ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular Review

Table of Contents

First Impressions of ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular

The ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular represents a significant leap in night vision technology, offering dual-tube viewing and advanced features in a compact and lightweight package. ATN, known for its innovative approach to electro-optics, aims to provide unparalleled situational awareness in low-light conditions with this binocular. The promise of increased system resolution, reduced head-borne weight, and an expansive 51-degree field of view immediately piqued my interest.

For years, I’ve relied on various night vision monoculars and older-generation goggles for search and rescue operations, tactical training, and wildlife observation. I constantly sought a system that offered true depth perception and comfortable extended use, without sacrificing image clarity. The ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular, with its independently pivoting tubes and high-performance Gen 3 image intensifier tubes, appeared to be the answer.

Unboxing the ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular revealed a sleek, matte black unit that felt surprisingly robust, despite its lightweight construction. The articulating tubes moved smoothly and positively, inspiring confidence in the design. Compared to older PVS-15 models or bulkier quad-tube systems, the PS31-HPT felt far more streamlined and balanced.

I previously considered the L3Harris BNVD and the Elbit Systems F5032, but the ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular‘s combination of features, compact design, and promising image quality swayed my decision. The price tag of $7495.00 is considerable, but if the performance lives up to the hype, it’s a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike. My initial excitement was tempered by the hope that the real-world performance would justify the expense.

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Real-World Testing: Putting ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test of the ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular took place during a nighttime search and rescue training exercise in the mountainous terrain of the Cascade Range. This environment presented a variety of challenges, including dense forests, steep slopes, and unpredictable weather conditions. The conditions were damp, with a light mist hanging in the air, and temperatures hovering around 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

The ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular immediately impressed with its clarity and depth perception. Navigating the uneven terrain felt much more natural than with a monocular, as the dual tubes provided a realistic sense of distance and elevation changes. The auto-gain feature worked seamlessly, adjusting the image brightness as I moved between densely wooded areas and more open spaces.

While familiarizing myself with the ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular, I noticed a slight learning curve in adjusting the interpupillary distance (IPD) for optimal binocular fusion. Once properly adjusted, however, the viewing experience was exceptional. I experienced no unexpected issues, and the increased situational awareness afforded by the wider field of view proved invaluable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use in various scenarios, the ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. These tests included several nighttime hunting expeditions, security patrols on a private ranch, and a multi-day wilderness survival exercise. The diverse conditions exposed the PS31-HPT to dust, rain, and fluctuating temperatures.

The ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular has shown minimal signs of wear and tear. The housings remain solid, and the articulating joints are still smooth and tight. The only noticeable effect is a slight smudging of the matte finish around the oculars, which is easily cleaned.

Maintaining the ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner. The IP65 water resistance rating provided peace of mind during exposure to rain and moisture. Compared to my previous experiences with older night vision devices, the ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular offers a significant upgrade in performance, durability, and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular

Specifications

The Manufacturer is ATN. ATN brings years of experience to night vision development.
It uses White Phosphor Image Intensifier tubes for enhanced clarity. This presents images in a grayscale format that many users find more comfortable and natural.
Its Length is 4.4 inches, keeping it compact. This small size contributes to user comfort.
It weighs in at 1.28 lb, making it lightweight for extended use. The reduced weight minimizes strain during prolonged missions.
It features 1x Magnification, maintaining a natural field of view. This avoids any distortion of perceived distances.
The Color is Black with a Matte Finish for low visibility. This aids in covert operations.
It has a Field of View of 51 degrees, providing expansive situational awareness. The wide field of view improves the ability to detect movement and threats.
It utilizes a CR123 Battery, offering a readily available power source. CR123 batteries are compact and provide excellent performance.
The ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular has a Water Resistance Level of IP65, protecting against dust and water splashes. This level of protection makes it suitable for a variety of environmental conditions.

These specifications contribute to the ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular‘s performance by providing a clear, wide, and comfortable viewing experience, with the robustness necessary for demanding field use. The lightweight design is especially crucial for minimizing fatigue during extended use.

Performance & Functionality

The ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular excels in its primary function: providing exceptional night vision capability with true depth perception. The clarity and brightness of the image are outstanding, even in extremely low-light conditions. The independently pivoting tubes allow for flexible use, adapting to various scenarios.

One of its strengths is its compact and lightweight design, which significantly reduces strain during prolonged use. A minor weakness lies in the initial learning curve of adjusting the IPD for optimal binocular fusion. It far exceeds expectations in terms of image quality, ease of use, and overall situational awareness.

Design & Ergonomics

The ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular exhibits excellent build quality, using durable materials and robust construction. The matte black finish is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The weight distribution is well-balanced, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods.

The ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular is generally user-friendly, though initial adjustments may require some patience. The pivoting tubes are intuitive to operate, and the controls are easily accessible. A quick start guide or more detailed user manual would be a welcome addition.

Durability & Maintenance

The ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular appears to be built to last, with high-quality materials and solid construction. The IP65 water resistance rating provides adequate protection against moisture and dust. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses and inspection of the housings. Regular battery replacement is necessary, but the CR123 battery is readily available. No specialized tools or expertise are required for basic maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular comes with a comfortable flip-up headgear for hands-free operation. An optional external battery pack can extend operating time significantly. While the ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular is primarily designed as a standalone unit, it is compatible with various helmet mounting systems and IR illuminators.

The use of standard dovetail mounts makes it compatible with many common night vision accessories. The ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular‘s modular design allows for some customization.

Pros and Cons of ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular

Pros

Exceptional image clarity and brightness with white phosphor tubes.
Lightweight and compact design for comfortable extended use.
True depth perception due to the dual-tube configuration.
Wide 51-degree field of view for enhanced situational awareness.
Durable construction with IP65 water resistance.

Cons

High price point may be prohibitive for some users.
Initial IPD adjustment can be somewhat finicky.

Who Should Buy ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular?

The ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular is perfect for law enforcement professionals, search and rescue teams, wildlife researchers, and serious hunters who require the best possible night vision performance. It is also ideal for individuals involved in tactical training or security operations. Anyone needing enhanced situational awareness and depth perception in low-light environments will benefit greatly.

Those on a limited budget or requiring only occasional night vision capability may find this product overkill. Those sensitive to minor image distortions or who require extremely specialized features may also want to consider other options. A helmet mount is a must-have accessory for hands-free operation during tactical situations.

Conclusion on ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular

The ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular is an exceptional piece of equipment that delivers on its promise of providing unparalleled night vision capability. While the price is undoubtedly a significant investment, the performance, durability, and features justify the cost for serious users. The increased situational awareness and depth perception offered by the dual-tube configuration are invaluable in low-light environments.

I wholeheartedly recommend the ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular to anyone who demands the best in night vision technology. If you’re serious about your night vision needs, this is the tool you want in your arsenal. Step into the darkness with confidence – invest in the ATN PS31-HPT Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle/Binocular and experience the difference.