NIGHT VISION OPTICS

 NIGHT VISION OPTICS 

These days you can buy cheap 1.gen optics for less than 100$ but these devices will very fast prove as insufficient, but it's better than no night vision at all.Night vision is often combined with thermal imaging FLIR systems.

Here is example of  4 generations of night vision systems. 4.th generation being latest and entirely digital vs. previous partly analogue systems.If an analog Night Vison device is used in broad daylight, the image intensifier tube gets ruined and has to be replaced. Digital devices can usually be used in the daytime.Mainly analogue NV GEN difference is in clarity of picture and details so GEN3 Night Vision is probably highest level that you can acquire these days.There are also various law restrictions in acquiring these devices,especially for Europe. 

The generation classification comes in to define what night vision scopes have all or some of these internal tube components. Additionally, various raw materials, glass quality, and coatings can be used to determine overall quality, and ultimately, what generation class a night vision device belongs in.

What is an Image Intensifier Tube?

The image intensifier (I2) tube (IIT) is a vacuum-sealed tube with various components that make up the night vision capabilities of night vision scopes. A complete night vision I2 tube will contain a photocathode, micro-channel plate, and a phosphor screen.

Night Vision Generations

Generation 1

Gen 1 tech was developed in the '60s. and these scopes are also the most affordable night vision devices.These night vision devices typically lack a microchannel plate, and offer less resolution with more "noise" in the image. Fish-eye lens effects and blooming (excessive light causes image distortion) are inherent of Gen 1 scopes. Shorter lifespan of approx. 1,500 hours. Good for ranges up to about 75 yards. Often requires use of a built-in IR illuminator making you visible to other night-vision users, and it's always activated - no option to turn it off.

The primary advantage of buying a Gen 1 rifle scope is cost. They’re cheap, affordable, and they provide reasonable night vision for close range shooting from about 50-100 yards

TAC Vector Optics 4x60 Gen 1 Night Vision is typical good example of device

Magnification: 4x

FOV: 50 ft/100 yds

Resolution: 36-40 lp/mm

Eye Relief: 13 mm

Color Modes: Green Phosphor

Battery: 1x CR123 Li-ion

Dimensions: 11”/3.1 lbs

Generation 2

Gen 2. Contains microchannel plate for accelerated electron gain and image resolution. Provides better than average low light quality and with little distortion. Lifespan of approx. 2,500-5,000 hours. Good for ranges up to about 200 yards. Can operate "passively" without the use of an IR illuminator.

example: 

AGM Wolverine PRO-4 NL1 Night Vision Scope 

 Automatic brightness control, Adjustable projected reticle

Powered by 2 AA batteries, 60 hour continuous operation

Diopter adjustment -6 to +2 dpt, 30mm Eye relief

Detachable, long-range Infrared Illuminator; Windage/Elevation Adjustment

Export of product out of USA is not allowed, is controlled by US Dept of State.

• IIT: Gen 2+
• Magnification: 4x
• FOV: 8.3-degrees
• Resolution: 51-64 lp/mm
• Eye Relief: 30 mm
• Color Modes: Green Phosphor
• Battery: 40 hours
• Dimensions: 8.4 x 3.7 x 3.2”/2.35 lbs

Generation 3

The most-advanced night vision technology available. Like Gen 2, there are several grades and levels of quality within Gen 3 devices. Contains premium components for multiple benefits such as an ion barrier film to improve tube durability. Can be used in both day and night conditions. Excellent low light performance without the need of an IR illuminator for added covertness. Lifespan of approx. 10,000+ hours. Good for ranges up to about 300 yards.

AGM Global Vision Wolverine Pro-6

 Powered by 2 AA batteries

Waterproof

40 hours continuous operation  

Item Weight3.25 Pounds

Dimensions: 11.2 x 4.3 x 3.6”/3.25 lbs

IIT: Gen 3  

Magnification: 6x

FOV: 5.7-degrees

Resolution: 64-72 lp/mm

Eye Relief: 30 mm

Color Modes: Green Phosphor

Generation 4

The classification term was introduced to the U.S. Army, but the technology didn't meet their regulation/performance standards.Removal of the ion barrier film with the addition of auto-gating technology allows improved image quality like never seen before in night vision devices.Minimal halo or blooming effects from bright light sources, little to no "noise" in image, increased resolution, and a much higher performance rate in low light conditions can be expected.

White Phosphor Technology (WPT)

This is the latest night vision tech that allows image quality in black and white, and white phosphor tubes can be compatible with any generation class.Typically see WPT in upper level Gen 3+ devices.

Ceramic Optical Ruggedized Engine (CORE)

Introduces ceramic plates instead of glass ones in Gen 1 tubes. The result is significant optical quality, improved durability, and it remains an affordable device for those on a budget who want better scopes.

BEST CHEAP NIGHT GOGGLES 

Nightfox Swift Night Vision Goggles

Specs:
— Zoom: 1x and 2x
— Range: 225 feet
— Runtime: Three hours

Pros:
— Hands-free design
— Adjustable brightness
— Rechargeable battery
— Multiple IR (infrared) levels

Cons:
— Not waterproof

Nightfox Swift use infrared (IR) light to create images, even when it’s pitch black. They have multiple IR levels that allow for improved clarity in varying light levels, making them ideal for the early morning or late evening. This sets runs on rechargeable batteries, instead of forcing the user to repeatedly purchase six to eight disposable batteries, like some other products. When fully charged, the goggles can last for up to three hours of runtime.  

Nightfox Swift's goggles are specifically made for hands-free use and include a head mount to keep the goggles secure on the user’s head and face. They have a 1x optical zoom and 2x digital zoom with a range of 225 feet.

Best Overall: Visiocrest Infrared Night Vision Goggles

Specs:
— Zoom: 2x and 4x
— Range: 1,300 feet
— Runtime: Up to 11 hours

Pros:
— Impressive range
— HD camera and video function
— Includes carrying case, neck strap, and 32 GB SD card
— Infrared illuminator for full pitch-black vision

The Visiocrest Infrared Night Vision Goggles are the best night vision goggles overall for anyone that is looking to take photos or videos of nocturnal birds, like owls, and other animals. These goggles won the top spot, as the infrared features enable users to see in complete and total darkness. While some night vision goggles cannot record videos or capture images, this set is specifically designed to take clear photos and record video in a brilliant 960P.

The data is stored on an included 32 GB SD card and can be uploaded to a computer, or with the USB cable, plugged in to a TV for an up close look at the saved files. These goggles have an impressive range of 1,300 feet, though the image can get slightly pixelated when using for very far distances.