Scope review: ATN’s MARS thermal rifle scope series

Every hunter will agree that when it comes to optics, quality and performance truly matter and many want to know, which is the best thermal rifle scope? Well, for years ATN has been leading the industry with its innovative technology and designs to provide hunters with the best equipment that performs under any conditions in any scenario.

Now they have released the MARS Thermal Scope series, making it possibly the best thermal imaging scope for hunting, and this review will break down each scope and highlight all the features that will contribute to more success out in the field.

MARS 4 Thermal Rifle Scope Series

A vast improvement on the already popular MARS-HD thermal scope, the new MARS 4 Series from ATN is a set of modern 30mm tube scopes that is a game changer amongst dedicated hunters.

Let’s break down a few of the unique features that the series offers in general before we dive deep into each individual model:

• Built-in Smart Range Finder
• Thermal Imagery
• WiFi & Bluetooth Connectivity
• Live Video Stream & Recording
• Dual Core Processor
• Recoil-activated Recording
• One Shot Zero Functionality
• Ballistics Calculator
• 16-Hour Battery Life

Who would the MARS 4 Thermal Rifle Scope Series be best suited for?

1. Predator Hunters:

With supportive features such as live streaming and video recording through ATN’s innovative dual-core processing system, predator hunters can record and replay each shot, which is extremely helpful when hunting at night.

The built-in range finder and quality thermal imagery of the MARS 4 series, means having to use less additional equipment such as thermal monoculars and hand-held range finders, so the hunter can remain focused and steady on coyotes, bobcats, foxes, and more.

2. Long-range Hunters:

The MARS 4 series ballistics calculator feature coupled with the smart range finder and crystal clear glass, makes for a deadly combination and provides the long-range hunter or target shooting enthusiast with a greater success rate.

MARS LT Thermal Rifle Scope Series

It’s not always long shots and picking up animals at far distances, in most cases hunting can be at close distances and your target can move in closer than anticipated. For those types of scenarios, the MARS LT series from ATN is the ideal setup.

The LT series is an affordable range of thermal rifle scopes that are ideal for close-range action and make for the perfect entry into the world of thermal optics for the average hunter.

With 6 scope variations in the MARS LT series, there is something for everyone and the list of features is impressive:

• 30 mm Standard Rings
• Lightweight Durable Construction
• Magnification Range 3x to 10x
• One Shot Zero Functionality
• Multiple Reticle Patterns
• Thermal Vision
• 10-Hour Battery Life

Who would the MARS LT Thermal Rifle Scope Series be best suited for?

1. Novice Hunters:

The allure of thermal hunting is strong but often the price tag associated with highly advanced pieces of equipment can be discouraging for new hunters. ATN produced the MARS LT series for just that very scenario and has now given more hunters of all skill levels the opportunity to enjoy hunting with a thermal scope.

2. Woodland Hunters:

Depending on the target you are pursuing, if it lives in heavily wooded areas, chances are your shooting distance will be fairly close. Within the MARS LT series are scopes with varying magnification ranges, 3-6x, 4-8x, 2-4x, and 5-10x, making them the perfect scope for hunting in the woods.

3. Young Hunters:

ATN has made using the LT series rifle scopes incredibly easy without taking anything away from its technological capabilities. Apart from the easy mounting scope rings, the operation buttons and ergonomic functionality of the scope make for simple use out in the field. The One Shot Zero is another great feature that will allow young hunters to ensure their rifle and scope are hitting with pinpoint accuracy, which increases the chances of success and helps to build hunter confidence.

ATN’s Top 5 MARS Thermal Rifle Scopes

1. ATN MARS 4 640 1.5-15X - € 4,299

Specifications:

Pros of the MARS 4 640 1.5-15X:

The large range in magnification from 1.5-15x coupled with an impressive field of view provides the shooter with an array of options, including the ability to pick up animals at distance and track them within close range. No matter the terrain, whether it is open flat country or heavy wooded areas, the adjustment of the scope magnification will be a serious advantage.

One could be forgiven for thinking that a piece of equipment such as the MARS 4 640 1.5-15x would be difficult and complicated to use because of its advanced features, but on the contrary, ATN has designed it with simplicity in mind. The Spin to Zoom Wheel, Tactical Buttons, and ergonomic design all work so well and in unison that it will have the shooter dialing in on distant targets in no time.

Cons of the MARS 4 640 1.5-15X:

Not necessarily a bad criticism but still worth mentioning for those considering the MARS 4 series from ATN. These are powerful thermal scopes with impressive features that are backed by equally impressive technology. Take the time to get to know what each scope is capable of, and how the settings work, understand the instruction manual and ensure you get the most out of your purchase. This all takes time and those eager to get out and start hunting will have to work on their patience a little more.

2. ATN MARS 4 640 2.5-25X - € 4,599

Specifications:

Pros of the MARS 4 640 2.5-25X:

The Obsidian IV Dual Core Gen 4 640x480 60Hz sensor within the MARS 4 rifle scope makes for a formidable thermal scope and performs incredibly well at detecting the smallest of heat sources up to incredible distances.

With the Ballistics Calculator and Smart Mil Dot Reticle, it doesn’t matter what the conditions are, ATN’s innovation and forward thinking toward the shooter’s experience mean they can pull the trigger with confidence. What makes the Mil Dot Reticle even more impressive is depending on the load of the bullet being used, the shooter can actually program the variance between hash marks in Mils.

Cons of the MARS 4 640 2.5-25X:

Weight is always an issue when it comes to the overall setup for rifle hunters, especially those that prefer the challenges of a backcountry hunt. So, with the MARS 4 640 2.5-25x coming in at 1.0kg (2.2 lb.) it can be a hefty addition to the rifle, although, with all that technology jammed inside the scope, a little extra weight can be forgiven.

3. ATN MARS 4 640 4-40X - € 4,999

Specifications:

Pros of the MARS 4 640 4-40X:

It is best to describe the MARS 4 640 4-40x rifle scope as “A long-range hunter's best friend.” With a maximum magnification of 40x, Ballistics Calculator, Smart Mil Dot Reticle, Recoil Activated Video functionality, and an insane thermal detection range of up to 3,300 yards, it is hard to believe there is anything out there that can compete with this scope.

Cons of the MARS 4 640 4-40X:

Let us make no confusion about it, a thermal rifle scope of this quality is going to come with a price tag that may scare off your everyday blind sitting whitetail hunter, but then again this scope is designed for the serious shooter that understands every penny spent on the MARS 4 640 4-40x is worth it.

4. ATN MARS LT 320 4-8X - € 2,099

Specifications:

Pros of the MARS LT 320 4-8X:

Looking to get into the world of thermal hunting, or simply wanting to clean up a few pesky varmints around the ranch? The MARS LT 320 4-8x is the ideal setup. With a medium magnification range, One Shot Zero sighting in function, and 320x240 px Obsidian Core LT thermal sensor, you are ready to go.

Cons of the MARS LT 320 4-8X:

Remember to keep the scope charged because even though the MARS LT 320 4-8x is designed with Ultra Low Power Consumption, all hunters know that sitting out at night time and again, 10 hours can pass by in a flash and no one wants to be caught out with a flat battery just as that hog or coyote steps within range.

5. ATN MARS LT 320 5-10X - € 2,399

Specifications:

Pros of the MARS LT 320 5-10X:

Simplicity and functionality are by far the best qualities of the MARS LT 320 5-10x thermal scope. ATN has made the scope incredibly simple to use without reducing the overall performance and capabilities of the scope.

Coming in at a light 650g (1.4 lb.) the scope is capable of picking up heat detection out to 1,620 yards and has easy-to-use display settings buttons to toggle between zoom magnifications, display brightness, and Black Hot / White Hot modes.

The MARS LT 320 5-10x is a great thermal scope for those hunters that are confident in their shooting abilities at further distances or anyone that is looking to take their crossbow hunting adventures to a different level and can easily add the thermal scope to their crossbow.

Cons of the MARS LT 320 5-10X:

The 10x magnification is great and will certainly extend the range for most hunters, but one just feels that if the MARS LT 320 5-10x had a laser rangefinder built in, it would make for an outstanding piece of equipment.

Conclusion

Anyone that wants to know, what is the best thermal night vision scope? Doesn’t have to look further than the MARS series of thermal scopes by ATN. There literally is something for everyone across the MARS 4 and MARS LT range, with features that cover any situation and scenario.

If you wanted to know from a personal perspective which model this author would choose, it would have to be the incredibly versatile and well-priced MARS 4 640 1.5-15x thermal scope.  The ability to shoot at close and long distances with all the support of ATN’s technology takes all the guesswork out of thermal hunting.