When you and I find ourselves in a store to make a serious purchase, we quickly get lost in front of a vast range of products. There are different models, brands, sizes, functionality, inner filling, etc. It's straightforward to get lost in it. And, for sure, on our way, there can be a sly consultant to sell things at a higher price. But as worldly practice shows, expensive is not always a guarantee of quality.
And on the whole, before making a purchase on which it is necessary to take an impressive sum from the pocket, we must prepare ourselves and our knowledge. At least to ask the right questions in the aftermath. Have a reference point for yourself in choosing the right product.
This golden rule is worth adopting for all occasions in life. Whether this is a house, a couch, a refrigerator, a phone, or appliances and gadgets for your hobby, we all hate to realize at some point that we have bought a fake. At the same time, it is natural for everyone to learn that you will not accept a good quality thing for next to nothing. For this reason, if you care about yourself and your finances, you will not neglect this rule. Why? Because a person earns money to spend it on their needs subsequently. And you can not dispute that recreation for a man is a critical need. And to make it enjoyable, we are ready to buy good quality products to ensure your time is comfortable. Today we will talk about a device of night vision, such as a monocular, which is used in many areas of life, particularly during hunting or watching wildlife. And in this article, we will try to help you a little bit with the choice. What models do you pay attention to so as not to neglect the earlier rules?
How does night vision works?
First, let's understand what a night vision device is and how it works. This will be helpful information for beginners and those already familiar with this device - an excellent opportunity to strengthen their knowledge.
A night vision device is a modern optical-electronic device designed for security activities, hunting, surveillance, etc. When buying a night vision device, or in the abbreviated form, PNV, you should first understand what it represents and what it helps users. Note that they are a particular photoelectronic device that converts the invisible into images visible in absolute darkness. They are given contrast and brightness with color enhancement. The machine of this type was first invented in the early 20th century in the 1930s. Since then, the developers have constantly been improving it, expanding its capabilities, and adding useful features.
There are different models of this device on the market. You can find range glasses, monoculars, binoculars, and scopes. But they all have in common the design of the main components: lens, radiation receiver, a display device, and amplifier. The image intensifier is the heart of any of the above models.
To better understand, let's briefly understand how it works.
We have a surveillance object that we need to monitor. But there is not enough illumination for our eyes to do the job. That's where this marvel of technology comes into play. The lens's entrance lens receives reflected light from the object of observation. The incident light is collected on the lens, and the image of the object is focused on the surface of the EOP, also called a photocad. It is the task of the transducer to amplify the incoming light through the lens and transmit the image of the object to the screen. Specifically, the observer views images through the eyepiece on a fluorescent screen.
But there is a significant point. We must emphasize that this device works if the object we observe reflects a faint light source. If you keep it at night, the moon can be a source. This system of operation of the NVS is called the passive mode of operation. Some time ago, it was a problem that had to be dealt with. And this problem was solved. Therefore, modern models are produced with a built-in infrared illuminator (IR). What's it for? For one simple reason - infrared radiation is not visible to the human eye. Still, the night vision device has enough emitted diodes to give you an object of observation on your lens.
There are two NV units in today's optical market, one based on an EOP (electron-optical converter) and the other based on a digital one. When choosing between them, pay attention to the generation 3+ and 4 (when selecting on the site or in the store of night vision devices, you will repeatedly determine what generation belongs to this or that model. This classification is due to the development of technology. That means the older the generation, the newer the technology used in its creation).
Digital technology works in night vision mode on the principle of a video camera with light sensing matrix conversion into a digital signal. The light is transmitted to the screen, and then the images are sent to the eyepieces.
The principle of a binocular or monocular is the same. The difference is mainly that, based on the name, a monocular has only one eyepiece. Why should it be preferred? They have a compact size; they are cheaper, and it is possible to install them as a scope on a weapon or combine it with binoculars; they have low power consumption; some models can be fixed on a mask or helmet. Because of these advantages, the monocular is the device with which it is worth starting your acquaintance with night vision devices (if you are a beginner). And because of these reasons, this product's experienced consumers still prefer it. Now let's move on to specific models that are worthy of your attention and are rightly called the best.
Luna Optics G3
This instrument is excellent for those who use it during the day and in low light conditions. The lens diameter is 50 mm, and the magnification ranges from x6 to x36. Luna Optics G3 is equipped with a 12.2-megapixel camera. And it is this figure responsible for the quality of the images you get as a result without distortion. And a significant advantage is that you can record high-resolution video at 60 frames per second (suitable parameters if you use it for nature observation, so you can slow down the frames). It's compact, mobile, and weighs only eighteen ounces. It is powered by two CR123A batteries that allow you to use the device for up to three and a half hours without recharging. It must have a simple interface. At night will enable you to watch from a distance of 438 yards. Probably the main drawback is its high price. However, everyone chooses based on their financial capabilities. But it is worth emphasizing that the cost corresponds to the quality.
Bushnell Equinox Z2 6x50
It is waterproof for outdoor use and has a magnification factor 6 times greater than most other night vision models, combined with an effective light gathering tool in the 50mm lens. Built-in Wi-Fi allows users to stream footage directly to a mobile device and even now controls video zoom, image capture, and IR brightness. A built-in IR illuminator allows for comfortable long-distance viewing during the day or at night - although this feature can quickly drain the monocular's battery (and batteries are omitted). Finally, Full HD 1080p video capture is possible, which is respectable for its class.
Firefield Nightfall II 5X50 Gen 1
We see with you in the name of the device that this model belongs to the first generation. Of course, it won't be able to compete with devices of newer generations. But that does not mean that this model is not worthy of our attention. If you are a beginner in this field, it is a great option to buy to get acquainted with the UAV. It has a fifty-millimeter lens, five times magnification. It weighs less than one pound, is portable, easy to use, and great for hunting, camping and stargazing. The Firefield Nightfall II is compact and has a handy handle and a large IR illuminator that gives you a good night's view. And its operating time is up to 8 hours of use.
For those who have used night vision devices of other generations, this model may not seem powerful enough. But we consider all the best examples of monoculars in its segment. And as previously mentioned, it's an excellent option for beginners for under $300.
Carson OPMOD MiniAura Digital Night Vision Monocular
Another example that beginners can use for hunting for the beauty of wildlife. The Carson OPMOD has a 10mm lens with 1x magnification. This product provides the essential benefits of night vision devices at a price that can't be beaten. It is compact and has adjustable dioptres ranging from -4 to 2 DPT. It produces clear images in black and white and functions well as a daytime monocular. A carrying case is sold with this model. You only need to buy three AAA batteries to operate it; it is straightforward to use.
ATN PVS14-4 Multi-purpose Gen 4 Night Vision Monocular
Some of the essential advantages of this worthy device are already mentioned in the title. Firstly, we have already realized that generation plays an important role and indicates that this is a professional class night vision device. Secondly, the manufacturer of this model is ATN. And this company has been a worthy competitor in the market of night vision devices for many years. Now let's move on to the more specific characteristics of the device.
The objective lens size is 27 mm, providing a comprehensive 40-degree field of view. This tactical monocular runs on a single AA battery, giving you up to 40 hours of usage. The company also catered to users who wear glasses; the PVS14 GEN 4 features a comfortably long eye relief of 25mm. It's the kind of gadget that's great for the field. It is not afraid of moisture and does not react to temperature changes. For these reasons, it is worthy of the title of one of the best among other representatives of this segment. Although, for many, its price may be a severe disadvantage. But, please do not forget that we are talking about a quality manufacturer, a quality product. And accordingly, all the privileges mentioned above are reflected in the price.
AGM Global Vision PVS-14-51
If you take any product produced by the AGM company, it is certainly worthy of special attention. For the reason that the company itself guarantees of quality and high performance of the device. The specified model belongs to the III+ generation, designed by U.S. military standards MIL-STD-810G, which means that it is water-, shock-, vibration- and weatherproof and will last a long time. Typically, Generation III+ devices provide a wide-angle field of view, 40 degrees. But this model, thanks to the 3AW2 tube, increases this figure to 51. You can keep this model in your hands all the time because it is equipped with mounts for mounting the monocular on the rifle or fixing it on your helmet.
One significant advantage is that the PVS-14-51 has a 3rd generation auto-adjustable tube with an auto shut-off function that protects the photocathode from excessive light exposure. It has a built-in strong IR illuminator provides a clear image in total darkness. However, it would help if you also considered the fact that it is the one that shortens its operating hours. But in optimal conditions, without additional recharging, it will last you for 50 hours. At the same time, despite such features, it is pretty easy to use. As with the previous variant of the monocular, a severe disadvantage of this copy is the price. But we can assure you that the functions it will provide are worthy of your attention.
Of course, suppose this particular model is too expensive for you. In that case, you can look through their website for the monoculars of other generations while being confident in the quality of the product. After all, this particular company has long worked off its reputation, which now works for it.
If you don't like any of the above models, we will provide a guide you can follow when choosing a general monocular and night vision device. When looking for the best machine, you should consider the following points: hunting conditions, observation, and sighting distance. Sensitivity of the photocathode: the higher it is, the better the images—weight, size. Technique, which has a compact size, lightweight, and a set of useful functions, will give more pleasure from observation. It also should not take much space and not weigh your hands down, which is vital on long hikes. Focus is essential for those users who need to get sharp images.
Important: Don't forget that the manufacturer provides you with quality. But this is far from a guarantee that the device will last a long time. It can quickly break down because of improper use, lack of proper care, and careless attitude towards the technique.
Before using it, you should clearly understand its limits and not leave it on rocks, sand, or wet surfaces. Especially if its specifications do not state that it is resistant to such mechanical influences, in addition to buying the device, you should be clear about where to store it, keep track of every change in its operation and get the batteries out in time. These simple rules will save you and your finances.