I've been trying to do as much research as I could without coming here to ask questions but I've got a snag with some stuff and can't seem to find the answer.

I'm looking at a WP PVS-14 and while I see that the unfilmed version does better in very low light situations I'm not sure if there's any difference in life expectancy. I was under the impression that the film kept the unit from burning out too fast, is that the case with WP units? If they have the same life expectancy is the cost of the unfilmed worth it over the thin filmed?

Since you're already here you might as well stuck around for a few more questions. As far as accessories and mounting goes what do I need to get started? I've got a list that includes a bump helmet, Wilcox mount, IR laser and illuminator, counterweight and ear pro helmet mounts. I'm trying not to jump in over my head so I don't want to get too crazy. I'd like to stay between 1-2k for accessories right now.

Thanks for any help you guys can give.

I may do that after work. How long is the lead time on those two WP models?

Might not be in the budget, but get binos if you can. I bought a PVS 14 from TNVC and regretted it instantly(buying the mono, not tnvc). Should have gone bino.

I'm pretty sure my budget won't allow that right now. I'm trying to stay under 6k for everything to start. I'm honestly not even sure how much use I'll get out of this but I wanted to buy myself a 40th birthday/vasectomy present and this is what I decided on.

You will find plenty of uses... Trust me.

I'm curious.  I don't hunt, just a suburban guy.  But have thought about getting something but can't think of a reason to purchase.  What realistic use is there for someone like me to have NVD?  I have a nice telescope for star viewing.  I don't expect my neck of the woods to erupt in SHTF anytime soon.  Anything else?

I never said those things had to be productive. Aside from the many uses outdoors such as moonlight hikes, and stargazing. The outside of my house is surrounded by IR light because of my cameras, and watching animals is pretty cool. I take my dog on beach walks in the dark(ebay IR strobe) and I am a hunter so it is used for predators on the ranches I frequent. I used NV the other day to count the amount of skunks walking around at my duck club for the owner. I have used NV at parties to pick up chicks. Still waiting to get the funds to do a rigid light IR setup on my polaris ranger.

I think the only limit is your creativity and imagination.

Just curious, how does that work? Asking for a friend of course.

@KPog Do you have any experience with dual 14s and a bridge? If so how does it compare with binos?

All you do is say "look up at all those stars, there's so many more that can't be seen with the naked eye. It's absolutely beautiful to see whats actually there."

Then you stand behind them while they put your NODs to their eyes, hold their hands gently, and whisper "I told you it's beautiful."

Then smash.

I have a set of Dual TNVC omni VIII's on a wilcox bridge, while it is awesome, it is heavy. I have tried out a ton of the cool guy stuff since my wife used to work at one of the bigger NV retailers. Next move is WPT sentinels or 31's if I can get them

Hey, all you need is a conversation starter right.

How much heavier than the sentinels? I don't want to be disappointed and then be disappointed again if the bridge set up is too heavy or has any other big problems compared to binos.

You’re good with the 14. If you want a solid lock for around a hundred bucks get a rhino ii and the pvs-15 dovetail Mount from tnvc.

It’s a very very easy mod and you’ve got a dovetail mount on an arm that’s got all the movement options you need.

You don’t get the cool points of course but it’s $100. Not hundreds.

As far as weight? The modarmory ic dual lightweight bridge is only 3.2 ounces if you want to add another 14 at a later date. It’s easy to have a loaner (mod 3 is more $) if the housing breaks or has issues you still have wiring nv. Even if one goes down with the bridge.

I dunno. Besides the weight, which I don’t think is that bad, I think duals are good as good as binos. Most will disagree.

If you get the modarmory ic dual bridge instead of the Wilcox it’s:

Sents: 20 ounces, 23 if you go ball and detent mount
Dual 14’s: around 28 ounces.

So 5-8 ounces.

Thanks for the input in both posts.

Keep in mind, that is another 5-8 ounces added to all the doo dads you are going to put on your brain bucket. While I run this, it does get heavy after extended use.

Well, I took the plunge and put in an order with TNVC. I decided to stay with a 14 and got a starter set up to go with it. If I decide to upgrade later I'll just use the 14 as a back up or buddy unit.

Thanks to Vic at TNVC for helping me out! He's a great guy and a big help. I would encourage anyone new to NV to buy from them, they have no problem taking the time to make sure you get what you want and need.