The best night vision equipment for you primarily depends on your budget. Night vision equipment is very expensive. But don’t worry because there are a lot of different options and price points.
This post will list all of the best options at every price point. It might be a good idea and save up money for a little while and get the set that you prefer and not just buy what you can afford at the moment.
Also, night vision does have a good used market and you can recoup a lot of the cost if you plan on upgrading in the future.
Like most things in life you get what you pay for, and night vision is a great example of this. Stay away from cheap and gimmicky products.
Why Use Night Vision?
Night vision has a lot of use cases and you might want night vision for a specific purpose. Hunting, reconnaissance, tactical applications, and home defense are the primary reasons most people purchase them.
We are also lucky enough to live in a free country and we have the luxury of owning them so we don’t need a reason.
Just because it’s cool. That works for me.
Seeing in the dark gives the user a huge advantage in a self-defense or home defense situation. Having the upper hand could be the difference between life and death.
So if you have plenty of firearms, plate carriers, and body armor. The next logical step is night vision goggles. You do not want to waste money so you should get the bests night vision goggles that you can.
You don’t need a helmet-mounted set either, I will also list the best handheld night vision monocular and mountable device that can be positioned behind a red dot on your battle rifle.
How To Choose The Best Night Vision?
Choosing the best night vision for you will depend on your intended use and budget. First, decide how you will be using them and in what situation.
There are two main setups that you will want to consider.
Handheld Night Vision Monocular
Helmet Mounted Night Vision Goggles
Having a set of dual NVGs is gonna be the best option that I recommend. This gives you a hands-free system that is ideal and the battery life is greater. Dual nods can use external battery packs with extended battery life.
For this, you will need an aiming device for your rifle like an infrared laser and a way to mount the goggles. This is also going to be the most expensive setup.
The next best setup is to have night vision mounted directly to your rifle. You can use this in conjunction with a red dot.
The downside to this is that you are limited to always shouldering your rifle and looking through the optic to see.
Finally, the last option is using a handheld night vision device. This is a great place to start and dip your toes in the world of night vision.
A lot of the handheld devices can also be mounted on a rifle or used on a helmet as well.
Best Night Vision Monoculars
Here is the list of the best night vision monoculars that are best suited for handheld use or as a single helmet-mounted device. The battery life on these is usually fixed, however a few of these can have the battery life upgraded.
1. SiOnyx Aurora Pro Night Vision Monocular
The SIONYX Aurora PRO is the flagship full-color digital night vision optic. The Pro digital night vision is the latest development with both new sensor technology and enhanced optics giving the viewer the most advanced digital night vision capabilities.
The Pro performs best in the darkest conditions. It’s designed with extreme environments in mind and has all of the great recording and streaming functionality as the rest of the Aurora line.
The Aurora Pro is a top choice for law enforcement agencies across the globe and has been leveraged for both surveillance and evidence gathering.
If you’re looking for the best in digital night vision, that can see further into the darkness, the Aurora Pro is the night vision camera for you.
Objective Lens Diameter:
16 mm
Magnification:
3 x, 1 – 3 x
Color:
Black
Length:
118 mm
Field of View, Angle:
44 degrees
Focus Range:
0.3 m to Infinity
Battery Type:
Lithium, Lithium Ion, Prismatic, Stand Alone Lithium
Weight:
0.61 lb
Resolution:
720 pixels
Included Accessories:
hard case, 2 battery, USB cable, neck lanyard, 32GB memory card,, 2 Camera Batteries, USB Cable, Hardshell Case, Microsd 32Gb
2. AGM Global Vision PVS-14 Night Vision Monocular
The AGM PVS-14 Night Vision Monocular is a rugged, lightweight, multi-purpose night vision device that has repeatedly proven itself in combat.
The PVS-14 design was originally commissioned by the United States Military to enable nighttime operations. This monocular is used globally in some of the most challenging environments.
The PVS-14 can be used as a handheld device or mounted on the included head harness. With the proper accessories, it can also be mounted to combat helmets, providing night vision capabilities to daytime optical sights.
The PVS-14 monocular conforms to 810G Military standards and demonstrates the highest quality form and function. The PVS-14 monocular is a full-featured unit. Weighing less than 12.4 ounces/ 0.32 kilograms.
The unit includes manual gain control, an automatic bright light shut-off feature, and a built-in Infrared (IR) illuminator. The bright light shut-off feature ensures that the high-quality photocathode tube is protected.
AGMs PVS14 includes an array of optional accessories to support virtually any operation.
3. TRYBE Optics GEN 3 PVS-14 Night Vision Monocular
The TRYBE Optics GEN 3 PVS-14 Night Vision Monocular is a versatile Night Vision Monocular, widely used by the US Military and its allies.
The TRYBE Optics PVS-14’s lightweight, single-battery, battle-proven design with state-of-the-art GEN 3 green and white image intensifier tube technology, as well as variable gain control, allows the user to increase or decrease image tube brightness for greater image contrast in varying light conditions.
This is what makes it one of the best systems on the market and where most people start when it comes to night vision.
The TRYBE Optics GEN 3 PVS-14 Multi-Purpose Night Vision Monocular delivers over 50 hours of power using just (1) AA battery, providing unprecedented capabilities with a smaller power supply than your TV remote.
Now you may be wondering about the Hand Select units also available for sale.
They individually check each one of the PVS-14s for signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and screen imperfections.
Only the best units qualify for their hand select models. They have an SNR greater than 27 and the screens look utterly amazing.
Designed for the most demanding nighttime law enforcement or military applications, these TRYBE Optics Night Vision Products can be handheld, head-mounted, helmet-mounted, weapons-mounted, or attached to a camera or camcorder.
Take on intense nighttime operations or late evening hog hunts with the TRYBE Optics GEN 3 PVS-14 NV Monocular.
4. Armasight PVS-14 Gen 3 Multi-Purpose Night Vision Monocular
The Armasight PVS-14 Gen 3 military night vision monocular is trusted and used by NATO armies around the globe for its power, durability, and clear views of the field even in the darkest conditions.
Armasight constructed these with a Gen III image intensifier tube that creates a vivid sight picture in any environment.
The Armasight PVS-14 Gen 3 Multi-Purpose Night Vision Monocular is compact yet durable, and its waterproof design allows you to equip it in any weather conditions.
Battle-proven and easy to operate, this NV monocular is the perfect illumination tool for military personnel or law enforcement professionals.
The PVS-14 Multi-Purpose NV Monocular is compatible with a variety of accessories that expand its versatility, allowing you to use it as a handheld device, helmet-mounted NV monocular, or even as a night vision camera.
With an integrated infrared (IR) illuminator, you’ll get bright, brilliant views of your surroundings, and manual gain control provides precise brightness adjustment to ensure you get the best sight picture for your needs.
AGM offers two different variations of their PVS-14. One that has a standard green image and another that is white phosphor
Bravo – Entry-level Gen 3 night vision. Perfect for General Consumers.
Pinnacle – Gen 3 with the best combination of performance, clarity, and value. Perfect for Advanced Consumers.
Color:
Black
Magnification:
1 x
Night Vision Generation:
3
Objective Lens Diameter:
26 mm
Weight:
12.4 oz
Focus Range:
0.25 m to Infinity
Field of View, Angle:
40 degrees
Length:
4.5 in
Battery Type:
AA
Eye Relief:
25 mm
Condition:
New
Battery Quantity:
1
System/Lens Resolution:
64 – 72 lp/mm
Diopter Adjustment Range:
-6 – 2 dpt
Image Intensifier Tube:
Bravo Grade
Dimensions:
4.5 x 2 x 2.25 in
Battery Life:
50 hours
Water Resistance Level:
IP67
Operating Temperature:
-51 – 49 Celsius
Combat-tested night vision monocular by Armasight
Compact and rugged design
Waterproof body
Variable brightness functionality lets you adjust the image intensifier tube to your environment
Ergonomic, simple, and easy-to-operate controls
Built-in infrared illuminator with flood lens
Generation 3 night vision technology
Backed by the Armasight limited three-year warranty
The ATN PVS-14 Gen 4 Night Vision Monocular is the standard-issue U.S. military night vision optic, and used by special ops throughout the world.
These units are of the highest quality in optics, design and functionality. Its versatility makes it the premier choice for Law Enforcement and Military Professionals.
PVS-14’s can be mounted on a helmet for hands-free use, behind weapon optics, or simply as a handheld device. The PVS-14 provides night vision aid to one of the operator’s eyes, leaving the other to retain its natural night vision.
This is important when operating in changing light conditions in the field. Allowing the user to go back and forth between aided and unaided vision.
Military and Law Enforcement operators need the ability to instantly switch between dynamic light conditions as the situation develops. The PVS-14 Gen 4 can be assembled with various levels of Image Intensifier tubes.
ATN being a premier manufacturer gets access to the best High-Performance tubes from the leading US Image Intensifier Manufacturers on the Market, ie: L3 and Elbit.
These are assembled according to Mil-Spec Standards, using factory-new parts and current production image intensifier tubes.
Additional features include IR on and low battery indicators, manual brightness control and auto-shut off function that shuts down the device within seconds when accidentally exposed to bright light, and an integrated IR illuminator for use in extremely low light conditions.
Now for the best night vision goggles. With a dual nod setup, this is the best option for tactical operations. Night vision goggles offer the best situational awareness and a hands-free setup.
Below is a list of the best night vision goggles for any tactical situation. Night vision goggles cost more than hand held monoculars or single tube devices. You may find some inexpensive night vision goggles at sporting goods stores, and you should avoid these because they are all junk.
Night vision gear is very pricey and with new companies that create night vision modes, the price will slowly start to drop in the future. Also, new night vision generations are being invented.
Night vision goggles work off of ambient light. You still need a source of ambient light for them to create a viewable image.
1. AGM Global Vision PVS-7 Night Vision Goggles
The AGM Global PVS-7 is widely recognized for its unsurpassed dependability and ergonomic design. This U.S. Military-grade night vision goggle system has repeatedly proven its worth in combat and is the highest-quality AN/PVS-7 B/D system on the market.
The PVS-7 can be outfitted with high-performance Gen 2+ and Gen 3 image intensifier tubes (available in Green phosphor or P45 white phosphor).
The PVS-7 is equipped with Automatic Brightness Control (ABC) to adjust image brightness in changing light conditions to maintain image definition and clarity.
The built-in infrared illuminator provides a light source beyond the visible spectrum to enable the user to operate in complete darkness without being detected.
Additionally, the PVS-7 has a bright light cut-off feature to protect the image tube from sources of intense light, and a flip-up shut-off feature that can be used with the optional helmet mount system.
The PVS-7 has two LED indicators in the eyepiece for the IR illuminator on and low battery indicator. Lightweight, tough, and versatile, the PVS-7 can be handheld or mounted to the user’s head/helmet.
It is compatible with afocal magnifier lenses for superior long-range viewing.
The ATN PS-31 Gen 3 Binocular Night Vision Device (BNVD) is a compact, lightweight, dual tube goggle to replace the legacy PS-15.
In a sea of dual tube night vision goggles, the PS-31 is one of the smallest and lightest units by far. The PS31s can be outfitted with various levels of high-performance made in specialized factories Gen 3 image intensifier tubes.
Working directly with U.S. Operator’s input, the PS-31 was designed to increase system resolution, significantly reduce head-borne weight, improve the system of the center of gravity, provide additional operational utility, improve overall operator situational awareness and add a 50 deg FOV for maximum visibility in the field.
These tubes are auto-gain-capable, allowing the system to adjust the brightness of their image as situations on the ground dictate.
The PS-31 BNVD has independently pivoting tube housings that allow the operator to run the goggle in a binocular or monocular configuration.
Using two tubes at once allows the eyes to create depth perception and increases the ease in maneuvering terrain and obstacles as well as operating devices such as control panels and door knobs.
However, monocular configurations allow for ease in transitioning between various lighting conditions that often occur on the battlefield and cause operators to switch between night vision and weapon-mounted optics.
Another benefit to the pivoting tube housings is the ability to mount the flattened goggle against the front helmet surface when stowed.
The ability to pivot the tube housings against the helmet surface creates an overall lower profile, increasing operator safety and equipment life.
The ATN PS15 Gen 4 night vision goggles are compact, lightweight dual Night Vision Goggles utilizing some of the best night vision technology in the world today.
Made for professional-grade use by law and military personnel, this ATN Night Vision scope utilizes two high-performance Generation 4 image intensifier tubes to provide extremely clear and crisp images under the darkest conditions.
This dual-tube design allows the ATN PS15-4 Night Vision Goggles to provide increased depth perception and outstanding clarity.
A built-in IR illuminator lets the user easily read a map and function in an environment of total darkness.
These Night Vision Goggles from ATN offer you a level of performance and quality that has no equal – the ATN PS-15 NV Goggles are the high-performance choice!
These ATN Generation 4 image tubes offer some super night vision performance. Their filmless micro channel plate provides a higher signal-to-noise ratio of 24.00 and higher.
These Gen 4 image tubes are equipped with autogated power supplies that allow them to excel in all low light conditions regardless of artificial “light pollution “that exists in urban areas.
This autogating greatly reduces the “halo” around any light sources and also eliminates the need for the unit to go into light-overload safety shutdown when exposed to excessive light.
Magnification:
1 x
Objective Lens Diameter:
27 mm
Included Accessories:
Manual, Warranty Card, Lithium Battery, Lens tissue, Head Mount Assembly, Goggle Kit, Soft Carrying Case
Finish:
Matte
Focus Range:
0.25 m to Infinity
Night Vision Generation:
4
Field of View, Angle:
40 degrees
Battery Type:
CR123A
Weight:
0.7 kg, 1.5 lb
Condition:
New
System/Lens Resolution:
64 – 72 lp/mm
Diopter Adjustment Range:
2 – -6 dpt
Magnification Type:
Fixed
Caps:
Yes
Zoom:
No
Case:
No
Eye Relief:
25 mm
Operating Temperature:
-40 – 50 Celsius
Armoring:
Hard Plastic
Application:
Night Vision
Strap:
No
Fogproof:
Yes
Dual goggle/binocular
Hands-Free use
Comfortable, flip-up Headgear
Lightweight, Compact
Depth Perception
Optional powerful 3x A focal lenses to make into binocular
4. Steele Industries DTNVS L3 Night Vision Goggles
One of the best night vision goggles you can get is the Steele Industries DTNVS L3. These are amazing and worth every penny.
The DTNVS utilizes a single CR123 battery. It does not have a factory on board the LEMO port like the RNVG.
But you can purchase a DICC from jag consulting that replaces the battery compartment and allows use with battery packs, such as the AB Night Vision Inc Ground Optimized Battery Pack.
The DTNVS also offers features such as auto on/off, as well as articulation. This allows you to stow it against your head to help with weight distribution, as well as fold individual sides up to get behind your optic on your rifle.
The DTNVS is the next version of the very popular DTNVG and is comparable to the PVS31. They are enhanced with lightweight materials and a low profile when folded to the helmet which reduces neck strain.
DTNVS is even lighter than the DTNVG, weighing only 15.5 ounces. The DTNVS offers stow-able NVG pods. Each NVG pod can be stowed individually allowing the goggle to be used as a monocular.
The NVG pods also feature an auto on/off system – when stowed (pivoted up) they automatically switch off, saving power for longer mission run-time. The unit also has a built in IR illuminator. Fully Waterproof. Long battery life on 1 x CR123. A single battery lasts 25 hours minimum and sometimes up to 35 hours in different stowed positions.
These are comparable, if not superior to the L-3 AN / PVS-31, with some great advantages. The DTNVS are lighter, offer a better 5-year warranty, superior glass optics, and better tube quality. All this at a better price than the AN / PVS31.
DTNVS is compatible with all accessories of a PVS14, so you can add a 3x or 5x lens to give you some zoom and a binocular effect. Same as a PVS14 Compass, and COTI Thermal Clip-on.
Lastly adding retention points and an optional IP stop the DTNVS makes strides forward over its predecessor, the DTNVG.
If you want one of the best night vision goggles, then this is my favorite overall choice.
5. Elbit Systems of America PVS-31D Night Vision Goggles
TheElbit PVS-31D F5032has a unique close-focus lens that allows users to perform intricate, critical tasks with more clarity than competing night vision binoculars.
Whether reading printed map details, administering medical support, repairing weapons, or re-configuring a radio, the F5032 provides essential visual ability while still maintaining cover under darkness.
The F5032 is also configurable with fixed or adjustable diopter lenses to accommodate individual user optical requirements to minimize eye strain.
An intuitive vertical viewing capability recognizes when the binocular is in use and prevents shut-off from activating when a user tilts their head. An auto shut-off engages only when the goggles are in the stowed position.
Most binoculars require a separate IR illuminator for caves, buildings, underground, or other zero-light conditions.
The F5032 includes an integrated LED infrared illuminator, reducing the need for additional equipment while keeping you ready to command the dark in any situation.
Achieve optimum individualized performance with the option of adjustable eyepieces and lenses designed to accommodate personal preference and mitigate eye strain.
A top-performing anti-reflective coating protects all of the F5032’s lenses. Each one is water repellent as well as dust, smudge, and scratch-resistant.
When it comes to image intensifier performance, you’re in control. The F5032 is available with or without manual brightness adjustment – simply specify your preference.
Designed with lower-profile optics and greater vertical adjustment capabilities, this lightweight night vision binocular provides a more efficient user experience.
This binocular is built to withstand the rigors of conflict. Made with molded, state-of-the-art thermoplastic parts, it thrives in the harshest environments.
With both monoculars flipped away and up, the system stows closely along the contour of your helmet, reducing silhouette and neck strain while minimizing the potential for system damage.
The F5032 has indicators for low battery (yellow) and IR light source (red). There is also an optional external battery pack for extended use that doubles as a counterweight.
The F5032 offers a close-in minimum focus distance so you can perform crucial tasks with more clarity.
Magnification:
1 x
Length:
4.2 in
Focus Range:
9.7 in to Infinity
Night Vision Generation:
3
Field of View, Angle:
40 degrees
Battery Type:
AA
Weight:
500 g
Battery Life:
24 hours
Color:
Black
Width:
4.1 in
Height:
2.8 in
Battery Quantity:
1
Diopter Adjustment Range:
-6 – 2 dpt
Gen 3 Gated Pinnacle tubes
Industry-leading, close-focus technology
Image intensifier tubes serviceable at the unit level
The EOTech PVS-1531 combines the most-desired features from the rugged, battle-proven night vision to deliver additional capability to the warfighter in a small, lightweight package.
The PVS-1531 is the result of continuous product improvements in the areas of size, weight, performance, and power consumption. The PVS-1531 offers a lightweight, ergonomic design similar to the AN/PVS-31 but with significant weight reduction over the AN/PVS-15.
It also incorporates features such as adjustable diopters, manual gain adjustment, individually rotating monoculars, and an integrated infrared illuminator.
The PVS-1531 can be operated as a helmet-mounted, head-mounted, or handheld system and is field maintainable with limited equipment.
These are provided with high-performance, Gen III image intensifiers and they feature auto-gating power supplies.
The white phosphor technology provides the warfighter with greater target detection and recognition.
Low-light and nighttime maneuvers appear more natural in black and white, with added contrast detail in shapes and shadows, providing the operator with more visual information for assessment and acquisition.
The 1531 is the best-value solution to deliver night vision capability that is interchangeable across multiple operators.
Dimensions
4.6 in. L x 4.5 in. W x 3.6 in. H
Weight
< 560 g (1.23 lb.) with AA Lithium battery installed and adjustable diopter (no accessories)
Battery Type
(1) AA Lithium
Battery Life
≥ 16 hrs. avg. at 25 °C (77 °F)
≥ 50 hrs. avg. at 25 °C (77 °F) on (4) AA Lithium batteries with optional 4-cell battery pack
Field of View
40° ± 2° deg. (circular)
Objective Focus
10 in. (25 cm ±3 cm) to infinity
Eyepiece Diopter
Adjustable from +2.0 to -6.0
Image Intensification
U.S. manufactured MX-11769 Gen III variable gain tubes
Environmental
Meets MIL-STD-810
Includes Gen III I2 tubes with auto-gated technology to prevent damage in high-light environments.
High-performance white phosphor image with enhanced degree of detail in overall contrast and range of shades while providing the operator with more visual information for accurate assessment and acquisition.
Manual system gain and focus adjustments for custom image quality optimization.
Lightweight ergonomic design reduces head-borne weight and decreases neck strain.
Adjustable diopter eyepieces allows use by operators with differing visual acuity.
Integrated infrared illuminator for map reading.
Rotating binocular design allows low profile against helmet when in stowed position and the option to use as a single monocular.
Works with currently fielded dovetail helmet mounts.
Auto OFF when stowed; resumes power when deployed.
LED indicators in left and right monocular alert the operator when the BNVD has no less than 10 minutes of battery life remaining.
One of the most sought-after and frequently requested night vision products now on the commercial market is the L3Harris AN/PVS-31A Binocular Night Vision Device (BNVD)
Adopted by USSOCOM as the AN/PVS-31A, the L3Harris BNVD has been in use by U.S. Special Operations Forces for several years as well as allied forces, however, they have not been widely available on the commercial market.
The L3Harris BNVD is one of the lightest binocular night vision systems on the market, with unparalleled optical performance with lightweight optical lens assemblies optimized to maximize the performance of the Unfilmed 2376+ FOM (figure of merit).
White Phosphor image intensifier tubes, and features both an onboard AA battery and an external power connector to be used with an external power supply.
These systems will be available with the complete 4x AA Cold Weather Battery Pack and 25″ BNVS power cable with a full factory warranty and customer support.
Each unit will also come with factory image intensifier Tube Data Records with a minimum figure of merit (FOM) of 2376.
Magnification:
1 x
Night Vision Generation:
3
Length:
4.7 in
Field of View, Angle:
40 degrees
Weight:
450 g
Battery Type:
AA Lithium, Stand Alone Lithium
Focus Range:
18 in to Infinity
Diopter Adjustment Range:
– 0.5 dpt
Battery Life:
24 hours
Width:
4.2 in
Height:
3.4 in
Finish:
Matte Black
Condition:
New
Image Intensifier Tube:
Unfilmed
Image Intensifier Color:
White Phosphor
Battery Quantity:
1
Included Accessories:
Standard
Manual system gain and focus adjustments for custom image quality optimization
A lightweight ergonomic design reduces head-borne weight and decreases neck strain
Optional diopter lenses optimize operator preference for visual acuity
Rotating binocular design allows low profile against helmet when in the stowed position and ability to use as a single monocular
Works with currently fielded dovetail helmet mounts
Auto OFF when stowed; resumes power when deployed
LED indicator in left and right monocular indicates when 10 minutes or more of battery life remains
8. Steiner eOptics eOptics AN/PVS-21 Night Vision Goggles
The Steiner AN/PVS-21 Low Profile Night Vision Goggle has been designed with aggressive special operations capability in air, water, and land environments.
What makes these goggles stand out is how low profile and close to your face they are. Most goggles will stick out and protrude from your face which can get in the way and you will lose your depth perception.
The low profile design offers 3-4 inches less protrusion than conventional night vision goggles enabling a wide range of mission applications.
This lens allows the operator to perform momentary close-in tasks such as map-reading or weapon clearing. The operator can then instantly return the NVG to infinity by flipping the lens back.
Field of View
40º
Un-Aided FOV
165º horizontal and 90º vertical
Objective Focus
33cm to infinity
System Resolution
1.3 cy/mr minimum (1.4 or greater typical)
Exit Pupil
10mm on-axis
Eye Relief
15mm
EMI/EMC
MIL-std-461, class A#, REO2, RSO2, and RSO3
Battery
Single AA battery 1.5-3.6V alkaline and lithium batteries are interchangeable
Mount
Precision, quick-release mounting on helmets and head harnesses
They are heavy, but that is expective with the advantage and features these provide. They weigh 28.2 ozs by themselves and are wider than most other NVGs. With the battery pack, they will weigh slightly more.
They are 9.1″ long, 4.6″ wide, and 4.1″ high.
With the standard battery pack that is included, you should get about 8 hrs of continuous use and battery pack life. You can also carry an extra battery pack with you or purchase a larger battery pack.
All four of the monoculars and be individually focused and turn the objectives using outer channels. Their focus range is from 18″ to infinity.
The horizontal field of view is 97 degrees, which is the main selling point for the ground panoramic night vision goggle. The vertical field of view is 40 degrees which are standard for most NVG units.
There are also snap-on diopter windows available, ranging from +0.5 to -2.5, that will help the user get the best image.
The overall construction and housings are very durable and rugged.
DIMENSIONS
5.625in(L) x 8.50in(W) x 3.75in(H)
WEIGHT
27.0 oz
FINISH
FDE, Corrosion Resistant
POWER
Four (4) 3V CR123A Batteries (Remote)
BATTERY LIFE
Approx. 30 Hours
IMMERSION
One Meter for Two Hours
WARRANTY
1 Year Warranty
OPTICAL
————————————————————
GENERATION
Gen3 U.S. L3Harris
TUBE TYPE
Four 18mm MX-10160
MINIMUM FIGURE OF MERIT (SNR X LP/MM)
1792
FILM/PHOSPHOR
Unfilmed White Phosphor (P45)
GATE
Auto
GAIN
Auto
MAGNIFICATION
1x
FOV
97°
DIOPTER
Snap-On Windows -0.5 standard
FOCUS
18in to Infinity
INCLUDES
GPNVG Goggle, Remote Battery Pack, Connection Cable, Hard Storage Box, Padded Transport Case, Batteries, Lens Cleaning Kit
Individual monoculars can be detached from the system and powered with the included power adapter to provide a low-profile handheld night vision goggle.
Available with ANVIS or BNVIS mount for use with multiple helmets and mount configurations.
Modular design for maintenance and supportability including solder-free replaceable tube design and fully maintainable bridge design.
An optional cold-weather battery pack, with a selectable infrared beacon, provides better performance in cold temperatures.
Provides the operator with maximum visual information for accurate assessment and acquisition
Once you have decided on what night vision goggles you want and what are the best ones for your own budget, you need a good way to use them.
This means mounting them on a solid platform. There are two primary options, a bump helmet, and a ballistic helmet.
Bump Helmet
A bump helmet is lightweight and a good place to start. These do not offer any ballistic protection but do act as a good stable platform to mount night vision too.
These also are less expensive compared to ballistic helmets.
Team Wendy EXFIL LTP Bump Helmet
This Team Wendy LTP EXFIL Helmet offers premium protection for your head, which you’ll definitely rely on while navigating a complex operation.
The LTP stands for “Lightweight, Tactical, Polymer” – keeping you mobile, protected, and ready to handle any mission with precision and focus.
These Helmets feature the Rail 2.0 Accessory Mounting System that is compatible with all EXFIL Rail 2.0 accessories, includes two Magpul MOE Picatinny style rails, two T-Slots for custom mounting options, and a shock cord kit that stabilizes your attached night vision devices.
Now, you can have a comprehensive system that not only shields your most essential part of the body but also allows you to connect night vision goggles and other accessories that will ensure a safe and secure mission.
The Team Wendy EXFIL LTP Tactical Helmet contains a Zorbium foam liner to keep you comfortable all day and night.
Head Circumference:
23.5 – 24.75 in
Fabric/Material:
Lexan Polycarbonate Copolymer
Weight:
1.59 lb
Additional Features:
Zorbium Foam Liner, Rail 2.0 Accessory Mounting System, Boa Fit System
Team Wendy created these Helmets with a lightweight composite shell that is 15% lighter than the original EXFIL while still offering the same geometry for the best fit possible.
The Team Wendy EXFIL Ballistic SL NVG-Compatible Helmet contains a Zorbium foam liner that provides 16 customizable pads in 2 different thicknesses so that you can create a secure, comfortable fit, and you can remove the center pad to accommodate any overhead communication devices.
With Cam Lock sliders, you can adjust the helmet with one hand for a secure fit.
The Ballistic/SL Rail 3.0 system is 25% lighter than the original and is compatible with all EXFIL accessories.
Another part that you need to consider and think about is the mounting system. There are a lot of different options to mount the night vision to a helmet.
This will also depend on what model of night vision goggles you are using. The two mounts I list below are the most popular night vision mounts and are both very solid options.
What makes these Wilcox Night Vision Accessories so special is that the mount will “break away” from the base when under high stress. Such activities that may cause this stress include fast roping, hard impact, and maritime operations.
This feature prevents severe neck injuries and damage to your night vision devices. There are plenty of ways to adjust and customize the position of your night vision goggles (NVG) while using this Wilcox G24 Breakaway Helmet Mount.
Unlike other mounts, this device projects your goggles in front of your head instead of over it, reducing your profile for stealthier movement. Pull off a safe and successful mission with the help of this Wilcox G24 Breakaway NVG Mount.
This Norotos INVG HYPER Helmet Mount is an ergonomically-optimized, lightweight mounting solution for firmly securing an NVG in the desired stow position.
During operations, the accidental impact of an NVG is minimized due to the patented safety mechanisms built into the mount.
Additionally, the accidental impact of an NVG is virtually eliminated as the side-impact event absorption system sweeps the mount away, nearly eliminating side-impact events.
The safety mechanisms of the INVG HYPER Mount further maximize safety through the Force-to-Overcome design that absorbs lateral force impacts to the NVG, sweeping away as it rotates, virtually eliminating lateral impact events.
While lightweight, this mounting solution is rugged and durable, allowing for quick one-hand release from the helmet bracket or shroud with the release button.
Night vision binoculars were not on this list because I believe the popularity of night vision binoculars is not as popular as monoculars and goggles. Night vision binoculars will be added to this post in the future once more research and testing is done and I will recommend the best night vision binoculars.
Best Night Vision FAQ
Which type of night vision is the best?
If you do not want to read our list of the best night vision goggles and devices, the best night vision is the GPNVG because of its wide field of view.
What night vision do the Navy Seals use?
The Navy Seals use the GPNVG ground panoramic night vision goggles. Although this is unconfirmed, unofficially they have been seen wearing these. They are unique in the fact that they have four monocular tubes whereas standard night vision goggles only have two.
What is the highest level of night vision?
The 3rd generation of night vision devices is by far the best quality that exists today. Night vision has come a long way and the current offerings are the best.
Are night vision goggles good?
Night vision goggles can be very good with the proper unit and setup. In most cases, you will need an infrared illuminator to amplify the capabilities of night vision.
Is night vision better than thermal?
Both offerings have their time and place. Night vision is more well suited for recognizing and target identification. Whereas thermal is better at finding known targets that do not need to be identified.
18 years of professional firearms experience and expert marksmen in U.S. Army. Team leader and training officer for private security, range officer, FFL Holder and passion for firearms.
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