Let's face it. Man is the weakest animal in nature. We have nothing. We do not have sharp claws, we do not know how to run fast, and we do not possess primitive strength. Humans are more likely to lose an open confrontation with any animal of their size in the wild. For God`s sake, we do not even have the opportunity to adequately assess the environment in imperfect weather conditions. In scent, hearing,, and sight, we also cannot withstand the competition. Especially insight.
But, our only but ultimate advantage is the brain. Thanks to him, we managed to survive and build a civilization. Today, we have invented and are using such devices that neutralize all our shortcomings and raise us to the top step of evolution and the food chain.
Night vision technology is probably the most striking example of such a rapid leap in progress because our vision is truly helpless. But, behold, human genius gives us the ability to see in the darkness of the night. And that means he is hunting.
With modern technologies, only one question remains open - is it legal to hunt with night vision. After all, as we all know from the words of Uncle Ben - "with great power comes great responsibility." And the ability to hunt with such incredible devices as, for example, the AGM Apache A-9 - Disputedly needs to establish certain rules and can be regarded as having superpowers.
Where is it legal to hunt with night vision?
If it seems to you those night vision devices, not being a lethal hunting device, are allowed everywhere, you are mistaken. This area is very clearly regulated by law. Moreover, this issue is raised in most of the world's developed countries, including in the countries of the European Union.
For example, in Germany, night vision devices designed to be mounted on firearms are prohibited. The same applies to Belgium, where it is considered a violation even to have such a device with you that is not attached to a rifle. Simultaneously, in the Netherlands, the possession of equipment is not regulated or prohibited, but for hunting, in exceptional cases, a special permit is required. And in Iceland, you can own NV devices, but hunting using them is illegal.
In the US, the situation is also ambiguous. In 13 states, such equipment is prohibited; in 17 - there are several restrictions, and in 20 states, you are not prohibited from freely using your devices. The basic rules are set out in the summary of the state hunting rules for 2010–2011. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night-vision_device#cite_note-HiTechRedNeck2010-41)
In this case, it is difficult to talk about any unified approach to addressing this problem. And different states approach the issue in different ways, and the policy is categorically different.
In Connecticut, everything is simple - night vision devices are legal, and in Illinois, it's even simpler - there, they are 100 percent legal. They are legal in California too. But! Several restrictions will confuse anyone. You cannot use or even carry infrared equipment while hunting. And it is strictly forbidden to use night vision devices with light amplification technology.
The uniqueness of the approaches is sometimes discouraging and strange. For example, in Georgia, night vision devices are prohibited but only allowed for hunting at night. And in Ayda-ho, you can also use incredible devices like the AGM Wolverine-4 NL-3, but also at night and only for hunting coyotes and raccoons. But, and that's not all. You must have all permissions to do this.
The only conclusion that follows from this is that it is always easier to consult with local DNR in advance than to become a victim of not always logical rules.
Does night vision count as artificial light?
As you see from what we have already said, the US government has two main opinions on the legality of using night vision devices. The first thesis is that this area should be strictly regulated by law. The second thesis is that there is no need to control and unify ownership and use this equipment at the highest level. It is better to give this opportunity to local authorities.
Hence, a lot of questions and incomprehensible nuances. And the same questions related to the legality of the use of night vision devices are relevant to the designation of the equipment's distinctive features.
For example, in some states, night vision devices are considered artificial light. Other states define them as a separate category of equipment.
The problem is that most states determine the legality of using night vision goggles while hunting, clearly defining how these devices correlate with state legislation. And to simplify the life of the controlling departments and the hunters themselves, it is vitally necessary to regulate and unify all these nuances at the federal level since the current laws are clearly not enough.
Where is it legal to hunt with red light scopes?
Imaging devices that use infrared vision solve essentially the same problems as devices that amplify light. However, the unique approaches of each state often do not consider these devices to be identical.
Some state authorities explicitly prohibit the use of night vision devices while hunting. I mean devices that generate light radiation. At the same time, Red Lens Technology does not amplify or create light. It follows from this that their use is legal.
And all this is logical and correct. But, there is a possibility that local wildlife agents will question your conclusions. The correct answer is that you need to consult with the relevant department before using or purchasing these amazing devices.
Hunters need to know the law.
Sometimes, the scope or monocular is just a useful attachment and addition to the hunter's weapon. And it looks absurd that someone could try to regulate the use of non-lethal devices.
But, in practice, it turns out that everything is very complicated. Rules and laws change every year, and it is impossible to give any universal advice or recommendations. All we tried to do was convey to you the importance and responsibility that falls on such equipment owners.
Responsibility should arise even at the stage of purchasing such luxury devices as AGM Comanche-22 NL-3 or AGM Comanche-40 NL-1. After all, the unique practicality and incredible convenience can be crossed out when you find out that your state's laws prohibit even holding such equipment in your hands while hunting.
Therefore, remember that asking an extra question will not show you incompetent but will only protect you from potential problems.