It isn't easy to imagine any trip to the forest without proper equipment in the modern world. Moreover, it is impossible to imagine going hunting without useful devices. Modern technologies are so deeply integrated into our lives that it is impossible to imagine a sphere of life where we will not be able to use science's latest achievements.
Recently, the number of new and modern devices has become incredible. And the best part is that they are all available on the free market. The only problem is that the abundance of offers presents the client with a choice problem. Rather, the part of customers who know what they need and for what. But there are still people who are vaguely aware of the new opportunities that the right purchase will provide them.
It is about those who will discuss it today. Our article is for those who regularly make long walks into the wild or are a hunter. We will tell you about amazing devices that blur the difference between day and night and make it possible to see in the dark.
Night vision and thermal monocular and binoculars.
Today there are two main technologies for night vision. It is night vision and thermal vision technology. Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages, but both solve the same problem: to allow you to see in conditions where the human eye is powerless. And the devices themselves are of several types, each of which is ideal for special situations. But first, let's take a look at how each technology works.
Night vision works on the principle of amplifying the light signal. That is, the device's complex design concentrates the available weak light, amplifies it, and allows the operator to observe the environment in a contrasting picture. In a nutshell, night vision echoes the principles of the cat's eye, which sees the world in this way. But, this is realized due to the most complex devices that make up night vision devices.
Naturally, this technology has its drawbacks. As already mentioned, the display of the picture is carried out by enhancing the existing light. That is, it works correctly even in the light of the moon. If the glow is not enough, for example, on a moonless night, then the device will be simply useless. It will become just as useless in bad weather. A downpour or heavy snowfall will not make it possible to disassemble the objects of observation.
Thermal imagers work on a completely different principle. They register a thermal signature and visualize it by displaying a contrast image. These devices are completely independent of light and can work in bad weather conditions. The image received by the operator is extremely informative and very contrasting against the background of the observed location. Such devices have ample opportunities for use, not only for hunting or hiking. They are widely used in a variety of areas of everyday life, from medicine to construction.
Due to the technology's peculiarities, thermal imagers have practically no weaknesses and work under any conditions. But, it should be borne in mind that it is easy to hide from the device. Because the image is built based on the body's remote measurement, it is enough for the object to hide behind an obstacle that will not allow registering the temperature to become invisible.
Monocular and binoculars – what is best for hunting and hiking.
If you have already figured out the work principles, you can think that you are already ready to buy a device and new adventures. But it is not so. Also, you still have to decide which specific type of device will be optimal for you. This is not a superfluous question since both technologies are very complex and the products cost a lot of money. Therefore, it would be great to choose a device that meets all your needs and quickly pays for itself.
To begin with, let's decide that for your purposes, specific devices are not needed that are used for specific tasks. All you need is a compact surveillance device. And in this case, you will have a difficult choice between monoculars and binoculars.
Binoculars are a dual-tube device we've been familiar with since childhood that requires both eyes to operate. The difference from a conventional device is that it provides all the benefits of night vision or thermal vision. The need to use both eyes gives great depth and immersion in the picture. At the same time, binoculars take up a lot of space and require all your attention while working. On the other hand, some models can be attached to a helmet or head and free your hands while working.
Monocular - features a single tube design that retains the full functionality of a night vision device. But, at the same time, it is lightweight, compact, cheaper, and very convenient. It can be placed in a jacket pocket, and all functions are identical to larger devices. Simultaneously, some models allow mounting on a gun and their use as a gun sight.
Monocular use involves the use of one eye. On the one hand, this is an advantage since it allows you to monitor the environment. But, on the other hand, the depth and immersion are not as high as in the case of binoculars. Besides, prolonged observation of an object can cause some discomfort.
Regardless of which type of appliance you choose for yourself, we are sure that you will be satisfied. The main secret is finding a reliable and trusted manufacturer who will provide you with a high-quality device and serve it throughout its entire service life.
If you are a hunter, we advise you to have night vision and thermal devices with you, regardless of their type. And if you are a nature and bird watching lover, your choice depends only on your preferences. Although for such a hobby, monocular remains the obvious choice. But, do not be afraid to experiment and look for what works best for you.