ATN uses the latest technology to offer new products that make hunting safe and fun. ATN thermal scopes combine an aiming reticle and a compact thermographic camera to offer excellent night vision. Whether it’s a large deer or a small rabbit, with ATN thermal scopes, you will have no trouble hunting at night.
Mars 4 Thermal Scope Series
Mars 4 is one of ATN's most popular series featuring the next generation of thermal sensors. Powered by the in-house Obsidian IV Dual core, these devices are reliable and easy to use.
Marketed as 'the most advanced thermal platform on the planet', Mars 4 devices are ergonomic and attach easily. They feature a next generation HD thermal sensor and powerful lenses that go up to 40x and offer very clear vision. But, what makes these devices some of the best is the impressive range. They cover up to 3 kilometers.
Some of the main features of the Mars 4 series include:
- Ballistic Calculator: This feature removes the need of turning to complex reticles, calculations, and charts. It uses new technologies and will automatically make the required adjustments, such as adjusting the reticle, so your new point of impact will hit the target. Enter the required information and let the system do its job.
- WiFi Dual Stream Video: This feature allows users to simultaneously broadcast HD videos over Wi-Fi and record them on a memory card.
- Recoil Activated Video (RAV): ATN seems to understand how occupied hunters can get as they're too busy concentrating on the prey. They don't always have time to press the record button. This feature solves this problem as it works as a personal videographer and will automatically activate recording once you're ready for a shot.
- Profile Manager: This section is used to store information such as ammunition data. It includes great inputs including bullet weight, ballistic coefficient, initial velocity, drag function, etc. The ammunition box will provide you with this information so you can enjoy hunting even more. Moreover, it supports up to five different profiles, which means no more manual work even if you change ammunition.
- One Shot Zero: Adjusting this scope is easier than ever thanks to the One Shot Zero feature. There is no need to manually adjust to set your eyes on the target.
- Smart Range Finder: With this feature, you will have no difficulty finding the distance from the instrument to your target. This removes the need to invest in a separate instrument as the scope can find the range for you. The company is in the process of patenting the technology and seems to have a lot of faith in it.
- Share on Social Media: These devices come with an internal micro SD card that keeps your files secure. Moreover, you will have the option to update your social media profile with just a few buttons. This makes the scope a perfect fit for influencers or people who want to keep their social media profiles up to date.
- Dual Core Processor: One of the highlights of the device is the processor that ensures it works well and doesn’t lag. We understand how frustrating a lagging device can get. Thanks to this powerful processor, you will be able to perform a variety of tasks without any trouble.
- Bluetooth: These scopes have Bluetooth functionality that allows users to link it to a number of devices. The connection is strong and it will take a few seconds to pair devices together.
- Smooth Zoom: We loved how well the zoom function works on this device. The picture remains clear giving you great visibility.
- Ultra Low Power Consumption: Do not worry about having to charge the device again and again as the battery offers an excellent runtime of over 16 hours. You will be able to go a full day without it needing a recharge.
- Electronic Compass: If you are a hunter, you must be aware of how important compasses are. Carrying one can be troublesome, and this scope solves the problem by incorporating an electronic compass that’ll take you in the right direction.
Reasons to Choose MARS 4 Thermal Scope Series:
- All devices come with a 3-year warranty. This will give you peace of mind as the company is known for offering excellent customer support and will take care of issues that crop up.
- All devices are water resistant, hence you'll be able to use them without any worries even when the weather is not favorable. This series can stop your plans from getting ruined.
- They offer high quality video in 1280x960 resolution. The quality is neat and you'll be able to enjoy your experience in HD.
- Made from high-quality aluminum, these scopes can handle pressure and work smoothly.
What the MARS 4 Thermal Scope Series Lacks:
- These scopes are a little heavy, hence may not be suitable for new hunters.
- A little on the expensive side.
- They’re only water resistant and not waterproof.
There are a variety of models in this series. We will talk about the three most popular options:
|
ATN MARS 4 640 1-10X
|
ATN MARS 4 640 2.5-25X
|
ATN Mars 4 640 4-40x
|
Price
|
Starting as low as €3,899
|
Starting as low as €4,599
|
Starting as low as €4,999
|
Sensor
|
4th GEN 640x480 (<25 mK) sensor
|
4th GEN 640x480 (<25 mK) sensor
|
4th GEN 640x480 (<25 mK) sensor
|
Magnification
|
1-10x lens
|
2.5-25x lens
|
4-40x lens
|
Degrees, Field of View
|
32x25 degrees, field of view
|
12.5x9.7 degrees, field of view
|
8.3x6.2 degrees, field of view
|
Video Quality
|
Smart HD Thermal Rifle Scope records 60FPS videos
|
Smart HD Thermal Rifle Scope records 60FPS videos
|
Smart HD Thermal Rifle Scope records 60FPS videos
|
Rings
|
It features 30mm standard rings that make it easy to mount
|
It features 30mm standard rings that make it easy to mount
|
It features 30mm standard rings that make it easy to mount
|
Space
|
Supports up to 64 GB cards, the minimum is 4 GB
|
Supports up to 64 GB cards, the minimum is 4 GB
|
Supports up to 64 GB cards, the minimum is 4 GB
|
Human Detection Range
|
830
|
1950
|
3300
|
Smart Mil Dot Value Range
|
4.0-10
|
2.0-10
|
1.0-10
|
Human Recognition Range
|
350
|
800
|
1450
|
Human Identification Range
|
225
|
475
|
800
|
Dimensions
|
13.1"x3"x3" / 332x76x76 mm
|
13.8"x3"x3" / 351x76x76 mm
|
14.8"x3"x3" / 375x76x76 mm
|
Weight
|
1.93 lb / 0.88 kg
|
2.2 lb / 1.0 kg
|
2.35 lb / 1.06 kg
|
As evident, almost all of the above models are identical in terms of video quality and space but they differ when it comes to on-field performance. Magnification and field of view can make a lot of difference when you're out there hunting.
Other things to pay attention to include dimensions and weight. ATN Mars 4 640 4-40x, called the best ATN thermal spotting scope by many, is also the heaviest. Using it could put pressure on your hands and also make it difficult to aim, especially if you are a new user. For such people, we suggest the ATN MARS 4 640 1-10X, the most affordable of them all. It is a powerful option that offers decent zoom and range.
Once you have used this one, you can turn to the mid-range option, i.e.: ATN MARS 4 640 2.5-25X.
Mars LT Thermal Scope Series
The Mars LT is another robust line from ATN. At first glance, it looks identical to the Mars 4 series due to some similarities, however, it differs in terms of performance and has a lot of features missing. On the plus side, it’s a very affordable series.
This scope can handle high caliber weapons and works with any industry standard 30mm rings. This offers more flexibility and ease.
Here are some of its main features:
- One Shot Zero: This is one of ATN’s defining features as it makes hunting more fun. It makes adjusting this scope easier as all the hunter has to do is click a button that’s very cleverly placed.
- Ultra Low Power Consumption: The series impresses in this department as it has a battery output of about 10 hours, which will be enough for most users.
- Electronic Compass: You’ll never be losing your way with the scope’s built-in electronic compass that works like a charm.
Reasons to Choose MARS LT Thermal Scope Series:
- Enjoy a 3-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
- All scopes in this series are weather resistant.
- The body is sturdy and can handle pressure.
- All models are under 1.6 lbs., hence very lightweight and easy to handle.
What the MARS LT Thermal Scope Series Lacks:
- These are only water resistant and not waterproof.
- Does not come with rings.
- There is no video recording.
- Not as technologically advanced as the Mars 4 series.
There are a variety of models in this series. We will talk about the three most popular options:
|
ATN MARS LT 160 4-8X
|
ATN MARS LT 320 4-8X
|
ATN Mars LT 320 5-10x
|
Price
|
Starting as low as €1,399
|
Starting as low as €2,099
|
Starting as low as €2,399
|
Sensor
|
160 x 120 px/17 µm 60 Hz
|
320x240 px/12 μm 60 Hz
|
320x240 px/12 μm 60 Hz
|
Magnification
|
4-8x lens
|
4-8x lens
|
5-10x lens
|
Degrees, Field of View
|
8.3x6.2
|
6.3x4.7
|
11.6x8.7
|
Video Quality
|
1280x720 HD Display
|
1280x720 HD Display
|
1280x720 HD Display
|
Rings
|
30mm Standard Rings
|
30mm Standard Rings
|
30mm Standard Rings
|
Human Detection Range
|
625
|
1510
|
1620
|
Human Recognition Range
|
315
|
680
|
710
|
Human Identification Range
|
210
|
400
|
415
|
Dimensions
|
292x56x55 mm / 11.5” x 2.2” x 2.2”
|
292x56x55 mm / 11.5” x 2.2” x 2.2”
|
292x56x55 mm / 11.5” x 2.2” x 2.2”
|
Weight
|
1.4 lb / 650 g
|
1.4 lb / 650 g
|
1.4 lb / 650 g
|
All three devices may look identical but they differ greatly in terms of performance. The most powerful of them is the ATN Mars LT 320 5-10x scope, also called the Best ATN thermal spotting scope by many. It comes with the greatest magnification and range among all options.
Those who want a mid-level option can go with the ATN MARS LT 320 4-8X. It's affordable and powerful enough to keep you going. The cheapest of them all is the ATN MARS LT 160 4-8X scope that doesn't have as much power as the other two but it's good enough to help you improve your hunting skills.
ATN Thermal Imaging Scope Review: Mars LT Thermal Scope Series or Mars 4 Thermal Scope Series, Which One to Choose?
If you check our reviews covering the two ATN thermal scopes above, you will find that they are both designed to work in the dark and have some similarities, such as thermal vision, excellent build, and a 3-year warranty. Both series hit the bull’s eye when it comes to reliability and durability; however, the right option depends on a variety of factors including your requirements, experience level, and budget.
The Mars LT Thermal Scope Series is suitable for new hunters who are low on budget. It isn't as powerful as the Mars 4 Thermal Scope Series but it's more affordable. It lacks a lot of features such as Bluetooth and video recording but we feel that these aren’t necessary if you are out there to learn to hunt and just want to enjoy the feel of hunting. The cheaper version doesn't allow users to stream content on social media or record videos. It also doesn't have the Profile Manager feature.
This is what makes the Mars 4 Thermal Scope Series a great option. It is on the expensive side but we believe that the high price is worth it as you will be able to save money due to additional features. With this device, you will be able to record videos and even them share on social media. With the cheaper version, you will have to hunt without video proof or invest in a separate camera that works in the dark to be able to record content.
Also, the more expensive series, Mars 4, comes with a smart range finger feature, which removes the need to invest in a separate range finder. The scope will get the job done, whereas you will need to buy separate equipment if you choose the LT series.
In addition, Mars 4 features a dual core processor, which ensures users can utilize all the features without any issues. However, we don’t feel that the absence of a dual core processor is much of an issue when it comes to the LT series as the device doesn’t have a lot of features and the processor it comes with is enough to keep it going.
Lastly, the LT series is a little behind when it comes to battery power. The battery offers a runtime of around 10 hours. In comparison, the Mars 4 series offers up to 16 hours of battery life.
ATN Thermal Scopes: Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Mars LT Thermal Scope Series come with?
A new ATN thermal scope comes with the following:
- The Mars LT scope
- Eyecup
- USB-C cable
- Manual
- Scope Cover
Make sure all the contents are there in your best thermal scope box.
How to use ATN thermal scope?
Unpack the device and charge it using the USB type C cable that comes with it. Turn the device on once it fully charges. You will find the power button on the top. Press it till you see the homescreen. Done, start using it now.
How long does it take to charge the device?
ATN thermal scopes take 6-8 hours to fully charge.
Which is the best thermal imaging scope for hunting?
It can be hard to answer as the best quality thermal imaging scope depends on factors such as your budget and requirements. We have covered the six best thermal scopes from ATN above, compare them and pick your favorite ATN thermal scope.
Which is the best thermal night scope?
ATN Mars 4 640 4-40x is undoubtedly the best thermal imaging scope; however, it’s a very expensive option. Those who want a cheaper device can go for the ATN Mars LT 320 5-10x scope.
How can I contact ATN customer support?
ATN is known for offering excellent customer support. You can reach the team at the following numbers:
- +359 32570140 (Bulgaria) - Mon-Fri 9:00 to 20:00 (GMT+2)
- +48 800 088274 (Poland) - Mon-Fri 9:00 to 20:00 (GMT+2)
- +420 800720839 (Czech Republic) - Mon-Fri 9:00 to 20:00 (GMT+2)
- +44 2081451986 (UK and international) - Mon-Fri 9:00 to 17:00 (GMT+1)
Alternatively, you can use the contact form to write to the team. The team typically responds within 48 hours. In addition, social media can also be an option as they’re available on all major platforms, including Facebook and Twitter.
Which is the best thermal hunting scope for the money?
If we had to choose the best thermal night vision scope for the money then we’ll go for the ATN MARS 4 640 2.1-10X. It costs €3,899 and comes with an excellent battery life and some unique features. However, you will also find some cheaper options on this list.