Summary/Overview
The Bushnell Equinox Z night vision monocular has superior construction with a rugged and water-resistant housing that can withstand the toughest conditions.
The Equinox Z use a multi-coated glass objective lens that ensures better light transmission and reduces glare for clear and crisp visuals. It uses an infrared-sensitive CMOS sensor with edge-to-edge resolution for excellent optical clarity.
After being processed via the CMOS sensor module, the image is transferred to a micro LCD where you can magnify it 3.0, 4.5, or 6 times depending on the model you choose.
The Equinox Z monocular has a built-in powerful IR (infrared) illuminator that provides clear images, even in low-light conditions. It also records photos and videos.
The Equinox Z series includes three products: Equinox Z 6×50, Equinox Z 4.5×40, and the Equinox Z 3×30.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High-quality, water-resistant construction.
- Multi-coated objective lens for top-notch image quality.
- Built-in infrared illuminator.
- A carrying case, objective lens cap, and a wrist strap comes with all models.
- Affordable price.
Cons
- Battery life isn’t good.
- Manual focus only.
Unique Features
Optics and Image Quality
The best feature of the Bushnell Equinox Z monocular is its excellent image quality.
This night vision system is equipped with an infrared-sensitive CMOS sensor that processes the image and transfers it to a color liquid crystal display for edge-to-edge resolution and excellent image quality.
Plus, the Equinox Z has fully multi-coated optics that increase light transmission and minimize glare to improve the viewing experience.
Another reason why this unit provides clear images is because its objective lens is made of glass instead of plastic for better light transmission.
Construction
The Equinox Z has a highly durable construction with rugged and waterproof housing.
It is tripod-mountable, which really helps with image stability and reduces arm fatigue.
In addition, the Bushnell Equinox is equipped with a Picatinny rail for accessory mounting so that you can attach compatible accessories like a more powerful IR illuminator.
Magnification
The three Bushnell Equinox Z models differ mostly in terms of their magnification:
- The Equinox 3x30 is equipped with an optical 3x magnification on top of 3x digital zoom.
- The Equinox 6x50 has a 6x optical zoom and 6.6-18x total zoom range.
- The Equinox 4.5x40 has a 4.5x optical zoom and a 5-13.5x total zoom range.
All three monoculars have the same excellent magnification capabilities, full-color viewing, and IR illumination, making them suitable for use during the day and night.
These functions allow you to view full-color images in the day and give a clear view of the target in low lighting conditions.
Performance
All Equinox Z models are equipped with a built-in powerful IR illuminator to light up targets in the night.
To avoid washing-out the image with glare, you can lower the IR brightness, which also conserves battery life. Plus, the Equinox Z has a fast shutter speed for photos, which lowers blurring.
Versatility
From dawn to low-light , the Equinox Z can adjust to various light conditions, which is why all the models (3x30, 4.5x40, and 6x50) are so versatile.
You can use them for hunting, security surveillance, boating/fishing, paintball, stargazing, camping, rescue, etc.
Photo/Video Output
You can use Equinox Z to record images and videos, too.
These night vision monoculars feature a video output port that allows you to connect to a computer or video equipment for live monitoring or recording video.
Additional Accessories
The Equinox Z comes with a carrying case, an objective lens cap, and a wrist strap.
Issues & Concerns
There are a few downsides to the Equinox Z that you should be aware of before investing in it. These include:
Not The Most Intuitive to Operate
The buttons on the Equinox Z are a bit too close together, and the design layout is a bit unintuitive. To get completely accustomed to the unit, you need to go through the manual.
Screen Is Too Bright
Consumers find that even at the lowest brightness setting, the display is a bit too bright, which may not be the best for hunting at night.
Care and Maintenance
When carefully taken care of, this night vision device will last a long time.
Here are a few tips for its proper maintenance and care:
- Keep the Equinox Z away from all heating and air conditioning vents or other heating devices
- Make sure you store it in the carrying case that it comes within a dry, well-ventilated space at a temperature above +15°C (60° F).
- Regularly clean the objective lens using camera lens cleaning supplies.
- Only use a soft, clean cloth to clean the device’s exterior.
- If you plan to store it for a long duration, remove its batteries.
Warranty
A one-year limited warranty backs this Bushnell Night vision monocular.
This service warrants that the product is free from defects in workmanship and materials for a year starting from the day of purchase.
In case of a defect within this warranty period, the brand will either replace or repair the product.
This warranty doesn’t cover damages caused as a result of improper handling, misuse, incorrect installation, or maintenance done by someone other than the Bushnell Authorized Service Department.
Specifications
- Equinox Z 3×30
- Obj. Lens: 30 mm
- Viewing Range: 500 ft/152 m
- Magnification (optical): 3x
- Magnification (with digital zoom): 3.3x-9.0x
- Weight: 15 oz/425 g
- Field of View @ 100 yds/m: 30 ft/10 m
- Equinox Z 4.5×40
- Obj. Lens: 40 mm
- Viewing Range: 750 ft/229 m
- Magnification (optical): 4.5x
- Magnification (with digital zoom): 5.0x-13.5x
- Weight: 22 oz/624 g
- Field of View @ 100 yds/m: 28.5 ft/9.5m
- Equinox Z 6×50
- Obj. Lens: 50 mm
- Viewing Range: 1000 ft/305 m
- Magnification (optical): 6x
- Magnification (with digital zoom): 6.6x-18.0x
- Weight: 27 oz/765 g
- Field of View @ 100 yds/m: 20.5 ft/6.8 myjyu
Where to Buy
You can buy the Bushnell Night Vision Equinox Z Monocular on Amazon.com.
NOTE: if you’re looking for a night vision scope on a budget, check out our guide to the best night vision scopes under $500.
