The ATN TIWST5635A Thor 5 Thermal Rifle Scope 3-24x Made a Bold First Impression
Thermal scopes used to be bulky, expensive, and complicated. ATN, however, has consistently pushed the envelope, bringing thermal technology to a wider audience. The ATN TIWST5635A Thor 5 Thermal Rifle Scope 3-24x promises to be a leap forward, boasting a powerful sensor, advanced features, and user-friendly interface. Its high magnification range and onboard ballistic calculator really caught my eye.
My property borders a heavily wooded area, and predator control has become a necessity. Traditional night vision just wasn’t cutting it in dense foliage, and spotting hogs became a frustrating game of chance. I needed something that could see through the brush, identify targets quickly, and provide accurate aiming solutions. The Thor 5 3-24x seemed like the perfect solution.
Unboxing the ATN Thor 5 was a pleasant experience. The scope felt solid and well-built, despite its relatively light weight for a thermal optic. The included 30mm rings were a nice touch, and the overall design exuded a sense of quality. It certainly felt like a premium piece of equipment.
I’d considered other thermal scopes in this price range, particularly those from Pulsar and Bering Optics. Ultimately, I chose the ATN because of its integrated ballistic calculator, higher magnification, and the reputation of the ATN Gen V Quad Core. The promised ease of use also played a role.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The scope certainly looked impressive. I was excited to get it mounted and see if it lived up to the hype, and to put it through its paces in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting ATN TIWST5635A Thor 5 Thermal Rifle Scope 3-24x to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place on my personal shooting range, a controlled environment where I could zero the scope and familiarize myself with its features. The weather was clear and cool, around 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Mounting was straightforward using the included 30mm rings.
The menu system took a little getting used to, but after an hour or so of tinkering, I felt comfortable navigating the various settings. Zeroing was surprisingly easy thanks to the digital adjustments. The image quality was excellent, providing clear thermal signatures out to several hundred yards.
One minor issue I encountered was the battery life. While ATN claims 10 hours, I found it closer to 8 with continuous use of the video recording feature. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s something to be aware of.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the ATN TIWST5635A Thor 5 Thermal Rifle Scope 3-24x has proven to be a reliable and effective tool. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, including rain, fog, and even light snow. It performed admirably in all of them.
The scope has held up well to the recoil of my .308 rifle, showing no signs of damage or loosening. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a lens cloth and occasional wipe-down of the housing. The weather-resistant rating gives me peace of mind.
Compared to my previous experiences with older thermal optics, the Thor 5 is a significant upgrade. The image quality is far superior, the features are more advanced, and the overall user experience is much more refined. It has noticeably improved my success rate with predator control.
Breaking Down the Features of ATN TIWST5635A Thor 5 Thermal Rifle Scope 3-24x
Specifications
Sensor: The Thor 5 boasts a high-resolution 640×480 60 fps 12 um sensor. This sensor provides exceptional image clarity and detail, allowing for easier target identification.
Magnification: Offering a 3-24x magnification range, the Thor 5 caters to both close-quarters and long-range engagements. This wide range of magnification provides the user with unmatched versatility.
Core: The ATN Gen V Quad Core processor is at the heart of this scope. This powerful processor ensures smooth operation and rapid image processing.
Display: The OLED display provides a crisp and clear image with a resolution of 1024×768. The vibrant OLED screen enhances the viewing experience, minimizing eye strain during extended use.
Eye Relief: The generous 90 mm eye relief is very welcome. This ensures comfortable viewing, especially for those who wear glasses.
Video Recording: The ability to record video at 1280 @ 60 fps is fantastic. This lets you capture your hunts and share them with others.
Ballistic Calculator: The onboard ballistic calculator simplifies long-range shooting. By inputting your rifle and ammunition data, the scope calculates the precise aiming point.
Connectivity: WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity allow for seamless integration with mobile devices. This enables streaming, gallery access, and remote control of the scope.
3D Sensors: 3D Gyroscope and 3D Accelerometer enhance stability and accuracy. These sensors assist in image stabilization and trajectory calculations.
RAV (Recoil Activated Video): RAV automatically records video before and after each shot. This helps capture the moment and analyze your shot placement.
Electronic Compass: An electronic compass aids in navigation and orientation. This feature can be useful for determining direction and location.
Smooth Zoom: The smooth zoom function allows for quick and seamless magnification adjustments. This provides enhanced usability in the field when rapid adjustments are needed.
Radar: The radar feature provides distance and directional data. This feature aids in target acquisition.
Reticles: Multiple reticle patterns and color options cater to individual preferences. The user-customizable reticles allow for precise aiming in a variety of scenarios.
Reticle Editor: The reticle editor provides even more customization options. This feature allows users to create their own custom reticles to suit their specific needs.
Microphone: The built-in microphone records audio along with video. This adds another layer of detail to your recordings.
Storage: A MicroSD card slot supports cards from 4 to 64 Gb. This provides ample storage space for videos and images.
USB Type C: USB Type C port for charging and data transfer. USB type C facilitates faster charging and data transfer.
Mount: Standard 30 mm rings are included. This provides a wide range of mounting options.
Battery Life: The Li-ion battery provides up to 10 hours of continuous use. While real-world battery life may vary, 10 hours is still a good run time.
Waterproof Rating: Weather resistant design protects against the elements. This ensures reliable performance in adverse weather conditions.
Detection Range: Human detection range of 1600 m. This range enables detection of humans at significant distances.
Recognition Range: Human recognition range of 720 m. Allows recognition of human subjects out to the distances specified.
Identification Range: Human identification range of 432 m. Allows positive ID of human targets within the specified range.
Operating Temperature: The scope is rated for -20F to +120F / -28C to 48C. A wide operating temperature range assures usability in virtually any environment.
Dimensions: Dimensions are 316x56x54 mm. This compact form factor means it doesn’t add significant bulk.
Weight: Weighing in at 1.93 lb / 0.88 kg, it is relatively lightweight for a thermal optic. This makes it easier to carry and maneuver.
Warranty: 3-year warranty provides peace of mind. ATN’s 3-year warranty shows confidence in their product.
Country of Origin: Proudly made in the USA. Being made in the USA provides some assurance of the product quality.
Performance & Functionality
The ATN TIWST5635A Thor 5 Thermal Rifle Scope 3-24x excels at its primary function: detecting and identifying heat signatures at long ranges. The image quality is outstanding, allowing for clear target acquisition even in challenging conditions. The ballistic calculator is accurate and easy to use, significantly improving long-range shot placement.
The scope’s strengths lie in its image quality, long detection range, and integrated features. The menu system could be more intuitive, and the battery life could be improved, but these are minor drawbacks. Overall, the Thor 5 exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Thor 5 is well-built and feels comfortable to handle. The controls are easily accessible, and the scope’s relatively light weight makes it manageable on a rifle. The learning curve is moderate, but the included manual and online resources are helpful.
Durability & Maintenance
The scope appears to be very durable, with a rugged housing that can withstand the rigors of field use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning. I expect this scope to last for many years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ATN TIWST5635A Thor 5 Thermal Rifle Scope 3-24x comes with 30mm mounting rings and a USB-C charging cable. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the user-customizable reticles and adjustable settings provide plenty of flexibility. It is compatible with standard Picatinny rails, making it easy to mount on a variety of rifles.
Pros and Cons of ATN TIWST5635A Thor 5 Thermal Rifle Scope 3-24x
Pros
- Exceptional thermal image quality and clarity.
- Long detection range for identifying targets at significant distances.
- Integrated ballistic calculator for accurate long-range shooting.
- User-friendly interface with customizable reticles.
- Durable and weather-resistant construction.
Cons
- Menu system could be more intuitive.
- Battery life is shorter than advertised when using video recording.
Who Should Buy ATN TIWST5635A Thor 5 Thermal Rifle Scope 3-24x?
Perfect for: Hunters who pursue game at night or in low-light conditions, predator control specialists, ranchers dealing with feral hogs, and law enforcement personnel who require thermal imaging capabilities.
Who should skip this product? Those on a very tight budget, as there are cheaper (though less capable) thermal options available. Those who prioritize simplicity above all else might find the advanced features overwhelming.
Must-have accessories or modifications? An external battery pack to extend battery life, a high-capacity MicroSD card for storing videos and images.
Conclusion on ATN TIWST5635A Thor 5 Thermal Rifle Scope 3-24x
The ATN TIWST5635A Thor 5 Thermal Rifle Scope 3-24x is a powerful and versatile thermal optic that delivers exceptional performance. While the price is substantial, the features, image quality, and overall capabilities justify the investment.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this scope to anyone looking for a top-of-the-line thermal imaging solution. The Thor 5 has significantly enhanced my hunting and predator control efforts. If you’re serious about thermal imaging, the ATN TIWST5635A Thor 5 Thermal Rifle Scope 3-24x is definitely worth considering. Upgrade your nighttime game and see what you’ve been missing.