Night Vision

Hunting and wildlife observation are no longer technology-deprived activities. A whole world of various devices is available to outdoor enthusiasts who want to take it up a notch. Night vision devices provide new opportunities, allowing nighttime hunters to enrich their experience with new tactics and hunting methods and nature lovers to learn about nocturnal critters.

Night Vision Scopes

The market is flooded with all kinds of night vision optics. For nighttime hunting, a rifle night vision scope is a must-have. Modern night vision scopes use either thermal or digital technology. Choosing between them can become a tricky issue due to many aspects. Let’s break them down.

Thermal vs. Digital

Cost. A mid-range segment thermal night vision scope can be several times more expensive than a top digital one. It’s because of the high-cost production of thermal sensors.
Lighting and weather conditions. Digital night vision technology is useless when there is not enough light. In contrast, thermal devices detect not visible light but heat radiation and can still provide vision in absolute darkness. Severe weather conditions do not present trouble to those with thermal night vision, and, thanks to the contrasting colors, you will also be able to see through branches and bushes.
Range of detection. Digital night vision is limited to 450 yards, while thermal vision range can reach 1 mile and more.
Imagery. Digital devices deliver a better image, which helps a hunter to identify an animal species, body parts, and gender. Thermal devices, on the other hand, provide much less detail.

Let’s sum up. Digital night vision scopes provide hunters with necessary information on game species and allow them to verify the legality of an individual, but you have to sacrifice distance. However, 450 yards of the maximum detection range of a digital night vision device is enough for most hunting scenarios.

Thermal night vision scopes provide a longer range and better detection in various environments and weather conditions, but they lack detail and are more expensive than digital devices.

Choose your personal best night vision scope based on the intended application and budget.

Night Sights

Night sights are an asset to those who use pistols as a self-defense weapon. In low light conditions, they improve aiming and increase accuracy. Glock night sights are popular, but there are plenty of other brands on the market. When choosing your personal best night sights, you need to consider material, illumination, and design.

What is a night vision scope and how does it work?

A night vision scope is an optical device that allows you to see in low-light conditions or complete darkness. It works by amplifying the available light through the use of image intensifier tubes (IITs) or thermal imaging technology.

What should I consider when buying a night vision scope?

When buying a night vision scope, there are several factors to consider such as the type of IITs used, magnification power, range and accuracy, battery life, and durability. It's also important to consider your budget and intended use for the scope.

Can I use a night vision scope during the day?

While some night vision scopes have daytime modes or settings that allow them to be used during daylight hours, most are not designed for daytime use. Using a night vision scope during the day can damage the internal components and may result in permanent damage to the device. It's best to only use your night vision scope at night or in low-light conditions.