVD-51 Night Vision Goggles Matte Black 1x18mm, Generation 3 Auto-Gated White Phosphor, High FOM 22?
The ATN PS31-3HFW BNVD-51 Night Vision Goggles Matte Black 1x18mm, Generation 3 Auto-Gated White Phosphor, High FOM 22 are perfect for professionals in law enforcement, security, search and rescue, or military operations where superior night vision is critical. They are also suitable for serious hunters, wildlife observers, and anyone needing top-tier nighttime situational awareness.
Those on a tight budget or needing only occasional night vision capabilities should probably skip this product. A must-have accessory is a high-quality helmet mount for optimal comfort and stability.
Conclusion on ATN PS31-3HFW BNVD-51 Night Vision Goggles Matte Black 1x18mm, Generation 3 Auto-Gated White Phosphor, High FOM 22
The ATN PS31-3HFW BNVD-51 Night Vision Goggles Matte Black 1x18mm, Generation 3 Auto-Gated White Phosphor, High FOM 22 represent a significant investment, but the performance is undeniably impressive. The clarity, wide field of view, and rugged design justify the price for those who demand the best.
I wholeheartedly recommend these goggles to anyone serious about night vision. If you need the best tools to perform optimally in the dark, then these are definitely worth considering.
Don’t settle for less; experience the difference that ATN‘s Gen 3 technology can make.