First Thoughts on the ATN Weapon Mount
The ATN Weapon Mount promises a streamlined solution for integrating ATN‘s popular PVS-14 and 6015 night vision monoculars onto weapon platforms. It’s a purpose-built accessory designed to bridge the gap between observation and engagement in low-light environments. I’ve spent years cobbling together makeshift mounting solutions, always searching for something robust and truly user-friendly.
My need stemmed from consistent frustration. My previous attempts at mounting night vision were either unstable, overly complex, or simply incompatible with my various rifles. The promise of a direct-fit system with easy adjustability and compatibility with Weaver/Picatinny rails immediately caught my attention.
Unboxing the ATN Weapon Mount revealed a surprisingly compact and seemingly durable piece of kit. The machining looked clean, the finish appeared robust, and the inclusion of a preset torque thumb screw gave me confidence in its ease of use. Initial heft suggests a sturdy build, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of field use.
Compared to universal mounts I’ve used from brands like UTG or even some generic Amazon offerings, the ATN Weapon Mount‘s targeted design is the key differentiator. Those other mounts often require shimming, modification, and still don’t offer the secure, repeatable zero I demand. This mount seemed to offer a cleaner, more integrated solution, eliminating the need for frustrating workarounds.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the design appeared promising, the true test would be in its field performance and long-term durability. The price point of $129 seemed reasonable if it delivered on its promise of a secure and easy-to-use mounting solution.
Real-World Testing: Putting ATN Weapon Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the ATN Weapon Mount on my AR-15 during a night hog hunt on a friend’s ranch in central Texas. The environment was dusty and humid, creating demanding conditions for any optic or accessory. This hunt was the perfect proving ground for the ATN Weapon Mount.
Performance was solid. The ATN PVS-14 attached securely and maintained its position throughout the hunt, despite some moderate recoil from the rifle. No shifting or loosening occurred, a significant improvement over my previous experiences with universal mounting solutions.
Ease of use was a major win. The thumb screw with the preset torque level made attachment and removal quick and simple, even in the dark. I appreciated the ability to make adjustments without needing specialized tools, saving valuable time and hassle in the field.
The only initial issue was ensuring proper eye relief with the ATN PVS-14 and my existing daytime optic. Some experimentation with rail placement was needed to find the optimal position, requiring minor adjustments to other accessories.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple hunting trips and range sessions, the ATN Weapon Mount has held up remarkably well. Durability is exceptional. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scuffs, and the mount feels as solid as the day I unboxed it.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a cloth after each use is all that’s needed to keep the mount clean and functioning properly. The anodized finish seems resistant to corrosion, even after exposure to rain and humidity.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper, less specialized mounts, the ATN Weapon Mount is a clear winner. It provides a more secure, stable, and user-friendly platform for my night vision monocular, significantly improving my shooting performance in low-light conditions. The initial cost is justified by its superior performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of ATN Weapon Mount
Specifications
The ATN Weapon Mount is designed specifically for ATN‘s PVS-14 and 6015 night vision monoculars. It features compatibility with most Weaver and Picatinny mounting systems. A notable feature is the easy-to-use thumb screw, designed with a preset torque level.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The specific compatibility ensures a snug and secure fit for the designated night vision devices, preventing unwanted movement or play. Weaver and Picatinny rail compatibility broadens its applicability to a wide range of firearms. The preset torque thumb screw eliminates guesswork and reduces the risk of over-tightening, protecting both the mount and the night vision device.
Performance & Functionality
The ATN Weapon Mount excels at its primary function: securely attaching a night vision monocular to a firearm. Accuracy is maintained, as the mount provides a stable platform that minimizes any potential for shifting or vibration. Reliability is excellent, with no instances of the mount loosening or failing during extended use.
A major strength is its simplicity. The thumb screw design makes attachment and removal quick and easy, even in the dark. One area for potential improvement could be a more streamlined design to minimize the overall profile of the mounted system.
The ATN Weapon Mount largely meets my expectations. The stability and ease of use are impressive, providing a significant upgrade over universal mounting solutions. While a lower profile design would be a welcome improvement, its current performance is satisfactory.
Design & Ergonomics
The ATN Weapon Mount boasts a robust build quality. The materials used appear to be high-grade aluminum, contributing to its durability and resistance to wear and tear. While not exceptionally lightweight, the weight is manageable and doesn’t significantly impact the overall balance of the rifle.
From an ergonomics standpoint, the ATN Weapon Mount is relatively user-friendly. The thumb screw is easy to grip and turn, even with gloved hands. While there is a slight learning curve in finding the optimal placement on the rail to achieve proper eye relief, the process is straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction of the ATN Weapon Mount suggests a long service life. The anodized finish resists scratches and corrosion, protecting the mount from the elements. With proper care and maintenance, this mount should easily withstand years of use in demanding conditions.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each use is typically sufficient to keep the mount in good working order. No specialized tools or cleaning solutions are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ATN Weapon Mount comes as a standalone unit, without any additional accessories included in the box. Customization options are limited, as the mount is specifically designed for ATN PVS-14 and 6015 night vision monoculars. While users can adjust the placement of the mount on the rail to optimize eye relief, there are no other significant customization options available.
The mount is designed to interface directly with Weaver and Picatinny rails, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of firearms. It does not require any proprietary accessories or adapters. The simple and streamlined design minimizes the need for any additional components.
Pros and Cons of ATN Weapon Mount
Pros
- Secure and stable mounting platform. The mount provides a rock-solid connection between the night vision monocular and the firearm, minimizing any potential for shifting or vibration.
- Easy to use thumb screw design. The thumb screw allows for quick and easy attachment and removal, even in the dark.
- Durable and robust construction. The high-grade aluminum and anodized finish ensure long-lasting performance in demanding conditions.
- Weaver/Picatinny rail compatibility. The mount is compatible with a wide range of firearms, making it a versatile choice for different weapon platforms.
- Specific design for ATN PVS-14 and 6015. The specific compatibility ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance with the designated night vision monoculars.
Cons
- While solid, the design could be a little lower profile. A sleeker profile would reduce bulk on the weapon.
- Limited customization options. It’s designed only for specific ATN models, limiting broader usage.
Who Should Buy ATN Weapon Mount?
The ATN Weapon Mount is perfect for hunters who pursue nocturnal game like hogs or coyotes, law enforcement professionals requiring night vision capabilities, and tactical shooters who engage in low-light training or operations. Anyone already owning an ATN PVS-14 or 6015 who wishes to weapon mount their device will find this a near-essential accessory.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who do not own an ATN PVS-14 or 6015 night vision monocular, or those who prefer using other night vision mounting solutions. This is a highly specialized piece of equipment, not a universal mount.
A must-have accessory would be a quality rail system on the firearm to provide ample space for mounting both the ATN Weapon Mount and any daytime optics. Some shooters may also benefit from a cheek riser to achieve proper eye alignment with the night vision monocular.
Conclusion on ATN Weapon Mount
The ATN Weapon Mount is a well-designed and robust accessory that delivers on its promise of providing a secure and easy-to-use mounting solution for ATN PVS-14 and 6015 night vision monoculars. Its durable construction, simple thumb screw design, and compatibility with Weaver/Picatinny rails make it a valuable addition to any low-light shooting setup.
The price of $129 is justified by the mount’s superior performance, durability, and specific compatibility with ATN night vision devices. While a lower profile design and greater customization options would be welcome improvements, the mount’s current functionality is excellent.
I would personally recommend the ATN Weapon Mount to anyone seeking a reliable and user-friendly way to integrate their ATN PVS-14 or 6015 night vision monocular onto a firearm. If you’re tired of struggling with universal mounting solutions, this mount is a worthy investment that will significantly improve your shooting performance in low-light conditions. Upgrade your nighttime capabilities today and experience the difference a purpose-built mount can make!