Mar

What is Night Vision and what do the different generations mean?

By admin

UNDERSTANDING NIGHT VISION AND THE TYPES OF NIGHT VISION DEVICES

Night vision is just that – seeing your target when it is completely dark. Night rifle scopes gather any existing light – starlight, moonlight – and filter it through the front lens – it then goes through a complicated refraction process within the scope and it then amplifies it back into visible light through the eyepiece. This refracted light gives you a scene through a “greenish light”.

ATN MK 410 NIGHT VISION WEAPON SIGHT RIFLE SCOPE MK 410 21 Bids US $401.00

There are FOUR TYPES OF NIGHT VISION – they are referred to as 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Generation. This denotes the difference in the type of tube within the rifle scope that intensifies the light.

1st Generation Night Vision

These are the most popular whether hunting, boating or hiking. They amplify any existing light several thousand times ensuring that you can see in the dark. They are inexpensive and provide a relatively bright and clear image. The downside is that they do “whine” when first turned on and the image can be a bit blurry around the edges. It may also still glow green for a bit after turned off.

2nd Generation Night Vision

This is a higher-cost device as they have an MCP (micro-channel plate) which gives a brighter, clearer image than 1st Generation. This is the typical rifle scope used by law enforcement and professional purposes.

3rd Generation Night Vision Rifle Scopes

This scope is a ramp up from the 2nd generation rifle scope. It is easier to use, has a brighter, sharper image where very little light is available. It is also made with an “ion barrier film” increasing the tube life making it a more durable device.

4th Generation Night Vision Rifle Scopes

At this time in the technology, this is the ultimate. They have the best resolution in extremely low light scenarios. The cost is extremely high, but the performance of 4th Generation Rifle Scopes are unparalleled and can provide visibility in near zero light situations.