After trying out the Pulsar Forward F155 digital night vision, which you can read about here: Forward F155 Review, I decided to check out a different digital night vision unit for comparison, namely the Sightmark Photon RT 6.5X50.

Now, these two units are in different classes of both performance and cost, but it’s still worth making a comparison based on the intended use.   Whereas the Forward F155 is a unit meant to be an add-on to an otherwise daylight rifle, the Sightmark Photon is a dedicated night-time optic (with some daytime utility).   With the Forward F155, I found 400 yard hits in the dark very doable with a little help from an external laser illumination unit.  The Photon RT is better tailored for ranges inside of 200 yards.   Based on this, I would primarily think of the Photon as an optic for rimfires, pistol calibers, or rifles dedicated to short-range varmint work.

RATINGS:

Value…………………..5/5 The Photon units rank, price-wise, in the same range as most first-generation conventional night vision units, but their performance blows first generation stuff out of the water.

Performance………..4.5/5  Great clarity and visibility on close targets, but somewhat limited past 200yds.

Durability…………….4.5/5  It is sturdy and well-made, I don’t doubt this could hold up to a fair amount of rough field use.

User Friendliness….4.5/5  the controls aren’t bad, fairly intuitive, a little time with the owners manual makes a big difference.

Availability……………5/5    These can be had on Amazon and some of the major optics outlets.

That leaves this unit with a score of 94%.   That is based on selecting this unit with certain limitations in mind.  It’s not a long range optic, it’s a riflescope that gives good clarity and illumination within 200 or 300 yards.    If you need something for close range varmint control (where lawful to use night vision for such purposes), this is a unit that gives the best bang for the buck.  Unlike similarly-priced first-generation night vision units, digital night vision is not damaged by daytime use, meaning your dedicated night-vision rifle can actually get some daytime range time for a change.

I received this product as a courtesy from the manufacturer via Spotter Up so I could test it and give my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give this product a good review. All opinions are my own and are based off my personal experience with the product.

*The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the original authors and contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Spotter Up Magazine, the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.