Canada Day / Night Vision Optics

Digital Night Vision Optics

At the lower price point, the digital has a much better image. Generally digital unit easily competes with higher end 2nd generation and some lower end 3rd generation night vision units that cost thousands of dollars. The high end generation 3 models, such as those using ITT's new Pinnacle tube will still greatly outperform the digital units, but they are just over ten times the cost.

The big advantage of digital unit over earlier tube type image intensifiers is that it will work in full daylight without damage to its CCD sensor.. Extra light will not change the image, it will remain reliant on tones of grey for visual quality, similar to low contrast ‘black and white’ photography.

If the main priority is the resolution, we would recommend analog night vision optics. We would recommend analog optics if money isn’t an issue and digital for people that are on a budget.

Having a hard time deciding which ATN X-SIGHT 5 to buy?

The ATN X-Sight 5 series has some exciting features, and choosing between different models can depend on your specific needs. Let’s break down the key aspects of the series and what factors might help you decide:

Key Features of the ATN X-Sight 5 Series:

Day/Night Capability: It’s a digital scope that can be used during both day and night, making it versatile for hunting in various conditions.
4K+ Ultra HD Sensor: Provides excellent image quality with high detail and contrast.
Ballistic Calculator: Helps with accurate shots by factoring in range, wind, and other variables.
Rangefinder: Allows you to estimate distances to targets.
Video Recording: You can record your hunts or activities in high resolution.
Battery Life: Improved over earlier models, with up to 12 hours of continuous use.

Differences Between Models:

The primary difference between ATN X-Sight 5 models will generally be magnification and objective lens size. Here's a comparison of common options:

1. ATN X-Sight 5 (3-15x)

Magnification: 3-15x
Best for: Medium-range shooting, daytime and nighttime use.
Why choose it: This model is great for general-purpose use. It offers enough magnification for hunting in forests or medium-range environments without being too bulky. It's a good choice if you're looking for a balance between field of view and zoom range.

2. ATN X-Sight 5 (5-25x)

Magnification: 5-25x
Best for: Long-range shooting.
Why choose it: If you plan on doing long-range shooting or hunting in wide, open spaces, this higher magnification model gives you the extra zoom you need to reach distant targets. However, keep in mind that higher magnification can make it harder to acquire targets at close range, and the scope will likely be larger and heavier.

Things to Consider:

Your Typical Range:
- If most of your shooting or hunting is at medium range (up to 300-500 yards), the 3-15x might be ideal.
- If you're regularly engaging at longer ranges (500+ yards), the 5-25x will be a better fit.
Size and Weight:
- Higher magnification models like the 5-25x will be larger and heavier. If portability is key, the 3-15x might suit you better.
Price Point:
- The 5-25x version will typically be more expensive due to the higher magnification range and larger objective lens. If you’re budget-conscious, the 3-15x could be a more affordable option.
Field of View:
- Higher magnification can narrow the field of view, making it harder to track moving targets. If you’ll be hunting or shooting in environments where you need a wide field of view (e.g., dense forests or close-quarters), the 3-15x will offer more flexibility.

Final Recommendation:

If you need a versatile scope for medium-range shooting and want to avoid too much bulk, the ATN X-Sight 5 (3-15x) is a great choice.
If you frequently shoot at longer ranges or in open areas where higher magnification is crucial, go with the ATN X-Sight 5 (5-25x).

Having a hard time deciding which Sightmark wraith to buy?

The Sightmark Wraith series is an excellent line of digital scopes that offers both day and night functionality, with various models suited to different shooting needs. Deciding which Wraith to buy depends on factors like your shooting distance, magnification preferences, and features you prioritize. Here's a breakdown of the main models to help you choose:

1. Sightmark Wraith HD (2-16x28)

Magnification: 2-16x (Digital zoom)
Best for: Medium-range shooting and hunting.
Key Features:
- 1920x1080 HD sensor for crisp imaging.
- 2x base magnification with 8x digital zoom.
- Night vision mode with IR illuminator included.
- Records 1080p HD video with sound.
Why choose it: This is the most versatile model in the Wraith lineup, offering a good balance between magnification, size, and price. It's ideal for hunters and shooters who need both day and night capabilities at moderate ranges (up to about 300-400 yards).

2. Sightmark Wraith HD (4-32x50)

Magnification: 4-32x (Digital zoom)
Best for: Long-range shooting.
Key Features:
- 1920x1080 HD sensor for high-quality imaging.
- 4x base magnification with 8x digital zoom.
- Larger 50mm objective lens for better light transmission.
- Includes IR illuminator for night use.
- Video recording capability.
Why choose it: This model is designed for long-range shooting, where the higher magnification (up to 32x) is essential. The larger 50mm lens also performs better in low-light situations, giving you clearer images at a distance. However, it’s bulkier and more suited for shooting from a stationary position.

3. Sightmark Wraith 4K Max (3-24x50)

Magnification: 3-24x (Digital zoom)
Best for: Higher image quality and extended battery life.
Key Features:
- 4K Ultra HD sensor for ultra-clear imaging.
- 3x base magnification with 8x digital zoom.
- 50mm objective lens for excellent low-light performance.
- 4K video recording and improved image quality in both day and night modes.
- Includes IR illuminator and long-lasting battery life.
Why choose it: The 4K Max is the premium option in the Wraith series, offering superior image quality, especially in night mode. It also features a larger battery for extended use and is ideal for users who want the best performance in terms of clarity and recording features.

Considerations:

Range and Magnification:
- If you're shooting at medium ranges (up to 300 yards), the Wraith HD 2-16x28 is a solid option.
- For longer-range shooting (up to 500-600 yards), the Wraith HD 4-32x50 or 4K Max 3-24x50 will serve you better with their higher magnification and larger objective lenses.
Image Quality:
- If you value crisp image clarity and 4K video recording, the Wraith 4K Max is the top performer.
- The Wraith HD models (2-16x and 4-32x) still offer great quality for general shooting but don’t have the ultra-HD sensor of the 4K Max.
Weight and Size:
- Higher magnification and larger lenses come with more weight. If portability or maneuverability is a priority, the Wraith HD 2-16x28 is more compact.
- The Wraith 4K Max and HD 4-32x50 are heavier but offer more powerful features for long-range or night-time performance.

Final Recommendation:

For general use and medium-range shooting, the Wraith HD 2-16x28 is a great balance between performance, size, and affordability.
If you need long-range capabilities, go for the Wraith HD 4-32x50 for its higher magnification.
For the best image quality, video recording, and low-light performance, the Wraith 4K Max 3-24x50 is the premium choice.

Specs	Sightmark Wratih HD 4-32	Sightmark Wraith HD 2-16	Sightmark Wraith 4k Mini 2-16	Sightmark Wraith 4k Mini 4-32	Sightmark Wraith 4k Monocular	Pulsar Digex C50
Sensor Type	CMOS	CMOS	CMOS	CMOS	CMOS	CMOS
Sensor Resolution	1920x1080	1920x1080	3840x2160	3840x2160	3840x2160	1928x1088
Objective Lens	F50/1.25	F28/1.24	32/1.2	32/1.2	17/1.2	F50/1.4
Magnification	4-32x	2-16x	2-16x	4-32x	1-8x	3.5-14x
Field of View, m @ 100m	7	14	13.3	7	17	11.7x8.8
Display Type	FLCOS	FLCOS	FLCOS	FLCOS	FLCOS	AMOLED
Display Resolution	1280x720	1280x720	1280x720	1280x720	1280x720	1024x768
Illuminator Type	850nm	850nm	850nm	850nm	850nm	850nm
Illuminator Power, mW	Up to 1060	Up to 1060	up to 1060	up to 1060	up to 2000	up to 800
Detection Range	200yds	200yds	300yds	300yds	300yds	550m
Click Value	.2 MOA	.2 MOA	.4 MOA	.4 MOA	n/a	11/11 mm @ 100m
Click Range	70/170 MOA	70/170 MOA	150/350 MOA	150/350 MOA	n/a	2200/2200mm
Recording Type	avi/jpg	avi/jpg	avi/jpg	avi/jpg	avi/jpg	mp4/jpg
Memory Typ	SD Card	SD Card	SD Card	SD Card	SD Card	Internal
Memory, GB	up to 64GB	up to 256GB	up to 256GB	up to 256GB	up to 256GB	16
Waterproof	IP55	IP55	IPX6	IPX6	IPX6	IPX7
Operating Temp, F	20 to 122	20 to 122	32-140	32-140	32-140	-13 to 122
Recoil Rating	.308 win	.308 win	.308 win	.308 win	.308 win	.375 H&H
Mounting	Integrated Mount	Integrated Mount	Integrated Mount	Integrated Mount	pvs 14	30mm rings
Battery Type	4 AA	4 AA	2 CR123A	2 CR123A	2 CR123A	Aps2/Aps3
Battery Life, hrs	5 hours	5 hours	4.5 hours	4.5 hours	4.5 hours	10
External Power	5V Micro USB	5V Micro USB	5V Micro USB	5V Micro USB	5V USB C	5V USB C
Dimensions, mm	266x63x75	255x65x77	160x77x74	160x77x74	160x77x74	408x78x83
Weight, lbs	2.2	2.1	1.35	1.35	1.35	2.5
SKU	SM18011	SM18021	SM18041	SM18042	SM18050	PL76635L


Analog image intensifier tubes used in night vision devices have gotten pretty advanced over the years, but the underlying tech hasn’t changed since the 1930s. Digital sensors have been improving at an almost indescribable rate, but still lag behind in basic light sensitivity...	Clips showing the capability of the SM-3DB in a marine environment.	This video shows a comparison between two night vision devices, the Bushnell night watch 2x24 which is a Gen-1 device, and a night owl xGen Pro which is a digital device, as you can see the digital gives brighter image but the gain is changing constantly...

Often times we get phone calls from customers who are looking to find a high quality, yet affordable combination of a night vision and a thermal handheld for coyote and predator hunting. The benefit of this setup is being able to use the thermal monocular for quick detection of animals and using the night vision scope for positively identifying and shooting the animal. This is an excellent combo for hunters on a somewhat tighter that budget that doesn't quite allow them to purchase two thermals but it still gives them the best of both worlds, identification and quick detection. Listen as Hans and Jason offer suggestions on both night vision scopes and thermal handheld combos.