Posted: 4/12/2011 7:25:35 PM EDT
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From what I gather, night vision optics are rather pricey and come in a variety of configurations...hand held, helmet/head mounted, weapon mounted, etc. I'd like to obtain something in the future, but most likely won't have a lot of cash for a while. Other bills have popped up lately and need attention. That said, I'm still thinking of obtaining some sort of lower budget hand held night vision optic. I've seen some of the local chain stores carry various hand held models for $150-250 or so. Has anyone used any in this price range, and are they even worth the time?
One part of me sees some value in having something like this as any advantage over those without is always a good thing...but again, are they worth it? For that matter, would one be better off with a weapon mounted night vision optic, or the head/helmet mounted version? My guess is the head/helmet mounted optics are the way to go, but again...that's out of my price range at the moment. Can those with optics provide some advice or suggestions in this regard? Also, if this is covered in another area, please direct me to the appropriate link, or mods feel free to redirect as necessary. Thanks. |
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I had a night owl marine optic about two years ago. Don't waste the money on one in that price range. Even as a novelty it is a waste of money.
The problems they have is that they need to be focused alot, They use batteries (cr123) quickly, for the short range they are good for you still can't properly identify faces, if there hit with bright light most in that range will blow out the tube eventually. I could only get a range of mabe 25-30 yards and after that it was dark again. If you have $150-$250 I would invest in either a good weapons light or mabe low light training. |
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Save up as best you can for the real deal. (2-K range) Even with Gen. 3's, navigation on foot through unfamiliar terrain requires a bit of practice with your particular optic.
At worst, if a major financial need pops up, (auto repair, emergency rm. co-pay, etc.) at least you'll be able to use your NVG savings and start over if need be. They're definately a "nice" to have, but by no means, a must have. PVS 7's are generally a bit cheaper than the 14's and are easier to find used. Be VERY careful you're not buying a stolen unit as well. The manufacturer should be able to tell you who they sold to by the SN. Good Luck |
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Quoted:
you don't need gen 3. army flew choppers for years and years with gen 2+ and they are pretty good stuff. i have driven with ease with my pvs-5c's and have no issues with my pvs-4 rifle scope. add an ir aiming device of your choice and you will own the night. While this is true and in the past I would have agreed at this point the price differences between Gen 2 and Gen 3 have narrowed enough that I believe if you have saved enough for Gen 2 you might as well save a bit more and get the Gen 3. Even if it means sticking the cash in the cookie jar and waiting for next tax time. |
| Against my advice my dad bought some Luna Optics binoculars. I was really suprised by the product. They're gen 1 and I wouldn't consider them a waste of money at all. In fact I'm going to buy some. I was able to see objects out to 300 yards in good detail without IR. When I used da-torch it was even clearer. There wasn't much moonlight. I know they're not supposed to work or whatever, but they do. |