Night vision goggles for some seem like something out of a science fiction movie. Reserved for the super-tech elite and military, the thought of owning your own night vision goggles seems out of reach. However, as technology has improved, prices have come down allowing the average Joe to have their very own set of night vision goggles for their next hunting trip or just for fun around the house.
Actually purchasing night vision goggles can be tremendously confusing and quite honestly a challenge. About five years ago, we began exploring the industry a little bit closer and it took quite some time before we really understood the lingo and different features of night vision devices. When it comes down to it, understanding how night vision works is actually quite simple.
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Armasight Spark Multi-Purpose Night Vision Monocular CORE...
Night Owl Optics 42mm Night Vision Monocular
Night Owl Pro Nexgen Night Vision Binocular (5X), Black
Bushnell LYNX Gen 1 Night Vision Binocular, 2.5x 40mm
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Armasight Spark Multi-Purpose Night Vision Monocular CORE...
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Night Owl Optics 42mm Night Vision Monocular
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Night Owl Pro Nexgen Night Vision Binocular (5X), Black
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Bushnell LYNX Gen 1 Night Vision Binocular, 2.5x 40mm
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Best Night Vision Monocular Reviews
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Armasight Spark CORE Multi-Purpose Night Vision Monocular
One of the more rugged and versatile options on the market, this Gen-1 device is one of the top reviewed night vision monoculars’s on the market today. With night vision goggles, there are three generations of technology with obviously Gen-1 being the earliest technology. It’s nearly impossible to find Gen-3 devices as they are generally restricted for military use. As a Gen-1 device, this particular model is quite advanced and reli
able.
A fantastic device for the outdoorsman, the Armasight Spark can be used as a handheld, camera adaptable, head/helmet mounted or even weapon mounted. No matter your needs, this particular piece of technology should be able to give you a head start. The built-in illuminator allows you to see clearly in even total darkness and maximized the ability of the user to operate under a wide range of light low light conditions.
We love the fact that it has a built-in IR illuminator, which maximizes your ability to operate the device in very low light conditions.The Spark CORE is a great choice when you’re budget conscious and still need something that delivers clear imaging. You might be slightly turned off by the fish-eye around the outer portion of the viewfinder, but it’s definitely no deal breaker.
In our testing, we were extremely impressed with just how clear the images were. For a rather inexpensive device, the focus was good despite a slight fish-eye around the outer portion of the viewfinder. The construction quality is fantastic and it comes with a two-year limited warranty as well. All in all, it’s an extremely sound device which is a fantastic option for the outdoorsman.
- Resolution 60-70 lp/mm
- Lightweight and Compact
- Weapon Mountable
Night Owl Optics 42mm Night Vision Monocular
One of the best value night vision monocular options, this particular model from Night Owl can be yours for under $200. The Night Owl Optics is a fantastic device for the typical outdoorsman but probably 
isn’t recommended for someone who is looking for a high-end night vision device. This is a device featuring a Gen-1 image intensifier so the technology is a little bit older than other options but it still completely relevant.
The Night Owl seems to be built quite well and although it is an affordable option, the 3-ring lens body is both attractive and robust which means it ideally won’t let you down in the field. The price, however, shows when it comes to the vision. Although the illumination is pretty good, the actual vision is a bit lackluster and the focus is fairly limited while the edges are quite fuzzy.
This model does not ship with batteries which means you should probably pick up a couple cr123 batteries before it arrives so you can test it out right away. It does ship with a black heavy duty nylon belt carry case and the belt loop will fit up to a 2inch belt. All in all, this a good device for the money but you can’t expect high-end results for a device this affordable.
- This compact monocular has an integrated handle strap for more comfort and better handling. Its 42mm lens body is attractive and robust....
- Better-quality generation-1 image intensifier tube
- Built-in columnated infrared illuminator for use in complete darkness or to improve target recognition in any environment
Yukon 4X50 NVMT Night Vision Monocular
Here’s another great quality (affordable) monocular that gives you pretty solid optical quality. We love the fact that it’s very lightweight, weighing in at just 600 grams. It’s also very durable and super simple to operate.
It boasts 4x magnification and combined with its 50mm lens and IR illuminator the Yukon 4X50 NVMT gives you great, clear imaging. With its rubber armored body, this monocular will also be able to handle life off the beaten track like a true champ.
If you’re in need of a monocular that isn’t going to break the bank and still provide you with good quality imaging, the Yukon is definitely worth considering.
- 50-millimeter lens capable of providing 4X night vision magnification with only starlight
- Fully multi-coated lenses decrease glare and improve light transmission
- Comes with protective carrying case, wrist strap, and lens cover travel and prolonged use
Best Night Vision Binoculars
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Armasight Nyx7-ID Gen-2 Night Vision Goggles
If you’re looking for a pair of hands-free bi-ocular night vision goggles built around high-grade image intensifier tubes, the Armasight Nyx7-ID is just for you.
The Armasight Gen-2 night vision goggles are some of the best on the market currently. Naturally, these aren’t the cheapest night vision goggles on the market but they do offer fantastic value.Controlled by the US Department of Defence, these are the real deal for anyone looking for a serious set of night vision goggles.
Head or helmet mountable for hands-free usage, you’ll feel like you’re part of the USMC wearing this bad boy.
We love the fact that these goggles were designed using high-grade optics that still makes use of simple and reliable electronics. The Armasight makes seeing in total darkness possible, providing you with bright and clear imaging.It’s water-resistant, so it’s going to breeze through wet conditions and the fact that it’s so rugged, makes it great for outdoor use. It’s also lightweight and compact, so it’s not going to weigh you down when you’re out and about.
Built with high-grade optics and simple, reliable electronics, the Armasight provides bright and clear night vision images in even the harshest of night vision conditions. Offering a resolution of 47-54 lp/mm images come back extremely clear through the lens providing unparallel vision when compared to other options. In our testing, we were extremely impressed with the range of vision with this particular set of goggles and were extremely impressed with the how big of an improvement the Gen-2 technology is over the Gen-1 technology.
No matter the situation you are in, the Armasight Nyx7 should be the best night vision goggles available to you. It is comfortable wear, has fantastic battery life and will work in all conditions. It is also waterproof which is great for those rainy nights.Some of its key features include the wide-angle infrared illuminator, the auto brightness control, the bright light cut-off and its limited two-year warranty. With its ergonomic design and easy to operate controls, the Armasight Nyx7-ID is truly is a great Night Vision Goggles option to consider.
The Nyx7-ID is a great pair of multi-purpose goggles and you can choose to use it hand-held, head-mounted or helmet-mounted.
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Night Owl Pro Nexgen Night Vision Binocular (California Only)
If your looking for great value night vision binocular’s, look no further than the Night Owl Pro. A fraction of the cost of the Armasight Nyx7, the Night Owl option will provide you with everything the average camper, hunter or explorer needs. Offering a field of view of 53 feet at a distance of 200 feet, you’ll be able to monitor a large sp
ace in the darkness of night.
However, at this time, the Night Owl Pro, is limited to customers in the state of California due to several state laws pertaining to equipment such as this. If you are however lucky enough to live in the Sunshine State, this is my recommendation for the best night vision binoculars. Unless you have a source in the military, these are as good as any on the market.
- Field of view: 200ft at 53ft
- 2 electronic intensifier tubes inside stringer system for precision & control
- Powerful built-in columnated IR illuminator provides clear & bright Viewing in complete darkness
Bushnell LYNX Gen 1 Night Vision Binocular
For those looking for a great alternative to the Night Owl Pro binocular because you live outside the state of California, I recommend the Bushnell Lynx Gen 1 Binoculars. Offering about half the magnification power of the Night Owl, it operates on 2 AAA batteries and will provide you with everything you need for your
night vision needs.
They are listed as offering up to 750 feet but from our hands-on testing, it’s more like 500 feet which is probably more then you’ll ever need. This particular model features built-in infrared technology which of course lends itself to the best night viewing experience.
With a rubberized exterior and non-slip grip casing, the Bushnell Lynx is built to last.
- Quality optics with stunning HD clarity
- 100% quality materials used and tested extensively
- Beautiful design and durability built to last
Different Gen Night Vision Goggles Detials
If you’re looking to invest in a pair of night vision goggles without breaking the bank, then you’re in the playing field of the Best Gen 1 Night Vision Goggles.
What Is Gen 1?
In 4 words…affordable night vision optics. Gen 1 gives you pretty basic night vision capability, which is better than none at all. Generation 1 tech dates back to the 1960’s which means its pretty solid and reliable, making it a great choice for many applications, but there are however limitations such as:
- Depending on the light, it will only be used for up to 75 yards – compared to Gen 2’s 100 and up yards
- You’ll get lower resolution imaging, more static noise and images that aren’t really super bright
- You’ll have a much smaller field of view than compared to the Gen 2 or 3 versions
- Gen 1 optics typically have a much shorter battery life when compared to the Gen 2 or 3 optics
- Gen 1 Night Vision Optics have a shorter life expectancy (about 1500 hours) when compared to Gen 2 (which has 5000 hours) and Gen 3 (with about 10,000 hours)
Generation 1 Night Vision Goggles are great if you want to stay in budget and you’ll be able to do quite a bit with them
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Night Optics D-2MV Gen 1+ Dual Night Vision Goggles
With this goggle from Night optics, you’ll get enhanced night vision thanks to the built-in sensor that guards the goggle against bright light exposure.We love the fact that it’s rugged and lightweight and offers you a true stereo perception. It features a built-in, high power, focusable IR Illuminator and also comes with fully adjustable headgear.This is a great Gen 1 Night Vision goggle which we would be happy to recommend.
- Tactical optics goggles night vision
- Versatile top of the line
- Another quality product
Sightmark SM15070 Ghost Hunter 1×24 NV Goggles
We love the Sightmark SM15070 mainly because it’s lightweight, compact and has a durable construction. It also comes with Sightmark’s Limited Lifetime Guarantee, which just gives you added peace of mind.
This dual tube system goggles offers you a more comfortable viewing system that’s easy on the eyes and gives you more detailed imaging than a single tube system. The powerful infrared illuminator provides you with crisp, clear imaging and because it’s lightweight, it provides you with increased resilience.
You’ll love the automatic shut-off feature which turns off the unit when its exposed to bright light sources, essentially prolonging the life expectancy.
- High quality image and resolution
- Close observational range of focus. High power built-in infrared illumination
- Ergonomic design and quick power-up. 1/4
Armasight Venom Gen 1+ Night Vision Goggles
If you’re looking for an up-to-date Gen 1 night vision goggles that still brings great performance and an affordable price to the table, the Armasight Venom Gen 1+ is it!
These goggles are high quality and highly recommended for hunters, outdoorsmen and security personnel who need to see what goes bump in the night.
The unit comes with an adjustable head mount, making it a hand’s free optic tool that’s convenient and easy to use. The design encompasses all-glass optics and a single switch control, which makes for effortless operating. Weighing in at just 0.3 kg, and boasting a 2-year limited warranty, these goggles are definitely worth recommending.
- High Resolution Gen. 1+ Image Intensifier Tube
- Designed for Hands-Free Operations
- Headgear Included
ATN Viper 1 Gen 1+ Night Vision Goggles
The ATN Viper 1 Gen 1+ Night Vision Goggles is probably one of the most noteworthy hands-free NV optics out there, and it’s also the smallest on the market. The reason for this is because they were originally designed to be a Goggles System for hands-Freee Applications, but it can also be used as a compact monocular or you can attach it to a camera for great nighttime photography.
This Gen 1 night vision goggle delivers high-resolution imaging and comes with 1x magnification. You can obviously also add an optional 4x or 8 x magnifiers to sharpen things up a little.
The ATN Viper 1 comes with a built-in flood infrared illuminator, a simple one switch operation and a limited two-year warranty, which makes it the perfect budget-friendly night vision goggle.
By now you know that Gen 1 isn’t going to give you pro-standard imaging for night time activity, but if you need something simple, effective and budget-friendly, then opting for Gen 1 might just be the best choice you can make when it comes to night vision goggles. If we had to pick just one of these as the overall winner, it would have to be the Armasight Venom Gen 1. With Armasight you always know you’re getting reliable quality and the Venom surely is no exception to the rule. Armed with this Generation 1 Night Vision Goggles, you’ll be making your way through even the darkest of nights with the utmost of ease.
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Best Gen 2 Night Vision Goggles
Night vision optics makes seeing in total darkness possible, regardless of their generation. Image intensifiers collect light (that cannot be seen by the naked eye) and amplify it thousands of times until it becomes visible to the human eye. You might probably be wondering just what the big difference between Gen 1 and Gen 2 is. Well, let’s clear things up: It all comes down to system light grain, system resolution, and photosensitivity.
Gen 1 versus Gen 2
System Light Grain refers to the number of times the light amplification unit amplifies the light. Gen 1 would typically have a Light Grain of 200-900 times, and Gen 2 has a light grain of about 20,000 to 30,000 times. That’s a BIG difference.
System Resolution refers to how sharp and clear the imaging is. Gen 1 has a resolution of less than 1000, compared to the resolution of Gen 2 at less than 6000. Photosensitivity is about the minimum light levels required and the type of light the sensor picks up. Gen 2 far outperforms compared to Gen 1 in the photosensitivity category.
Generation 2 gives you clearer, brighter and crisper imaging, but it’s going to cost you A LOT more than Generation 1 gear. Generation 2 optics is for those who don’t have an issue with investing (considerably) more in order to get the best quality.
Who uses Generation 2 Night Vision Optics?
Because of their price tags, Gen 2 optics aren’t used by average Joe’s and you’d probably find more law enforcement personnel using them for professional applications.
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ATN NVG7-2 Gen 2+ 1x Expandable Night Vision Goggles
Okay, so we love the ATN night vision goggle because of its super lightweight, built from rugged
material and has a wide angle IR Illuminator for Zero Light Operations.
What’s great is the fact that it has a pseudo binocular design that gives you added observation convenience. When you go with a tried and tested name like ATN, you know you’re getting great quality, and the NVG7-2 definitely lives up to that expectation.
The high-performance Gen 2+ technology means you’ll always get clear and crisp imaging and with its flip-up mechanism, these goggles make for the perfect hands-free night vision optics.
- Lightweight, compact rugged goggle System
- Multi-purpose: hand-held, head-mounted or helmet mounted
- Comfortable, Flip-up Headgear
Night Optics PVS-7 Night Vision Goggles
This is probably one of the most widely recognized night vision goggles out there. What we really love is that The PVS-7 is a standard issue in the modern military, which really tells you a lot about its durability an
d functionality.
It has a high-performance Gen 2 image tube, which delivers crisp and clear imaging time after time. Thanks to its bi-ocular configuration, the PVS-7 is super reliable and delivers exceptional performance.
It’s versatile and combat-proven, which makes this a great hands-free goggle. It can also be used hand-held or for long-range observations when you couple it with optional 2x, 4x or 5x magnifiers.
Some of the PVS-7’s top features include simple user controls, automated image tube protection, a built-in infrared illuminator and an IR operation and low battery indicators.
- Tactical optics goggles night vision
- Versatile top of the line
- Another quality product
Night Optics D-221-2S Gen 2+ Standard Dual Tube Night Vision Goggles
The Night Optics D-221-2S is what you need when you want a high performance, modular night visio
n goggles to bring you the crispest images in the darkest of conditions.
We love the advanced features of automatic brightness and gain control. To bring you superior depth perception, the separate image tubes operate independently. The other thing that the stereoscopic design adds is the more natural unaided vision, eliminating the need for interpupillary adjustments, and it also reduces the size and weight of the goggles.
The D-221 is probably one of the most versatile dual tube night vision goggles out there, and it’s an outstanding choice when it comes to night vision optics.
When it comes to Gen 2 night vision goggles, there’s plenty of options you can choose from, and the choice can seem a little overwhelming at first glance, but when you keep in mind what our top performers have on offer, the choice should seem a little less daunting. We hope that you’ve seen just how much of a difference there is between Gen 1 and Gen 2 when it comes to night vision goggles and that you’re now armed with the right information to make your way through the buying process.
- Tactical optics goggles night vision
- Versatile top of the line
- Another quality product
Best Gen 3 Night Vision Goggles
By now you know that night vision optics can either be the 1st, 2nd or 3rd generation. The difference between the generations basically comes down to the type of light intensifier tube used, which is also the heart and soul of night vision optics.
Gen 2 vs Gen 3
3rd Generation night vision optics operate with special chemicals, gallium arsenide, and photocathode, which all work together to bring you the brightest and sharpest imaging and excellent light performance. If you thought Generation 2 was superior, you’re in for a surprise.
Generation 3 is THE REAL DEAL when it comes to night vision. US Military and Special Forces use Gen 3 Autogated optics, which is also the gold standard technology in the night vision industry.
Gen 3 gives you the best low-light performance, better ability for passive operation (so it doesn’t use IR illumination or covert operation), the ability to see in ALL light conditions, the best versatility and the longest life expectancy.
Who Uses Gen 3 Night Vision?
Well, simply put, if you have a Gen 3 night vision goggle (or you’re on your way to buying one) you’re either US military, Special Forces or you just don’t have any limitations on what you spend on night vision optics. These guys cost a pretty penny, but their worth every cent!
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ATN PVS-7 Night Vision Goggle
Imagine walking into a dark room, flipping a switch and the room suddenly lights up with a bright green light…that’s what these goggles are like, only they light up like 300 to 400 yards!
The ATN PVS-7 Night Vision Goggles are combat-proven and with their high-gain Gen 3 image tubes, meet or exceed any expectations. The bi-ocular configuration provides you with crisp and clear imaging and it also delivers rock-solid reliability and outstanding performance, time after time.
We love it for its versatility because it can be used hand-held or hands-free and even for long-range observations when you couple it with 3x, 4x or 5x magnifiers. With its simple user controls, fully automated image tube protection and a built-in IR illuminator, this is probably one of the best Gen 3 Night Vision Goggles out there.
- Product Type: Battery
- Package Dimensions: 31.496 L X 18.796 W X 18.542 H (Centimeters)
- Package Weight: 3.15 Pounds
Night Optics D-321G Gen 3 Dual Tube Night Vision Goggles
Night Optics brings you a great Gen 3 night vision goggle in the form of the D-321G. It’s high performance, modular and can be used as a hand-held or hands-free goggle and boasts dual image intensifier tubes that
give you clear, crisp images in the darkest of night.
We love this versatile night vision goggle because it includes advanced features of automatic brightness and gains control and because each tube operates independently, it allows for superior depth perception. What we also love is the integrated near IR illuminator that enhances your ability to see in complete darkness. This dual tube night vision goggle is one of the most versatile versions on the market today and powerful enough to light up your darkest night like nothing else!
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Night Optics BNVD-15 Gen 3 Autogated Pinacle Dual-Tube Night Vision Goggle
If you need precision stereoscopic depth perception and supportability, feast your eyes on the BNVD-15 from Night Optics.
Utilizing Mil Spec optics, the BNVD-15 gives the operator greater flexibility than ever before with the added all night vision head and helmet mount design. It’s a great choice if you need a lightweight stereoscopic night vision goggle and with its true stereoscopic night visions its ideal for nighttime terrain navigation.
Some of its key features include the fact that its compatible with the PVS-7D and the PVS-14 components and it converts to a 3x Night Vision Binocular. It’s also submersible to 66 feet of water and has been made with durability in mind, which is apparent in its rugged design.
It’s easy to see just why Gen 3 really is the next best thing, and if you’re into some serious nighttime activity, the best option for your night vision optics. Investing in a great pair of Gen 3 night vision goggles might be pricey, but it’s surely going to be worth it every cent in the long run. Our overall winner for The Best Gen 3 Night Vision Goggles has to be the ATN PVS-7 Night Vision Goggle. It’s built with durability in mind, gives the best overall performance and has the best overall customer reports among its competitors. We’d be more than happy to recommend it as one of the very best Gen 3 Night Vision Goggles out there.
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Gen 4 Night Vision Goggle
When it comes to anything beyond Generation 3 Night Vision, things get a little complicated. There’s actually no agreement between the military, law enforcement and the manufacturers of the Gen 4 devices on what exactly we should be calling them.
Some of you might have heard about names such as:
- Omnibus – VII
- Gen III+
- Gen IV
- Filmless & Gated I2
For all goals and purposes, we’ll just stick to Generation 4. They offer you state of the art viewing of up to 1000 yards, if and when you use them under the right conditions, thanks to the gated filmless technology. Check out our article on the best night vision goggles!
What’s so great about Generation 4?
There’s something very awesome about Gen 4, which is the addition of an automatic gated power supply. What this does is precisely and quickly regulates the photocathode voltage, so the night vision device instantaneously adapts to changing light conditions. This gives you total flexibility and the ability to see clearly even when you move around between different light levels.
What’s also new when it comes to Gen 4 is the fact that has no ion film barrier, leading to an increased target identification process at even longer ranges, even in the lowest light conditions.
With Gen 4 you’ll also get the best image quality in very poor light conditions, thanks to the signal to noise ratio is significantly increased.
What’s the catch?
Because they’ve removed the ion film barrier, it means that the night vision device’s life expectancy decreases significantly, from about 20,000 hours to just about 15,000 hours, but seeing that most manufacturers give a standard and pretty solid 2-year limited warranty, it shouldn’t really be any cause for panic.
The other problem is that there are only a handful of manufacturers currently producing the Generation 4 devices, so it might be quite a while before they become readily available to the general public.
And then there’s the price…which might just choke you. Thanks to their advanced imaging quality, you can expect to pay anything in excess of $5000 for Gen 4 night vision devices.
How good are Gen 4 Night Vision Devices?
Gen 4 is as good as, and even better than some of the top Generation 3 devices, and has been tested to be super accurate with applications in ranges of the 1000 yard range.
Why would anyone want a Generation 4 Night Vision Device?
Simply put, the technology on Gen 4 devices is improved. You’ll get much better quality images from Gen 4 devices, no matter what the light conditions are like, something that not even the best Gen 3 devices can live up to.
If you happen to have NO issue with spending oodles of cash on a night vision device, the 4th generation of night vision devices is pretty much the best value you can invest in when it comes to night vision.
That being said, here are some of our top picks for Generation 4 Night Vision Devices:
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ATN 6015-41.ox 4th Generation Night Vision Monocular Goggle – NVMP601540
What you get from this 4th generation Monocular Goggles from ATN is a 40-degree viewing angl
e and a field of view of up to 1000 yards. It comes with a lens system of 35mm per foot.
It uses two AA batteries, and you’ll get about 20 hours of runtime with the IR illuminator running, and around 50 hours of battery life when the IR illuminator is switched off.
This monocular was built with durability in mind, and its super rugged, being totally weather-and-waterproof. Measuring in at 113 x 50 x 56mm and weighing only 0.68 kg ’s, it’s not a massive device, and as we all know, bigger is not always better.
- Head, helmet, and weapon mountable
- 20-50 hours run-time on two 1.5-volt "AA" batteries
- +2/-6 Dioptric adjustment
ATN 6015-4 Gen 4 Night Vision Multi-Purpose Monocular
Designed for the most rugged of applications, the ATN 6015-4 Monocular is lightweight and super versatile.
You can use the unit handheld, or it can be mounted to headgear which gives you the hands-free experience. This monocular was originally designed for the US Military, so you know you’re investing in some seriously high-quality optics, design, and functionality.
We’d recommend this for professional night vision applications though and you won’t be able to purchase this device if you’re outside the US because it’s restricted for sale to the state of California and outside the US.
- Made of the highest quality materials
- Highly durable
- Color : Black
ATN PS15-4 Gen 4 Night Vision Goggle System
Recommended for professional and law enforcement use, the ATN PS15-4 encompasses dual high-performance image intensifier tubes to bring you clear, crisp imaging in even the worst light conditions.
With the help of the built-in IR illuminator, seeing in total darkness becomes a breeze. We love that it comes with comfortable flip-up headgear, fully waterproof housing and automatic brightness control features.
The same restrictions apply to the model, and you won’t be able to get your hands on it if you’re based in California or outside the US borders.
- Dual goggle/binocular
- Hands-Free Use
- Comfortable Flip-up Headgear
Armasight Monoculars List
Sometimes referred to as Night Vision Scopes, night vision Monoculars have only one eyepiece and help you zoom in on targets in the darkest of night. While nighttime vision is a hobby for some, for others it’s a total necessity, which is exactly where the Armasight Monocular steps in, to light up your world like never before. If you’re new to monoculars, first do some research on night vision goggles to find the best option for you.
About Armasight: -With a massive variety of Monoculars (Tacxtactical team talking 50 plus models here) Armasight is probably one of the most renowned Night Vision Device manufacturers out there, and bring you top quality monoculars with some of the most advanced technology available on the market today
The main mission of Armasight is to create a serious presence in the night vision industry, and they support elite military units, law enforcement professionals, first responder agencies and commercial consumers across the globe. Their products are the highest value price-to-performance and combined with excellent after-sales support, their one of the market leaders.
Today we’ll be looking at four of Armasight’s KEY featured Monoculars, which are the Q14 and the Spark CORE Monocular, the PVS14-3 Alpha Gen 3 and the Prime 5x Gen 1
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Armasight Q14 – the Mil-Spec Multifunctional Thermal Imaging Mini-Monocular
This Long-Wave Infrared Multifunctional Thermal Imaging Monocular represents the latest evolution in night vision optics. The LIMTIM Q14 is all about size and weight reduction and power-saving, while still maxing out on the features and functions.
What’s so great about this monocular is the fact that its REALLY small, making it easy to conceal on your shirt pocket, and because it weighs in at just 240 grams, it’s the lightest, fully multi-functional thermal imager available on the market today.
It’s super versatile too, because it can be used the hand held, head mounted, mounted on cameras and digital video recorders and mounted on a weapon rail system using the quick-release interfaces.
The Q14 is also equipped with a digital compass and inclinometer, so it offers you the right tools to interpolate accurate distance to the target and its orientation. The user is in total control with key features such as brightness adjustment, palette selection, electronic zoom, and scene related imaging corrections.
It doesn’t stop there though. The Q14 also has remote Bluetooth capability and its waterproof up to 20 meters. It seems like the Q14 really is a mite-sized powerhouse. While it operates on a variety of 123A format batteries, you’ll get about 1 hour of battery life for the 640×512 focal plane array format. The monocular comes with a diopter range of -5 to +5 diopters and a focus range of 20cm to infinity, making it the perfect choice for a huge variety of applications.
The Q14 is available on 4 different models:
- Q14 TIMM 336 (30Hz) – 336×256, 30Hz Core
- Q14 TIMM 336 (60Hz) – 336×256, 60Hz Core
- Q14 TIMM 640 (30Hz) – 640×512, 30Hz Core
- Q14 TIMM 640 (60Hz) – 540×512, 60Hz Core
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Armasight PVS14-3 Alpha Gen 3 Multi-Purpose Night Vision Monocular Grade A
Commissioned by the US Military in the late 90’s, the Armasight PVS-14 is one of the most deployed night vision monoculars in NATO Armies.
Because this was one of the first real multi-purpose monoculars, it helped fulfill a huge variety of Military needs, and it’s also one of the most popular night vision devices for law enforcement professionals.
We love the fact that this monocular is equipped with a high-performance Generation 3 Alpha tube with manual gain control and a resolution of 64-72 lines per millimeter. Its design is battle-proven and brings you a superb night vision experience. It’s also super lightweight and offers some of the best optics on the market today.
This monocular can be used handheld, head/helmet mounted and weapon/camera mounted, so it’s very versatile.
Because this monocular is fully waterproof, has ergonomic and easy to use controls and comes with a two-year warranty, we’d happily recommend it as one of the most reliable Gen 3 monoculars out there.
- Compact and rugged design with waterproof body
- Head or helmet mountable for hands free usage
- Ergonomic simple and easy to operate controls
Armasight Prime 5x Gen 1+ Night Vision Monocular
We have to admit, there’s really a sense of durability and ruggedness when it comes to Generation 1 night vision devices, which is why we love the Prime 5x from Armasight so much.
It offers you the best possible performance in low light conditions at the lowest possible cost, and it’s truly an exceptional Gen 1 night vision monocular.
It might be an entry-level monocular, but its performance is anything but basic. It’s compact and very lightweight, making it ideal for carrying along on nighttime outdoor excursions. We believe the Prime 5x far outperforms other Generation 1 monoculars and for its very attractive price tag, you’d be mad not to invest in this little beauty.
Weighing in at just 0.73 pounds and measuring in at 194 x 73 x 52 mm, the Prime 5x is a gem when it comes to affordable night vision monoculars.
- 5x magnification
- High resolution Gen 1+ image intensifier tube
- Built in infrared illuminator
Important factors to consider when Selecting Best Night Vision Goggle
Anything emitting heat DIRECTLY gives off light which is picked up by night vision goggles.
There are some important factors to consider when you are looking to purchase NVG (Night Vision Gear). As mentioned, the technology can be extremely complicated but there is no sense in getting tied up in a bunch of tech lingo. Here is what you need to consider when purchasing the best night vision goggles for you:
- Price:- The technology used in NVG is extremely costly which is why you want comprehensive reviews on the best equipment available. At the same time, you want to be mindful of your budget as the range in price is vast. There is a lot to choose from and it is important to be mindful of what exactly you need. While high-end products are of extreme quality and can be the great value, your needs will more than likely be met with a lower end option.
- Functionality:- When it comes down to it, if a device is not easy to use or comfortable to wear, you won’t use it as much as you may want to. Firstly, consider what you will be doing with your NVG as that will ultimately determine your purchase. Will you be in a static position with your NVG? Then perhaps a larger device will be perfectly adequate. Are you required to be mobile? Then considering a smaller option will be very important. No matter what, always ensure the controls on the device are extremely functional and easy to use as you have to remember that you will be using it- in the dark!
- Batteries:- Maintaining power on your night vision device is obviously extremely important as well. There is nothing more frustrating than being out on the field and losing power when you need your night vision most. Obviously, all NVG for civilian use is powered by readily available batteries which are usually either alkaline or lithium. Replacing these batteries can sometimes be expensive which is why I always recommend picking up rechargeable batteries when possible.
- Reliability:- As NVG is typically quite technical, the pieces can also be very fragile if used incorrectly. We review products which are made with the highest quality to ensure that you receive products that don’t just perform but also last. Ensure you are buying your NVG from a brand with a long reputation for quality and be sure to read-first hand reviews before making your purchase (We’ll help you with that).
Taking into consideration the above, you’ll also want to consider the following when selecting the right NVG which is specific to you. Obviously, a lot of the decisions you will have to make are directly related to how you will be using your equipment. Below are three of the main functions of NVG that you should consider closely.
- Resolution:- This is the ability to distinguish the shape of objects and the ability to make out details on objects rather just there outlines. The higher the resolution, the easier it will be to see finer details on what you are looking at. An example of resolution is HD TV which is shown in a higher resolution than standard definition TV. Obviously, an HD TV will provide a higher resolution which provides a clear image. Generally, this is measured as line pairs per millimeter (lp/mm).
- Magnification:- It is important to not get tricked when it comes to magnification. If a lens gives a high magnification, it does not always correspond with a better or more detailed picture. Increased magnification will actually reduce the amount of light that the lens can capture so that more tube gain will be necessary to give an acceptably bright picture under very dark conditions. Gain is the level to which the image intensifier will amplify the existing ambient light. The more gain generally the stronger the image.
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There are a variety of different brands which stand out from the rest. With any product which is technical, choosing an off-brand name can often cause disappointment upon purchase. Often times, the quality of the parts is much lower and you will find that the devices will ‘burn -out,’ after an extended period of time. Below are products which have been both reviewed first hand and by hundreds of others who have purchased the product and had much experience with them.