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Posted: 1/12/2015 7:40:41 PM EDT
Budget is 5k$ Most likely gonna order tomorrow if TNVC is open.
Below is what a friend who knows about NV and I came up with. I already have a USGI RINO mount, I'm not opposed to buying a better mount, but figured I'd get used to everything so I can decide what my likes and dislikes are first. What is the preferred color for a infrared beacon? 
Already bought this 
UPDATE 1/14 Ok below is what I ended up ordering today. Thanks for y'all's suggestions. I plan on picking up a TW helmet in the future most likely before this stuff comes in the mail. Should have everything late March. 
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Posted: 1/12/2015 7:56:45 PM EDT
[#1]
I asked the same question a while back and was steered away from the nightcap by everyone. They say it's a handy thing to have but you need a helmet for your initial setup. Much more sturdy and comfortable.
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Posted: 1/12/2015 8:08:58 PM EDT
[#2]
The Protec is good for the $$$. The half I think for EarPro. Good luck on the NV. I wish I could afford a IR laser like the one you are getting. Nice job
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Posted: 1/12/2015 8:29:56 PM EDT
[#3]
Disclaimer - far from an "expert"!
Not sure I understand the "color" for IR beacon... seems like it will show up as bright green regardless. Agree with the helmet vs nightcap thing (even though I don't have a nightcap - used the same stability reasoning myself). I have two - a Opscore FAST bump (bulit-in shroud), and a Team Wendy Exfil Ballistic. TW is slightly more comfortable, certainly more durable, but 4+ times the cost. RINO mount - perfectly serviceable, and not $400+. Excellent choice on the NVD - you'll be very happy with it. |
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Posted: 1/12/2015 9:06:28 PM EDT
[#4]
I prefer my nightcap over my helmet most times. With the gi rhino mount I find it lets you get the nod closer to your head with less cantilever effect. You can always get a helmet down the road as well.
The super tac is a bad ass light. Works damn well out to 600yd or so. Quite concentrated and minimal spill. I do run a butler cap with small hole drilled in it for a diffuser inside of 100yd. |
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Posted: 1/12/2015 9:10:00 PM EDT
[#5]
go for the team wendy LTP over the nightcap
overall i think you would be happier with it, you can always pick the nightcap up later if you want something super compact other than that looks like a great way to get your feet wet |
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Posted: 1/12/2015 9:13:15 PM EDT
[#6]
I love my nightcap. Nice being able to stuff it in a pocket when not being used. But, if you're going to be doing a bunch of Rambo shit you might want a helmet.
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Posted: 1/12/2015 9:21:27 PM EDT
[#7]
Thanks for the suggestions. Keep them coming.
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Posted: 1/12/2015 9:36:23 PM EDT
[#8]
Same disclaimer as above...I am not an expert, and I did not stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night.
 I have however been using a PVS-14 for about eight+ years, and have tested most every helmet and mount combination commonly available, including the Nightcap.
The Nightcap and helmets both have their place; different tools for different tasks. I'd be inclined to recommend starting with a bump helmet, particularly since you plan to use a USGI Rhino mount. FTO is suboptimal on the Nightcap. Since it appears to be within your budget, I would recommend the TW LTP. It is arguably the most adjustable/comfortable of the helmet types generally available, and the moulded in aluminum insert is a bonus. Comfort is absolutely key when selecting headgear! The only exception is if you plan to run OTH ear pro/comms headset, in which case the OC is a better option. I am assuming that you don't need the expense and weight of ballistic, since you are considering the Nightcap. Hope this helps, and you will definitely like your new rig. |
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Posted: 1/12/2015 9:54:42 PM EDT
[#9]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Same disclaimer as above...I am not an expert, and I did not stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night. I have however been using a PVS-14 for about eight+ years, and have tested most every helmet and mount combination commonly available, including the Nightcap.
The Nightcap and helmets both have their place; different tools for different tasks. I'd be inclined to recommend starting with a bump helmet, particularly since you plan to use a USGI Rhino mount. FTO is suboptimal on the Nightcap. Since it appears to be within your budget, I would recommend the TW LTP. It is arguably the most adjustable/comfortable of the helmet types generally available, and the moulded in aluminum insert is a bonus. Comfort is absolutely key when selecting headgear! The only exception is if you plan to run OTH ear pro/comms headset, in which case the OC is a better option. I am assuming that you don't need the expense and weight of ballistic, since you are considering the Nightcap. Hope this helps, and you will definitely like your new rig. Considering adding the TW LTP to the bundle. I use Howard leight ear muffs will this not interface? ETA a hoe do I determin the size of my melon? I'm sure I'm XL, but just wanting to make sure. |
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Posted: 1/12/2015 10:15:57 PM EDT
[#10]
I am not particularly familiar with the Howard Leights as I have been using Sordin/MSA and TCI for many years. Are you planning to run them with an OTH [over-the-head] headband, or using some form of swing-up rail mounted adapter?
My experience with a borrowed TW is that OTH headsets do not work well because the helmet suspension and headband interfere. With my OCs, I run the headband BETWEEN the suspension and the helmet shell. With the MICH, I use a split crown pad to provide clearance for the headband. With a Nightcap, the headset obviously fits over the top, but may not provide the best of seal over your ears depending on how low the cap rides on your head. As far as melon size, do you have a seamstress tape measure? If not, you can use a piece of string or whatever and a regular tape measure, yardstick, etc. Measure around your head at the widest point above the ears. If you know you hat size, take that number and multiply by PI [3.14159]. ETA - I just noticed that you are HFD. |
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Posted: 1/13/2015 10:13:00 AM EDT
[#11]
Whats your intended use for your NV gear?
If hog hunting then something light weight and breathable like the night cap makes sense. But if you are intending for this gear to be used for... dare i say the word "tactical" situations that you will want a helmet. Not only does i provide bump and possibly ballistic protection but it will be a more stable platform as well. For IR laser you might want to consider the civilian PEQ-15, about the same price and possibly better features. I use a surefire x400v irc on my rifle, has everything i need at a fraction of the cost and weight of the PEQ-15. |
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Posted: 1/13/2015 10:16:07 AM EDT
[#12]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Whats your intended use for your NV gear? If hog hunting then something light weight and breathable like the night cap makes sense. But if you are intending for this gear to be used for... dare i say the word "tactical" situations that you will want a helmet. Not only does i provide bump and possibly ballistic protection but it will be a more stable platform as well. For IR laser you might want to consider the civilian PEQ-15, about the same price and possibly better features. I use a surefire x400v irc on my rifle, has everything i need at a fraction of the cost and weight of the PEQ-15. Mostly hunting. After reading this and this it appears the a3 will be the best bang for my buck. |
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Posted: 1/13/2015 11:25:32 AM EDT
[#13]
I've got the TW and the Night Cap. When hunting, I use the Night Cap 95% of the time. Only thing I'd add is a Streamlight Sidewinder II Compact with IR light to attach to the TW of the Night Cap. If attaching to the Night Cap, you can add a small piece of Magpul polymer rail to the side and it works great.
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Posted: 1/13/2015 12:01:22 PM EDT
[#14]
Quoted: Budget is 5k$ Most likely gonna order tomorrow if TNVC is open. Below is what a friend who knows about NV and I came up with. I already have a USGI RINO mount, I'm not opposed to buying a better mount, but figured I'd get used to everything so I can decide what my likes and dislikes are first. What is the preferred color for a infrared beacon? http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss195/wpeschel/d5d4704d4082be2d250573f3dca4b8ca.jpg Already bought this http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss195/wpeschel/f3e8941d48c7e81fd206b90d589297ba.jpg Looks like a decent setup. Only thing I would ask you to think about is the Phoenix Jr beacon. Why the 9volt model and not the 123 version? There are advantages to both, but let me just elaborate on my experiences with them. The 9V model, means that the beacon itself is stuck to the top of the battery, when done, it stays on constant. There is no on/off switch. Which means the only way to get your beacon to stop flashing is to separate the two pieces. Which means you have two separate pieces to keep track of in your pocket, bag or whatever else. IME, a hassle. Phoenix JR 123 takes the CR123. When the battery is installed, the beacon stays on constant, there is no on/off HOWEVER, when you don't want your beacon on anymore, stow the battery upside down. Just something to think about. |
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Posted: 1/13/2015 1:26:21 PM EDT
[#15]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
FYI the blue option means the beacon will flash a visible blue. Can be seen without NODs. Looks like a decent setup. Only thing I would ask you to think about is the Phoenix Jr beacon. Why the 9volt model and not the 123 version? There are advantages to both, but let me just elaborate on my experiences with them. The 9V model, means that the beacon itself is stuck to the top of the battery, when done, it stays on constant. There is no on/off switch. Which means the only way to get your beacon to stop flashing is to separate the two pieces. Which means you have two separate pieces to keep track of in your pocket, bag or whatever else. IME, a hassle. Phoenix JR 123 takes the CR123. When the battery is installed, the beacon stays on constant, there is no on/off HOWEVER, when you don't want your beacon on anymore, stow the battery upside down. Just something to think about. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Budget is 5k$ Most likely gonna order tomorrow if TNVC is open. Below is what a friend who knows about NV and I came up with. I already have a USGI RINO mount, I'm not opposed to buying a better mount, but figured I'd get used to everything so I can decide what my likes and dislikes are first. What is the preferred color for a infrared beacon? http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss195/wpeschel/d5d4704d4082be2d250573f3dca4b8ca.jpg Already bought this http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss195/wpeschel/f3e8941d48c7e81fd206b90d589297ba.jpg Looks like a decent setup. Only thing I would ask you to think about is the Phoenix Jr beacon. Why the 9volt model and not the 123 version? There are advantages to both, but let me just elaborate on my experiences with them. The 9V model, means that the beacon itself is stuck to the top of the battery, when done, it stays on constant. There is no on/off switch. Which means the only way to get your beacon to stop flashing is to separate the two pieces. Which means you have two separate pieces to keep track of in your pocket, bag or whatever else. IME, a hassle. Phoenix JR 123 takes the CR123. When the battery is installed, the beacon stays on constant, there is no on/off HOWEVER, when you don't want your beacon on anymore, stow the battery upside down. Just something to think about. Honestly I didn't see that model, but I'd rather have that one because I keep numerous cr123 batteries on hand. |
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Posted: 1/13/2015 4:17:16 PM EDT
[#16]
I was recommended THIS by Teddy at tnvc. What do yall think? Or should I just spring for the Norotos INVG.
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Posted: 1/13/2015 4:41:38 PM EDT
[#17]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I was recommended THIS by Teddy at tnvc. What do yall think? Or should I just spring for the Norotos INVG. thats the one vic recommended to me. I purchased it last week with my PVS14 so I don't have it yet. |
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Posted: 1/13/2015 5:24:15 PM EDT
[#18]
IMHO good choice going w/ the Nightcap, it's a wonderful item. I use it much more than the helmets I have. I would also add a EOG low profile short counterweight and a Princeton Tec switch light. Those two items go with the Nightcap like peanut butter and jelly. Also, you're going to want thermal at some point too... it's the natural progression of things
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Posted: 1/13/2015 5:40:45 PM EDT
[#19]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
IMHO good choice going w/ the Nightcap, it's a wonderful item. I use it much more than the helmets I have. I would also add a EOG low profile short counterweight and a Princeton Tec switch light. Those two items go with the Nightcap like peanut butter and jelly. Also, you're going to want thermal at some point too... it's the natural progression of things How do you attach it to the cap? |
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Posted: 1/13/2015 6:06:34 PM EDT
[#20]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
How do you attach it to the cap? Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
IMHO good choice going w/ the Nightcap, it's a wonderful item. I use it much more than the helmets I have. I would also add a EOG low profile short counterweight and a Princeton Tec switch light. Those two items go with the Nightcap like peanut butter and jelly. Also, you're going to want thermal at some point too... it's the natural progression of things How do you attach it to the cap? The counterweight goes right on the Velcro on the back of the cap and the light is attached where the top tension straps crisscross. I've got a pic of mine below, I typically wear it w/ NODs at least a few hours each week. 
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Posted: 1/13/2015 6:10:48 PM EDT
[#21]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
The counterweight goes right on the Velcro on the back of the cap and the light is attached where the top tension straps crisscross. I've got a pic of mine below, I typically wear it w/ NODs at least a few hours each week. http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k277/cake5150/20150113_170005_zps24b8b4d6.jpg Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:
IMHO good choice going w/ the Nightcap, it's a wonderful item. I use it much more than the helmets I have. I would also add a EOG low profile short counterweight and a Princeton Tec switch light. Those two items go with the Nightcap like peanut butter and jelly. Also, you're going to want thermal at some point too... it's the natural progression of things How do you attach it to the cap? The counterweight goes right on the Velcro on the back of the cap and the light is attached where the top tension straps crisscross. I've got a pic of mine below, I typically wear it w/ NODs at least a few hours each week. http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k277/cake5150/20150113_170005_zps24b8b4d6.jpg Looks good. Just making sure I didn't have to buy anything else. |
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Posted: 1/13/2015 6:13:23 PM EDT
[#22]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
IMHO good choice going w/ the Nightcap, it's a wonderful item. I use it much more than the helmets I have. I would also add a EOG low profile short counterweight and a Princeton Tec switch light. Those two items go with the Nightcap like peanut butter and jelly. Also, you're going to want thermal at some point too... it's the natural progression of things I almost forgot to add, a Wilcox lanyard is a wise idea as well. |
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Posted: 1/13/2015 6:26:52 PM EDT
[#23]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I almost forgot to add, a Wilcox lanyard is a wise idea as well. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
IMHO good choice going w/ the Nightcap, it's a wonderful item. I use it much more than the helmets I have. I would also add a EOG low profile short counterweight and a Princeton Tec switch light. Those two items go with the Nightcap like peanut butter and jelly. Also, you're going to want thermal at some point too... it's the natural progression of things I almost forgot to add, a Wilcox lanyard is a wise idea as well. Yes getting that with the Wilcox L4 shroud |
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Posted: 1/18/2015 9:44:15 PM EDT
[#24]
One more thing what eye should I wear my monocular on?
I shoot right handed. |
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Posted: 1/18/2015 9:52:42 PM EDT
[#25]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
One more thing what eye should I wear my monocular on? I shoot right handed. I wear it over my left eye. I used to wear it over my right eye but I kept seeing people on here with theirs set up over the non-dominant eye so I thought I'd give it a try. I'm glad I did, it's better IMHO. |
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Posted: 1/18/2015 9:54:08 PM EDT
[#26]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I wear it over my left eye. I used to wear it over my right eye but I kept seeing people on here with theirs set up over the non-dominant eye so I thought I'd give it a try. I'm glad I did, it's better IMHO. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
One more thing what eye should I wear my monocular on? I shoot right handed. I wear it over my left eye. I used to wear it over my right eye but I kept seeing people on here with theirs set up over the non-dominant eye so I thought I'd give it a try. I'm glad I did, it's better IMHO. Thanks. That's what I've been noticing too. |
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Posted: 1/18/2015 10:55:43 PM EDT
[#27]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I wear it over my left eye. I used to wear it over my right eye but I kept seeing people on here with theirs set up over the non-dominant eye so I thought I'd give it a try. I'm glad I did, it's better IMHO. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
One more thing what eye should I wear my monocular on? I shoot right handed. I wear it over my left eye. I used to wear it over my right eye but I kept seeing people on here with theirs set up over the non-dominant eye so I thought I'd give it a try. I'm glad I did, it's better IMHO. big +1 for folks who are not cross-eye dominant |
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