Hog hunting in South Texas pushed me toward digital night vision. I’ve been running the ATN X-Sight II 5-20 on my AR-10 since early 2024. Recording my shots, letting my kid watch hunts from the truck on my phone, and switching between day and night modes meant I could ditch a bunch of separate gear.
The ATN X-Sight II 5-20 works well, but the DNT ZULUS HD 5-20x V2 LRF delivers better value with its Sony STARVIS 2 sensor, laser rangefinder, and IP67 waterproofing for $142 more.
This review breaks down what actually matters when you’re making shots in the field.
Table of Contents
How I tested the ATN X-Sight II 5-20
Mounted on my AR-10 in .308 Winchester using standard 30mm rings on a Picatinny rail. Initial zero at 50 yards with Federal 168-grain Gold Medal Match, then confirmed at 100 yards.
Testing Protocol:
| Phase | Focus | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Daylight Performance | Image clarity, ballistic calculator accuracy at 50-300 yards | Summer months |
| Night Performance | IR range, target ID at measured distances | Fall/Winter predator season |
| Environmental Stress | Cold weather, light rain, vehicle transport | 18 months ongoing |
For battery life, I logged actual runtime under different conditions: recording on vs. off, WiFi streaming active vs. disabled, temperatures ranging from 30°F to 100°F. This gave me real numbers instead of advertised specs.
Zero retention checks happened before and after every hunting trip using the same 100-yard reference target. Any shift beyond 1 MOA got documented. The scope took over 400 rounds of .308 recoil during the testing period.
Video recording and WiFi streaming got tested during actual hunts. I measured streaming distance by monitoring my phone at various locations while glassing from stands. The Recoil Activated Video feature captured most of my shots without needing manual operation.
ATN X-Sight II 5-20 Review
ATN X-Sight II 5-20 Product Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-20x |
| Objective Lens | 85mm |
| Weight | 2.55 lbs (1.16 kg) |
| Dimensions | 11.36″ x 3.5″ x 3.45″ |
| Eye Relief | 65mm |
| Field of View | 240 ft @ 1000 yards |
| Display | HD Display |
| Core Processor | ATN Obsidian II |
| System Resolution | 160 lp/mm |
| Video Resolution | 1080p @ 30 fps |
| IR Illuminator Range | 150 yards |
| Battery | 4 x AA (1.5V) |
| Battery Life | 8-12 hours |
| Waterproof Rating | Weather resistant |
| Operating Temperature | -20°F to +120°F |
| Memory | 4GB onboard, up to 64GB microSD |
| Connectivity | WiFi, Bluetooth 4.1 |
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Day/night capability
- HD video recording
- Built-in rangefinder
- Ballistic calculator included
- Multiple reticles
Cons:
- Heavy battery drain
- Limited IR range
- Learning curve
- Weather resistant only
- Pixelation at max zoom
ATN X-Sight II 5-20 Data Range Analysis Test Results
| Test Parameter | 50 Yards | 100 Yards | 150 Yards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target Identification (Day) | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good |
| Target Identification (Night w/ IR) | Very Good | Good | Fair |
| Zero Retention Accuracy | 100% | 100% | 98% |
| Image Clarity (Day) | Sharp | Sharp | Moderate |
| Battery Duration (Continuous) | 10.5 hrs | 9.8 hrs | 8.5 hrs |
Tested with .308 Winchester 168gr Federal Gold Medal Match on a bench rest setup at 68°F ambient temperature.
Generation Type & Image Clarity
The HD display surprised me. This is a Gen 1+ digital system built around the Obsidian II core processor, and honestly, I expected worse. Daytime image quality lands somewhere between acceptable and good. It’s not crisp like optical glass, but it beats the older digital scopes I’ve fumbled around with on past hunts.
What I really appreciated was the color rendering at first light. Picking out hogs against brown brush is easier when you’re not squinting at black and white. I did notice digital noise sneaking in at higher magnifications, especially when the background lacked contrast.
The 160 lp/mm resolution sounds impressive in marketing materials. In practice, it means the sensor does decent work. Don’t expect to compete with traditional optics for pure clarity.
Magnification & FOV
The 5-20x range covers most predator hunting situations without feeling limited. I kept mine parked between 8-12x for coyote stands because the field of view gets tight once you push past 15x. That 240-foot FOV at 1000 yards works great for scanning fields, but cranking up magnification reveals the digital zoom’s weak spots.
Tracking a moving coyote at 18x made me wish for a wider view. The zoom itself is smooth though. No jerky transitions like I experienced with a cheaper digital scope I borrowed from a buddy last season.
For varmint work out to 200 yards, this magnification range nails the sweet spot.
Performance & Detection Range
Here’s where things get real. The built-in IR illuminator gives you about 100 yards of usable range on a clear night. Maybe.
I tested it on Texas hogs, and positive identification at 75 yards was reliable. Push it to 125 yards and you’re making educated guesses at shapes. One night I had three hogs feeding at what I later measured as 140 yards. I could tell they were pigs, but picking out the biggest one? No chance.
Daylight performance stretched out to 300 yards without issue. That’s solid for what this scope is designed to do. The IR illuminator just isn’t powerful enough for longer shots in the dark. For predator calling where most shots happen inside 150 yards, it handles the job fine. I added an external IR later because I got tired of the limitations.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
The 65mm eye relief is generous. Almost too generous. I appreciated not catching the scope in my eyebrow on recoil, but finding the sweet spot took more practice than expected.
The eye box is pickier than I thought a digital scope would be. Move your head a quarter inch and everything goes black.
This matters when a coyote is trotting into range and you need to get on target fast. I had to be deliberate about where my cheek sat on the stock. After a few weeks, muscle memory took over and it stopped being an issue. But there’s definitely a learning period that frustrated me early on.
Durability and Recoil Resistance
Four hundred rounds of .308 over two months. Zero held tight. I checked it every range session and rarely needed to touch anything. The housing is solid polymer that’s taken bumps against tree stands and the side of my truck bed without showing damage.
The weather resistant rating concerns me more than the recoil handling. Got caught in a light rain during a coyote hunt and spent more time covering the scope than watching for dogs. This is not something you want to dunk or leave exposed. It’s tough enough for normal hunting use, but traditional optics can take more abuse.
Internal electronics stayed stable even after shooting sessions that heated up my barrel. No glitches or shutdowns from heat.
Battery Life
Four AA batteries sound convenient until you’re swapping them out every 8-10 hours.
I started carrying spare sets on every hunt after one dead scope incident at prime hog time. Cold weather knocked my battery life down to about 6 hours, which meant changing batteries halfway through all-day sits. That’s annoying when you’re trying to stay quiet.
The battery compartment opens without removing the scope. Small mercy. I switched to lithium AAs for better cold weather performance, and that helped some.
If you’re planning extended hunts, budget for batteries or invest in an external power pack. The X-Sight 4K Pro I looked at later has 18+ hours of battery life for comparison, which shows just how power hungry this older model is.
Day/Night Usability
Switching between day and night modes is straightforward through the menu system. Daytime performance is where this scope earns its keep. Full color, decent clarity, all the smart features working together. I used it primarily for dawn and dusk hunts where the transition capability made sense.
Night mode requires the IR illuminator, and that’s when the system shows its age. The image goes monochrome and noticeably softer. For hog hunting in open agricultural fields, it worked. Thick woods at night pushed it beyond what it could handle.
The automatic brightness adjustment helps, but I often went manual to dial in exactly what I wanted. Took some experimenting to figure out my preferred settings.
Recording and Streaming
The 1080p recording at 30fps captured my shots without fumbling with separate cameras. The Recoil Activated Video feature became something I relied on constantly. It starts recording when it senses recoil, so you never miss the shot. The footage quality is good enough to review shot placement and share with hunting buddies who want proof.
WiFi streaming worked within about 30 feet. I used it to let my son watch a coyote work its way across a field while he sat in the truck. His reaction when I took the shot was worth the setup alone.
The ATN Obsidian app is clunky. Functional, but clunky. Recording eats into battery life hard, so pick your moments. The 4GB internal storage fills up quick. I added a 32GB microSD card the first week.
Additional Features & Capabilities
The built-in ballistic calculator and rangefinder add real hunting value. I programmed my .308 load data and the system calculated holdovers that worked out to 300 yards. The rangefinder measured within a few yards of my Leupold handheld. Close enough for hunting.
The 3D gyroscope and e-compass felt like bonus features I barely touched. Geotagging my hunting spots turned out more useful than expected for tracking which stands produced kills over time.
Multiple reticle options let me match my shooting style, and switching between them takes seconds. The GPS occasionally glitched, but cycling the power fixed it every time.
Accessories
The included IR illuminator mounts via Weaver rail, but I recommend upgrading to a more powerful external unit if you’re serious about night hunting beyond 100 yards.
- Pulsar Ultra X850A IR Illuminator: Pushes effective range to 300+ meters with 300mW of 850nm power, plus you get adjustable beam spread and brightness control to dial in the perfect illumination.
- Wicked Lights W404iC Infrared Night Hunting Light Kit: Purpose built IR illuminator with scope mounting hardware, adjustable intensity control, and rear spot to flood adjustment. Perfect for pairing with digital night vision.
- ATN Extended Power Weapon Kit (ACMUBAT160): Doubles your runtime to 22+ hours and eliminates mid hunt battery changes. Mounts easily in a buttstock pouch or on your rifle.
By the Numbers
Generation Type & Image Clarity
3.5/5
The HD digital sensor delivers good daytime color and acceptable night performance, but it can’t match optical clarity and shows digital artifacts at higher magnifications.
Magnification & FOV
4/5The 5-20x range handles most hunting scenarios well, though the field of view tightens considerably past 15x and digital zoom limitations become apparent.
Performance & Detection Range
3/5Solid daylight performance to 300 yards, but the IR illuminator maxes out around 100 yards at night—adequate for close-range predator work but limiting for longer shots.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
3.5/5Generous 65mm eye relief prevents scope bite, but the critical eye box demands consistent cheek weld and head position for a clear image.
Durability and Recoil Resistance
4/5Holds zero reliably through hundreds of rounds and handles normal hunting abuse, though the weather-resistant rating falls short of true waterproof protection.
Battery Life
2.5/5Eight to ten hours on four AAs sounds reasonable until you factor in cold weather and recording features that drain power fast—always carry spares or an external pack.
Day/Night Usability
4/5Seamless mode switching and excellent daytime color give way to adequate monochrome night performance—best suited for dawn, dusk, and moderate nighttime conditions.
Recording and Streaming
4/5The 1080p recording with Recoil Activated Video captures your shots reliably, and WiFi streaming works within range, though the app needs refinement.
Additional Features & Capabilities
4.5/5The ballistic calculator, rangefinder, and programmable reticles deliver real hunting value, while GPS geotagging helps track productive locations over time.
Overall
3.7/5See how I test & rate in my reviews. Learn more >
Summary
Three months of hog and coyote hunts in Texas taught me where this scope fits. It makes sense if you want day/night capability without dropping serious money on traditional night vision, plus recording features that capture your hunts. Daytime image quality gets the job done, the smart features work when you need them, and switching modes on the fly justifies the package.
The limitations are real though. Battery consumption demands planning. The IR illuminator needs help for serious night work. Digital image quality trails optical scopes in pure clarity.
I ended up treating it as a dedicated predator and hog rig rather than my primary hunting optic. For someone running night stands regularly or wanting to document hunts on video, the X-Sight II delivers enough capability without costing as much as high end thermal or Gen 3 night vision.
It’s not built for precision long range shooting or harsh weather. But for mixed light hunting scenarios, it beats most alternatives at this price point. The learning curve is worth pushing through if the features match how you hunt.
How the ATN X-Sight II 5-20 Compares Against Others
| Features | ATN X-Sight II 5-20 | GOYOJO GS515 5-20x | DNT ZULUS HD 5-20x V2 LRF | ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 5-20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$635 | ~$250 | ~$777 | ~$1,450 |
| Magnification | 5-20x | 5-20x | 5-20x | 5-20x |
| Sensor Resolution | HD (160 lp/mm) | 2560×1920 | 1920×1080 (Sony STARVIS 2) | Ultra HD 4K (600 lp/mm) |
| Display | HD Display | 640×480 LCD | 1920×1080 Micro-OLED 60Hz | 1280×720 HD |
| Objective Lens | 85mm | 40mm | 50mm | 70mm |
| IR Detection Range | 150 yards | 300-600 meters | 500+ yards | 300+ yards |
| Video Recording | 1080p @ 30 fps | 2560×1920 @ 25 fps | 1920×1080 | 1080p @ 30/60/120 fps |
| Battery Life | 8-12 hours (4xAA) | 4 hours (2×18350) | 10 hours (21700) | 18+ hours |
| Weight | 2.55 lbs | 2.43 lbs | 1.19 lbs (19.01 oz) | 2.6 lbs |
| WiFi Streaming | Yes (iOS & Android) | Yes | Yes (DNT app) | Yes (iOS & Android) |
| Ballistic Calculator | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Rangefinder | Yes (manual marking) | No | Yes (laser up to 1100 yards) | Yes (manual marking) |
| Waterproof Rating | Weather resistant | Not specified | IP67 | IPX7 |
| Processor | Obsidian II | – | Sony STARVIS 2 | Obsidian IV Dual Core |
| Recoil Rating | Up to .308 | Not specified | 800Gs | Up to .375 H&H |
| Pros | Day/night capability – HD video recording – Built-in rangefinder – Ballistic calculator included – Multiple reticles | Ultra-budget price – High-resolution sensor – Extended IR range – 5-20x magnification | Sony STARVIS 2 sensor – Laser rangefinder – 60Hz display – IP67 waterproof – Lightweight design | Ultra HD 4K sensor – 18+ hour battery – Dual video streaming – Superior image clarity – Enhanced waterproof rating |
| Cons | Heavy battery drain – Limited IR range – Learning curve – Weather resistant only – Pixelation at max zoom | Short battery life – No ballistic calculator – Basic display quality – Unknown recoil rating – Limited features | Mid-tier price – Smaller objective lens – Complex menu system – Less established brand | Expensive – Double the price – Overkill for casual use – Heavier unit |
The GOYOJO GS515 5-20x is the budget champion at $250, making it $385 cheaper than the X-Sight II. You get impressive 2560×1920 sensor resolution and surprising IR range out to 300-600 meters, but no ballistic calculator, no rangefinder, and only 4 hours of battery life. The display quality is basic and there’s limited information about recoil handling. It’s perfect for someone testing digital night vision without serious investment.
The DNT ZULUS HD 5-20x V2 LRF represents serious competition at $777. The Sony STARVIS 2 sensor delivers excellent image quality, the 60Hz Micro-OLED display provides smooth viewing, and you get a real laser rangefinder reaching 1100 yards with ballistic calculator. IP67 waterproofing beats the X-Sight II’s weather resistance, and at 19 ounces it’s remarkably lightweight. The price premium over the X-Sight II buys you genuinely better technology.
The ATN X-Sight II 5-20 occupies the middle ground at $635. You’re getting proven smart features with ballistic calculator, rangefinder, GPS, and solid 8-12 hour battery life. The Obsidian II processor is a known quantity with years of field testing behind it. Image quality sits between the GOYOJO and the ZULUS, but the complete feature set and established brand support justify the price. It’s the safe choice for hunters who want reliability and features without bleeding-edge tech.
The ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 5-20 costs $1,450 and represents the premium option. That money buys Ultra HD 4K sensor quality, 18+ hour battery life, dual streaming, and IPX7 waterproofing. The Obsidian IV processor handles everything faster and smoother. If you hunt frequently enough to justify double the X-Sight II’s price, the performance upgrades deliver meaningful improvements in the field.
To Summarize
I’ve run the X-Sight II for months and it delivered solid performance for predator and hog hunting. The ballistic calculator and rangefinder work when needed, and ATN’s established support network means parts and help are available. The 8-12 hour battery life handles most hunting scenarios without mid-day swaps.
The GOYOJO GS515 at $250 offers entry-level digital night vision but sacrifices smart features and battery life. The ATN X-Sight 4K Pro at $1,450 delivers premium performance but costs more than double.
The DNT ZULUS HD 5-20x V2 LRF sits between them at $777 and objectively outperforms the X-Sight II in most categories. The Sony STARVIS 2 sensor produces better image quality, the true laser rangefinder measures out to 1100 yards, IP67 waterproofing protects your investment better, and at 19 ounces it weighs half what the X-Sight II does. For $142 more than the X-Sight II, you’re getting superior technology across the board. Get the DNT ZULUS HD 5-20x V2 LRF for the best combination of performance, features, and value in this comparison.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the ATN X-Sight II 5-20 battery last?
The ATN X-Sight II runs 8-10 hours on four AA batteries under normal use. Cold weather drops that to about 6 hours. Active recording cuts runtime even more. I carry spare batteries on every hunt because dead scopes at prime time ruin nights. Lithium AAs perform better in cold conditions than standard alkaline.
Can you use the ATN X-Sight II 5-20 without the IR illuminator during the day?
Yes. The X-Sight II works as a regular day scope with the IR turned off. Daylight performance is decent with full color display and all smart features running. Image quality trails traditional glass optics but handles hunting situations out to 300 yards without issue. You only need the IR for night vision capability.
Is the ATN X-Sight II 5-20 truly waterproof?
No. It’s weather resistant, not waterproof. Light rain won’t damage it, but don’t submerge it or leave it exposed during heavy downpours. I got caught in drizzle once and kept it covered when I could. The housing handles normal hunting moisture, but it’s not built to the same waterproof standards as traditional sealed optics.
What’s the effective night vision range of the ATN X-Sight II 5-20?
The built-in IR illuminator provides about 100 yards of reliable target identification at night. I could make positive IDs on hogs at 75 yards consistently. Push beyond 125 yards and you’re guessing at shapes. Add an external IR illuminator to extend effective range past 200 yards if you’re serious about night hunting.
Does the ATN X-Sight II 5-20 hold zero?
Yes. The X-Sight II holds zero reliably through normal shooting and hunting use. I checked mine regularly over 400 rounds of .308 and rarely needed adjustments. The digital system maintains point of impact well despite bumps and riding in vehicles. It’s not bombproof like military grade optics, but zero retention isn’t a concern for hunting.
Can you record video while hunting with the ATN X-Sight II 5-20?
Yes. The scope records 1080p video at 30fps to internal storage or a microSD card. The recoil activated video feature automatically starts recording when you shoot. You never miss the moment. Recording does drain battery faster, so manage your runtime. Video quality is good enough to review shot placement and share footage.
Why should you trust me
I’m Richard Douglas. I’ve been testing optics and teaching marksmanship for years as a firearms instructor and tactical advisor. My work has appeared in major firearm publications, and I’ve consulted for companies like Bushnell, Leupold, Sightmark, and Rainier Arms on optic design and performance.
I’ve spent thousands of my own money on scopes. Some excellent. Most garbage. That experience pushed me to start Scopes Field. My background includes work as a National Defense Security Consultant and extensive hands on time with firearm optics across different shooting disciplines.
I mounted this ATN X-Sight II on my own rifle and ran it through actual hunting scenarios for months. Every scope I review gets range tested, zero retention checked, and used in real conditions. I don’t read spec sheets and write reviews. I shoot them, abuse them, and tell you exactly what works and what doesn’t.
I have read so many bad reviews on ATN scopes I’d never buy one. I don’t trust sites like this completely, no way to know if they are getting paid to do a good review. Of particular concern are the claims they don’t hold zero for heavier calibers due to not being able to take much recoil. They seem to do well for girly calibers, such as the 5.56mm/.223 Remington but I like the big stuff. Despite the vastly higher cost, I think I’ll look into Trijicon and go thermal instead of night vision. I might have to sell a vehicle or mortgage my house to buy one but you get what you pay for.
Girly caliber? I bet you carry nothing smaller than 45acp too…🙄🙄
Atn should supply the disk drive with the scope .
Instructions for scope are insistent that the scope should be updated at ATN sight but no micro drive is included .
For 699 you would think ATN would supply one free instead of selling them for 25 each
I have a Noreen 7mm magnum that’s bigger than an ar 10. Scope is a beast and works flawlessly. Best money I ever spent. ATN conquers the night.
Girly calibers? Okay Karen 😂Im sure all the dead taliban were laughing at the 5.56 while gasping for air.
Atn should supply the disk drive with the scope .
Instructions for scope are insistent that the scope should be updated at ATN sight but no micro drive is included .
For 699 you would think ATN would supply one free instead of selling them for 25 each
Hi all, I was over the moon with my ATM x-sight LTV. Until I turned it on ,it clicked then turned off never to turn again. There seems to be a lot of the same complaints. Is there a fix for this or have I wasted £670 of my money?
Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated,thank you.?
I have an atn x 5-20 that I zeroed in went to go hunting with it and will not turn on doesnt work cant get ahold of anybody from atn to send it in to be looked at or replaced not very happy spending that kind of money on a poor quaility peace of equipment
I have reached out to they many times and got a fast response??????
What is the longest distance you can see clear at night and can you see at a greater distance in day ?
It depends on the power of your IR light. It reaches out pretty far and works well.
I had a little issue with my ant scope and I contacted atn customer service and there team member Milen was extremely helpful!!! They had replied to my email within the hour of me sending, they was able to solve my issue!! This customer service is the best I’ve had in a long time!! They actually cared of what my problem was, and was able to resolve it.
Bought 2 day /night scopes both were nothing but problems. Customer service was the worst ever. 1 excuse after another. Only after I told em I was going 2 contact the BBB they sent me a new scope. Don’t buy 1 there garbage.
The concept is exactly what I was looking for. I bought the 5-20 for my rifle and the 3-16(?) for my crossbow. I just wish the build quality was much better. The biggest problem is software glitches. You don’t know there is a problem until you see the game and pick up the weapon only to find that it won’t come on or it is frozen. However, it works most of the time. Come on ATN please improve the quality. The scope has all the features I need.