Night Vision Goggles (NVG) is widely used by the military and other law enforcers, for various applications such as navigation, finding people in dark places, or for surveillance. It is also called as:
- NOD – Night Optical Device or Night Observation Device
- NVD – Night Vision Device
Technically speaking, NVG is an optoelectronic device that permits images to be created in various brightness or light levels when proceeding towards darkness. This device converts images into near-infrared (IR) and visible light combined.
Some NVG performs thermal infrared or thermal imaging detection, which reads the heat signature of the target. The image being produced by this device comes in monochrome (i.e. green shade).
Our Top 3 Recommendations
Best Overall
- Resolution: 64 lp/mm
- Field of View: 97°
- Focus Range: 45 cm to infinity
Best Performance
- Field of View: 40°
- Focus Range: 33 cm to infinity
- Eye Relief: 50mm
Although it is used by the military officers for their operations, and it is also made available to the public, specifically civilian users.
Night Vision Goggle (NVG) is basically built using a waterproof housing structure, image-viewer intensifier tube with mount, and other optical compositions such as mirrors and telescopic lenses.
There are also cases when this device includes an infrared (IR) illuminator, which makes it active rather than a passive device.
10 Best Night Vision Goggles in 2022
- Best Overall - EOTech Ground Panoramic Night Vision Goggles
- Best Performance - Steiner eOptics “AN/PVS-21” Night Vision Goggles
- Best Value - Bering Optics PVS-7BE Night Vision Goggles
- Best Military Night Vision Goggle - AGM Global Vision Apache A9 Aviator
- Best Night Vision Goggle for Money - ATN PS15-4 Night Vision Goggles
- Versatile Night Vision Goggle - ATN PS15-3W Night Vision Googles
- Best Dual Goggles - ATN PS31-3W 1x Dual Night Vision Goggles
- Rugged Night Vision Goggle - Armasight PVS7-HD Night Vision Goggle
- Budget Night Vision Goggle - AGM Global Vision Night Vision Goggles
- Lightweight Night Vision Goggle - ATN NVG7-3W Gen 3 “White Phosphor”
Night Vision Goggles made their debut during the World War II Era and have been widely utilized during the Vietnam War. Since then, this device has greatly improved due to technological advancement over the years.
Using this device is not limited to military uses. It can also be applied in hunting wild animals, drivers, and even aviation.
This device greatly compensates for human’s inability to see under lower light conditions as compared with animals due to lack of tapetum lucidum. Having a Night Vision Device helps in hunting most, especially if your riflescope does not have a night vision component.
It is difficult to pick the right quality of night vision goggles among the plenty of models available on the market.
This article will help you determine the best night vision goggles that you might like, along with some factors to take into consideration before purchasing. Let us proceed.
10 Best Night Vision Goggles in 2022 – Reviewed
1. EOTech Ground Panoramic Night Vision Goggles
When it comes to NVGs, you have to be prepared to pay a huge amount of money since you should consider it as an investment.
EOTech Ground Panoramic Night Vision Goggles is an expensive product since it is packed with excellent features to provide you great performance.. It can be said that despite its expensive, its performance will not diminish. It is one of the best night vision goggles for the money available on the market.
Under dimmer environments, you can easily identify and observe your targets, especially when you prefer hunting at night.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1x
- Field of View: 97°
- Resolution: 64 lp/mm
- Focus Range: 18 inches to Infinity
- Battery Type: 3V CR123A
- Battery Life: 30 hours
- Dimensions: 5.6 x 8.5 x 3.7 inches
- Weight: 27 oz
It has been engineered with greatness in mind, which features a wider horizontal FOV that measures 97° to enhance your awareness of your surroundings. It can easily be adjusted for other applications that should suit your preferences.
EOTech GPNVG is flexible enough as it can be detached away from its system and be operated using other power sources, which makes it stand-alone handheld equipment. Its focus can range from 45cm to ∞ which makes it good.
EOTech GPNVG is helmet-mounted. It features an intensified image using a white phosphor-tube technology for improved and enhanced target recognition or target detection under a dark environment.
Although it appears in “black” and “white” more naturally, this device has other contrast details when it comes to shape and shadow that provides you with more visuals for both acquisition and assessment. It enables you to have a more compelling result with deep perception.
EOTech Ground Panoramic Night Vision Goggles ( GPNVG ) use 4pcs of 18mm MX 10160 style. It has an infrared beacon for better optical performance under colder temperatures while using at least 2 battery types – DL123 x 4 and AA x 4.
This device has passed the environmental qualifications under MIL-STD-810G. It has an adaptable design that takes supportability and maintenance into consideration. EOTech GPNVG can also be mounted for either “ANVIS” or “BNVIS” mount type.
Pros
- Flexible
- Helmet-mounted
- Easy to use
Cons
- Expensive
2. Steiner eOptics “AN/PVS-21” Low Profile Night Vision Goggles
Steiner eOptics “AN/PVS-21” Low Profile Night Vision Goggles is another versatile NVG. This device has been designed to handle even the harshest conditions.
It can aggressively be operated under special environments that include the air, the water as well as the land. If you’re looking for the best night vision goggle for hunting on the market, this one is the perfect choice for you.
This device has a patent design for a low profile while offering an estimated measurement of 3 inches to 4 inches less protrusion than most conventional night vision devices that enable a wider thermal field of view imagery for military operations.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1x
- System Resolution: 1.3 cy/mr minimum
- Field of View: 165 degree and 90 degree verticle
- Eye Relief: 15 mm
- Battery Type: AA
- Weight: 26.8 oz
Steiner eOptics “AN/PVS-21” LPNVG has a sturdy built and ruggedness that can withstand even aggressive and harsh terrain when you are out on the field for hunting.
It can perform well even if you are inside a vehicle that moves at a higher speed or when jumping out of the helicopter using a parachute. You can easily acquire your target without spending much effort.
In addition to that, this NVG model has proven its worth when used as part of the military weaponry and equipment. Thus, it is the best military night vision goggles on the market.
It aids the soldiers more effectively when dealing with urban and close quarter combat operations. The Steiner eOptics “AN/PVS-21” LPNVG comes with sensor fusion technology that provides them more enhanced eyesight and awareness in any situation they might encounter.
Steiner eOptics “AN/PVS-21” LPNVG utilizes superior technological advancement while keeping innovation in mind. With advanced imaging systems, the military personnel can complete their missions easily, most especially when saving captive civilians against terrorists.
This device also includes a parachute operation with free fall as well as static lines for its optical performance.
Significantly, this NVG model can eliminate the occurrence of vertigo as well as tunnel vision, which have been associated with other conventional systems under other similar products.
It reduces the central gravity force, which makes the way in providing greater comfort and long eye relief. Moreover, it has a lightweight design, which makes it easier to move with much mobility.
Pros
- Multi-purpose
- Weather-proof
- Long eye relief
Cons
- Limited range
3. Bering Optics PVS-7BE Night Vision Goggles
If you’re looking for the best budget night vision goggles with high-quality features, this Bering Optics PVS-7BE Night Vision Goggle is the perfect choice for your needs on the market.
This night vision goggle improves your hunting experience while hunting on the field. It provides an accurate view of the target in low-light conditions without any available natural light.
This can be mounted with your head to provide hands-free operation, so you don’t need to hold this while hunting or shooting on the field, and it makes you comfortable.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1x
- Objective Lens: 26 mm
- Field of View: 40 degrees
- Eye Relief: 15 mm
- Focus Range: 10 in to Infinity
- Battery Type: AA
- Dimensions: 7.7 x 6.2 x 3.5 inches
- Weight: 23.3 oz
It comes with a fixed 1x magnification that allows you to view the objects from a particular distance with better accuracy. The objective lens of this night vision goggle is 26mm that provides better target images with more brightness.
The lens present in this scope has high-quality that provides a crystal clear view of the target in any conditions. This Bering night vision optics has various excellent features that many premium goggles provide.
It is widely used for surveillance and rescue operations in dark conditions so many professionals prefer this night vision goggle for better performance.
You can’t find a better lens than this in any goggles at this price range. The sophisticated electronics present in this night vision goggle switch off the device when excluded from the head mount.
This is one of the impressive features of this night vision goggle, so you don’t need to activate or deactivate it manually. It comes with brightness control settings that automatically adjust the brightness based on the available light condition.
Moreover, it contains an auto shut down feature that automatically turns off the system when you move to the bright light condition that helps to save the battery life.
This night vision goggle comes with the infrared illuminator that improves the visibility during hunting in low-light conditions. It comes with various accessories that allow you to mount this night vision goggle on your head easily.
Pros
- Light in weight
- Auto brightness level
- Excellent battery life
Cons
- Not Weather-proof
4. AGM Global Vision Apache A9 Aviator Night Vision Goggles
AGM Global Vision Apache A9 Aviator Night Vision Goggles have been designed specifically for military purposes. This is the perfect choice if you’re looking for the military night vision goggles for your needs.
Its design has taken its inspiration from the US Forces’ ANVIS Goggles, which is part of the series AN/AVS-6(v)/9. It can be considered as not too costly and, at the same time, a product with great qualities since it is the best night vision goggle for the money.
This product has stepped up on its game by bringing the standards from both P43’s green phosphor and P45’s high contrast white phosphor “image intensifier” (I2) tubes. It is equipped with both Class A and Class B filtered coatings on its objective lenses, which offers a field of view of 40 degrees at minimum.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1x
- System Resolution: 1.3cy/mR minimum
- Field of View: 40 degrees
- Eye Relief: 27 mm
- Focus Range: 25cm to infinity
- Battery Type: AA
- Dimensions: 7.7 x 6.2 x 3.5 inches
- Weight: 17.64 oz
It has a fixed magnification of 1x and provides an eye relief eyepiece that measures 27mm. Moreover, its diopters can be adjusted between +2 and -6 for the corrective lens.
It even accommodates an interpupillary that spans from 51 mm to 72 mm while providing 10 degrees of tilt settings, which greatly compensates for the in-service helmet’s wider range of applications.
When it comes to the range of its focus settings, it can cover 0.25m up to ∞. This device is operated by a AA Battery x 4, which acts as the power source for its optical performance.
Additionally, its operating life can last for up to 80++ hours, which is a great feature when exploring darker places or a great benefit for night hunters.
When it comes to its system’s optical resolution, it boasts 1.3cy/mR minimum. Significantly, this device uses a 3rd generation night vision system, which allows you to see your target easily through their own emitted heat signatures. This NVG product even passed the environmental qualifications set under MIL-STD-810G.
Pros
- Multi-coated lens
- Versatile
- Extended battery life
Cons
- Doesn't include accessories
5. ATN PS15-4 Night Vision Goggles
If you are on a tight budget and wish to purchase a night vision goggle under $10000, you may want to consider having ATN PS15-4 Night Vision Goggles.
With great features, you can fully experience wildlife exploration even at night, which might show you its magnificent and enchanting scenery and animals that only show at night. This ATN PS15-4 is one of the best night vision goggles for wildlife.
It has a compact and lightweight design that offers much mobility to you while using. This device utilizes even the most advanced night vision technological system that is available in the world’s current trends. It was also recognized as professional-grade equipment used by the military and law enforcers.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1x
- Objective Lens: 27 mm
- System Resolution: 64 – 72 lp/mm
- Field of View: 40 degrees
- Eye Relief: 25 mm
- Focus Range: 0.25 m to Infinity
- Battery Type: CR123A
- Weight: 1.5 lb
Using a 4th Generation Image Intensifier (I2) Tube System, it greatly improves night vision solution, resulting in an exceptionally clear and sharper image even under the darkest environments or lowest light conditions. Its dual-tube design impacts the depth of its perception and increases its clarity more drastically.
ATN PS15-4 Night Vision Goggles has an embedded infrared (IR) illuminator, which allows you to read the map easily or handle the functions smoothly despite the darkness.
It has a fixed magnification power of 1x that offers a wider field of view that measures at least 40 degrees. It is operated by a CR123A Lithium Battery and works well under -40°C to 50°C temperature levels.
Its focus range is about 0.25m up to ∞ with an objective lens of 27mm. Moreover, it can also withstand tough environments without clouding or fogging your view through the lenses.
It can even hold itself against water, which allows it to work perfectly despite the rainy weather. It also provides an eye relief of 25mm, preventing any discomfort when using the device.
There is no doubt that this night vision goggles can give you a high-level optical performance and quality that works excellently at night.
Pros
- High-resolution
- Less weight
- Wide field of view
Cons
- Uncomfortable head mount
6. ATN PS15-3W Night Vision Googles
ATN PS15-3W Night Vision Goggles is one of the best night vision goggles for money from ATN that allows you to enjoy improved sight capabilities for night viewing. It can be widely used in versatile applications. With the ATN PS15-3W, you can fully experience life in the wild and Explore dimmer environments without any worries.
It has a compact design while being lightweight at the same time. With its weight, it won’t restrict your movements. It has a sturdy built which prevents damage from precipitation or other weather conditions.
It can also hold itself against water, which allows you to hunt animals or explore the surroundings despite the rainy nighttime. It can operate well under a varying temperature that ranges between -40°F and 122°F.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1x
- Objective Lens: 27 mm
- System Resolution: 64 – 72 lp/mm
- Field of View: 40 degrees
- Eye Relief: 25 mm
- Focus Range: 0.25 yds to infinity
- Battery Type: CR123A
- Battery Life: 60 hours
- Weight: 1.5 lb
What makes it a good investment is its enhanced 3rd Generation infrared (IR) illuminator system, which improves your sight abilities at night. If you are a hog hunter, this device can help you determine and pick up the heat sensor of your prey, making it easier for you to take it down.
It can prove its excellent performance when used for military and tactical purposes, giving the special forces the upper hand when executing some secret operations at night, such as raids or saving captive civilians by lawbreakers.
Picking up the heat signature within the scope of the device allows them to perfectly execute the plan with higher chances of success.
It has a magnification level of 1x that offers a minimum of 40 degrees for the scope of its field of view. Its range of focus measures 0.25m up to ∞. The optical lenses of this product are coated with a special coating called Proshield, which fortifies its strength and defenses against tough situations.
ATN PS15-3W Night Vision Goggles is operated by a CR123A Battery that can last for up to 60++ hours of continuous use, which makes it a great ally at night for hunting or for venturing within a darker environment during the day.
It can even enhance your situational awareness, which might become necessary when facing a dangerous situation. Additionally, you can even use this device hands-free, which lessens any hassle when moving or running.
For maintenance purposes, it is important to note that this night vision goggles should be stored under -58°F to 158°F temperature levels.
Pros
- Compact & Lightweight
- Rugged construction
- Long operation
Cons
- Difficult to adjust
7. ATN PS31-3W 1x Dual Night Vision Goggles
ATN PS31-3W 1x Dual Night Vision Goggles provides a dual night vision technology that can be likened to high-quality products when it comes to quality minus their exorbitant price.
You can utilize its two-fold performance of higher quality through its image intensifier (I2) system. The I2 system lets you experience clarity at its finest while delivering razor-sharp optical experience under the lowest light conditions.
Thanks to the dual design tube of this product, you can experience its distinct features fully, which includes an increase in its depth insight and excellent visual clarity.
ATN PS31-3W 1x Dual Night Vision Goggles has an embedded infrared (IR) illuminator system that allows you to read maps or even handle its function, despite the complete darkness.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1x
- System Resolution: 51-64 lp/mm
- Field of View: 50 degrees
- Eye Relief: 25 mm
- Focus Range: 0.25 yards to infinity
- Battery Type: CR123A
- Battery Life: 60 hours
- Dimensions: 7 x 4.5 x 3.2 inches
- Weight: 20.3 oz
It is versatile enough when it comes to adjusting its settings, which is advantageous for military operations on top of its added flexibility and mobility for the user.
The ATN PS31-3W also operates on a fixed magnification level of 1x that boasts a larger field of view compared to other models or products. It has a wider 50 degrees FOV with a focus range of 0.25m up to ∞. It is quite an ace when on a battlefield.
It can be operated without the use of your hands, which makes it a lot easier to move or to run when needed. This is especially true for those in special missions or for hunters.
You can just place it on top of your head thanks to its helmet-like mount, which allows you to work comfortably.
ATN PS31-3W 1x Dual Night Vision Goggles operates using a CR123A Battery, of which its LED indicator can be shown in its field of view. It has been made to withstand the harsh conditions set by nature, making it durable.
Moreover, it had passed the IP65 rating for resistance against water, which allows you to use the device despite the rain at night. For its optical system resolution, this device can provide you with 64 lp/mm and a diopter range of -5 to +5 dpt.
Pros
- Unique features
- Suitable for military operations
- Water-resistant
Cons
- Lacks in long view
8. Armasight PVS7-HD Night Vision Goggle
If you’re a military officer and looking for the best night vision goggle for your security operation, then this Armasight PVS7-HD Night Vision Goggle will be your perfect companion.
It is one of the best night vision goggles military available on the market with great features. The Armasight PVS7-HD Night Vision Goggle is preferred by many professionals with for incredible performance and excellent durability on the battlefield.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1x
- System Resolution: 55 to 72 lp/mm
- Field of View: 40 degrees
- Eye Relief: 25 mm
- Focus Range: 0.65 ft to infinity
- Battery Type: AA
- Battery Life: 30 hours
- Dimensions: 6.4 x 6 x 3 inches
- Weight: 1.50 lb
Armasight is one of the well-known companies that manufacture high-quality night vision devices on the market. Armasight designed this night vision goggle with high-definition optics and a Gen 2 image intensifier tube to provide sharp and bright images of the target in low-light conditions.
It contains ABC (Automatic Brightness Control) that changes the brightness of the tube based on the available light of surrounding environments. It comes with rugged construction that allows it to withstand harsh environmental conditions without any damage.
This PVS7-HD night vision goggle is built with high-quality, durable material to ensure durable construction and reliable performance in any condition. It contains a built-in IR illuminator that improves the brightness of the image to help you view it in low-light conditions.
This night vision goggle is water-proof, so you can use this in all weather conditions without any restriction.
You can convert this night vision goggle helmet-mounted for hands-free operation with more convenience. Get clear visibility with this PVS7-HD Gen 2 night vision goggle in low-light conditions.
Pros
- Compact and rugged construction
- Durable
- Crisp and bright images
- Auto Brightness Control
Cons
- A bit pricey for budget users
9. AGM Global Vision “NVG-40 Dual Tube” Night Vision Goggles
Are you looking for the quality night vision goggles without spending much money? The AGM Global vision is the best cheap night vision goggles.
AGM Global Vision “NVG-40 Dual Tube” Night Vision Goggles has a dual tube night vision system that offers a 1x fixed magnification range, allowing you to reach a field of view that measures up to 40 degrees for observation and surveillance purposes without moving the device that much.
This product has incorporated an advanced multicoated optical technology for enhanced visual presentation. It has been designed and built with quality materials, promising a compact and sturdy composite house.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1x
- Objective Lens: 27 mm
- Resolution: 72 lp/mm
- Field of View: 40 degrees
- Eye Relief: 25 mm
- Focus Range: 0.25 m to infinity
- Battery Type: CR123A
- Battery Life: 80 hours
- Length: 4.6 inches
Its objective lens measures 27mm in diameter, which also played a role in better optical performance when it comes to NVGs.
AGM Global Vision “NVG-40 Dual Tube” Night Vision Goggles can be powered by either AA Alkaline Battery (1pc) or CR123A Lithium Battery. Depending on the frequency of this device’s usage, the battery can last for at least 20++ hours.
Whenever you go out for hunting at night, this night vision goggles won’t let you down. It is equipped with a powerful integral infrared (IR) illuminator system, which aids your sight in darker environments. Have confidence as this product promotes a “true” stereoscopic vision that can optimize your sight at night.
This Ergonomically designed goggle is compact and lightweight, which promotes more mobility when faced with danger.
The control system is easy to adjust, even for beginners. Moreover, AGM Global Vision “NVG-40 Dual Tube” Night Vision Goggles can be used for either a helmet mount or head mount, which is beneficial for more flexibility and mobility.
Pros
- Convenient
- Versatile
- Less power consumption
Cons
- Lacks in visibility
10. ATN NVG7-3W Gen 3 “White Phosphor” Night Vision Goggles
Another versatile product from ATN, you can be assured that it won’t let you down. With this, you will enjoy going outdoors at night without much inferiority thanks to ATN NVG7-3W Gen 3 “White Phosphor” Night Vision Goggles’ night vision system.
Considered as a top-class optical performer, this device will give you the best night sight of 1x magnification at an affordable price. It is one of the best gen 3 night vision goggles for the money.
It has a lightweight, rugged, and compact design, which makes it a great choice for hands-free operation. This will be your best hands free night vision goggles to give you more flexibility as well as mobility at night, most especially if you encounter dangerous feral animals at night.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1x
- Resolution: 64 lp/mm
- Field of View: 50 degrees
- Focus Range: 0.25 m to infinity
- Battery Type: CR123
- Battery Life: 60 hours
- Length: 7 inches
- Weight: 1.27 Pound
This product features a high resolution and high definition image intensifier system, which can automatically adjust its brightness depending on the environment you might be into. It also includes a bright source shut off control for easy programming when necessary.
This NVG device has an embedded infrared (IR) illuminator using a 3rd Generation Night Vision System, which is quite beneficial and a great advantage when you delved into total darkness.
Powered by a Lithium Battery, its illumination and NV system can last for up to 50++ hours. The indicator can be located within the F.O.V. System for easy monitoring.
Its lenses are coated with a specialized Proshield coating, which prevents precipitation or harsh weather conditions from damaging its optics.
It is resistant to fogging and water moisture, which won’t hinder your sight when using this device. It is exceptional as it uses a white phosphor as its image enhancement intensifier.
Pros
- Long-lasting battery life
- Advanced night vision
- Weather-resistance
Cons
- A bit pricy
Comparison of Best Night Vision Goggles
| Products | EOTech Ground Panoramic | Steiner eOptics | Bering Optics | AGM Global Vision Apache A9 | ATN PS15-4 | ATN PS15-3W | ATN PS31-3W | Pulsar Edge | AGM Global Vision NVG-40 | ATN NVG7-3W |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magnification | 1x | 1x | 1x | 1x | 1x | 1x | 1x | 1x | 1x | 1x |
| Objective Lens | - | - | 26mm | - | 27mm | 27mm | - | 21mm | 27mm | 27mm |
| Field of View | 97 degrees | 40 degrees | 40 degrees | 40 degrees | 40 degrees | 40 degrees | 50 degrees | 40 degrees | 40 degrees | 40 degrees |
| Focus Range | 45 cm to infinity | 33 cm to infinity | 10 inch to infinity | 25 cm to infinity | 25 cm to infinity | 0.25 yds to infinity | 0.25 yds to infinity | 20 cm to infinity | 25 cm to infinity | 75 ft to infinity |
| Weight | 28.2 oz | 26.8 oz | 17.6 oz | 17.6 oz | 24 oz | 24.6 oz | 20.3 oz | 22.9 oz | 64 oz | 24 oz |
| Battery | AA | AA | AA | AA | CR123A | CR123A | CR123 | AAA | AA, CR123A | CR123A Lithium |
| Learn more |
Video : 10 Best Night Vision Goggles
Benefits of Night Vision Goggles
One of the most important benefits of using a night vision goggle is that it allows you to view the objects clearly during low-light conditions without needing an extra light source.
The night vision goggles can be used in various applications for better visibility in low light conditions. If you’re driving at night, the night vision goggle for driving will help you to improve the visibility and allows you to see the targets more clearly.
The best night vision goggle provides you the improved vision of the target using thermal imaging technology or infrared. The night vision goggles are mainly used by the many military officers in various operations.
Moreover, it is ideal for hunting during night time with a limited amount of light in the environment. It provides better visibility and a crystal clear view of the target.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who hunts during dusk conditions, then the night vision goggles will be your perfect companion.
Hunting or hiking during the night time may cause various dangerous elements, so having a quality night vision scope improves the accuracy and provides an excellent experience.
You can make DIY night vision goggles at home using the household materials. It is one of the best science projects for many kids and they love to do it themselves.
If you’re a professional hunter and looking for a best night vision goggles for hunting, then you can go with high-quality night vision goggles from standard brands.
If you want to know more applications of night vision goggles, reading our information article provides you enough information.
Best Night Vision Goggle Brands
There are many companies that manufacture high-quality night vision goggles on the market. Here, we’ve listed some best night vision goggles brands in detail.
ATN
ATN is an American company that was established in the year of 1995. It is one of the top most companies that manufactures high-quality night vision optics that provides a clear view of the target during nighttime.
It produces lots of optics with 4K resolution to bring HD images with sharp details during dark conditions. ATN is perfect for manufacturing professional hunters, military officers, law enforcement, and outdoor enthusiasts.
BESTGUARDER
Bestguarder is one of the well-known brands that manufacture high-quality optics for various outdoor enthusiasts during night conditions.
It specially designs many outdoor gears for hunting and camping activities to provide a great experience. The night vision goggle is one of their best optic that has a standard reputation among many professional hunters on the market.
AGM Global Vision
AGM Global Vision is one of the leading manufacturing companies in the optics industry that produces various devices such as riflescopes, binoculars, monoculars, spotting scopes, goggles, etc., with advanced technologies.
The goggles from the AGM brand have various high-quality features to provide a better experience and satisfy every hunter’s needs on the field.
Types of Night Vision Goggles
Night vision goggles available in two types such as thermal night vision goggles and IR night vision goggles that are used in various outdoor activities at night.
Basically, night vision goggles use ambient light that gives you the clear images in dark conditions so you can easily identify your target. Nowadays, night vision goggles using thermal and infrared technology instead of these outdated technology.
Infrared Night Vision
Infrared night vision is an advanced technology that provides you a high-clarity image of your target without requiring ambient light around the target area.
The infrared type of night vision goggles needs Infrared rays to capture the target image. The Infrared rays are emitted by the things that emit the heat.
Therefore, with the infrared night goggles, you will get a clear image of your target in no light conditions without the need of ambient light. With these, you can see the differences in temperatures in various objects.
Thermal Night Vision
The working of thermal night vision technology is similar to the infrared night vision technology. It works by the heat that the object emits and not the IR rays.
The thermal night vision goggles provide excellent images in any conditions. Therefore, it is an ideal choice for the outdoor enthusiasts to work in all situations.
These type of goggles also can be used in the day time, unlike the infrared night vision goggles. It works only based on the heat produced by the object and not the surrounding light available in the area.
Night Vision Goggle Accessories
When it comes to night vision goggles, there are several additional accessories available in the market that ensure the excellent performance in the field.
Having a quality add-on for your night vision goggle allows you to work in any light conditions and weather conditions without making you strain.
Helmets
Having a best helmet for your night vision goggles provides you a better hands-free operation. Also, you should have the good mount to fix your night vision goggles on the helmet.
This helmet allows you to use the night vision goggles for a long time without getting tired. Before going for an operation, you have to make sure that the helmet is mounted properly on your night vision goggles. It is an essential option for rescue and law-enforcement operations.
Illuminator
If you’re going for a secret operation and want to acquire your target without giving up your position, you should have an infrared illuminator.
Infrared illuminator plays an important role in wildlife observation and surveillance without showing your presence to the animals.
This device emits the invisible light that is invisible to the human eye into the IR spectrum. The IR illuminator works as a flashlight for the night vision devices.
Mounting Options
If you’re not a rescuer and law-enforcement office and doesn’t require a helmet, then you have to choose the head-mounted or tripod mounting night vision goggles. The tripods are a suitable option for pair of night vision goggles.
IR Laser
If you’re targeting an object that is in long-distance, then the IR laser is the right tool that allows you to identify the target with the invisible light that the human eye can’t see. IR laser is the perfect device for the hunter, shooter, and military officers
Counterbalance
Counterbalance is one of the important devices while using the night vision goggles. Without counterbalance, the night vision goggles make you feel heavy and add weight to the front of your head.
It makes your neck tired, so you should have a weight on the backside of your head. Therefore, use a counterbalance to get an excellent performance.
The counterbalance pouch comes with its own weight, and you can also add the weight to balance the goggles.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Night Vision Goggles
When buying night vision goggles, there are several things that you have to consider most, especially when used for outdoor applications. These are as follows:
1. Resolution Quality
When venturing in the wild, it is important to note that having a high-quality resolution and high definition image quality is important.
This trait allows you to check the proximity of the animals and objects that surrounds you and your peers or co-hunters. It also allows you to have an enhanced situational analysis when necessary or when in danger.
2. Generation
Night Vision Goggles comes with three types of generations, such as Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3. Each generation has different features and performance based on its advancements.
Gen 1 provides the low-resolution 75-yards of detection range at less price, while gen 2 provides a 200-yards detection range, long battery life, and it is suitable for outdoor activities like hunting, shooting, etc.
Gen 3 is expensive when compared to the previous generations, and it is preferred by the U.S military forces due to its great features such as a 300-yards detection range and long-lasting battery life. You have to select the generation based on the things that you planned to do.
3. Thermal Imaging Feature
Nowadays, the most advanced NVG includes the detection of heat energy emitted by animals. It is a great advantage when venturing into the wild, most especially at night.
This feature is also a great help for most hunters that are targeting feral animals such as wild boars. This feature is done with the use of an infrared light system, which allows you to see the target at night.
Unfortunately, if there are other objects that emit heat signature, it might hinder the efficiency of this device.
4. Resistance
Just like any other product, it is important to note if the product you are buying has resistance against various weather conditions.
We can all agree that we can never predict the weather forecast at 100%. This is heavily implied since we are suffering from global warming, which greatly affects nature and the weather as a whole. Having a Night Vision Goggle that is weatherproof can surely make a difference on the field when it comes to survival and hunting.
5. Clarity and Lighting Quality
A Night Vision Goggle with light adjustment can greatly help since the eyes of humans are not capable of seeing things clearly at night.
If the light is being amplified, it will allow you to see greater things with much clarity even when the night falls. Most devices that include this vital feature embed IR imaging technology for a more versatile product.
6. Weight
Considering weight is very important while purchasing the right night vision goggle for your needs since most people mount this on their helmets for a long period.
If it is heavy in weight, it strains the user’s neck and makes them tired quickly. Thus, choose the night vision goggles that are made of professional-grade materials that weigh under 2 pounds.
Although, if you want to go for tactical night vision goggles, you have to be prepared to do neck exercises because they come with more than three lenses and heavyweight.
7. Durability
Generally, night vision goggles are constructed to use in hard outdoor environments. In this case, it comes with better durability to withstand any unexpected rugged situations, and it provides excellent performance.
Before choosing the night vision goggle that will last longer, check whether the goggle is built with durable aluminum materials.
Thus, choose the high-quality aluminum body night vision goggles instead of wasting money on the plastic bodies. Also, you have to examine the lenses used in night vision goggles.
8. Range
The range of the night vision goggles determines the quality that they have. Usually, the hobbyist adventurer will never choose the military-grade goggles; they always prefer the basic goggles with normal ranges.
Night vision has two effective ranges, such as recognition range and detection range. Gen 3 provides an excellent range of viewing at 300 yards that allows you to see the person clearly in the night.
With the range provided by gen 1, you can recognize the object and its condition. Thus, the range is essential in night vision goggles to view the objects.
9. Integral Illuminator
If you want to reduce the overall weight of your night vision goggles, then looking for an integral illuminator is very important.
It decreases the weight and makes you comfortable even if it is with the additional accessories. It allows you to view the objects in low or no light conditions even the goggle is not in use.
Moreover, the integral illuminator helps you to signal your move to the other person quickly.
10. Autogated
Looking for autogated devices when choosing night vision goggles as it prevents you from the dangerous bright lights.
The autogated devices automatically control the bright lights when shooting, moving, etc., and it is very handy, so you can carry this anywhere.
Though expensive, it is an essential thing when it comes to high-quality devices. It protects you in low-light conditions and hard environments.
11. Weather Resistance
Weather resistance is one of the important factors that you should consider before buying the optics for outdoor activities.
Generally, night vision goggles can be used during hunting, shooting, and other outdoor adventures. Thus, you have to check the goggle you will buy is weather-proof or not.
The night vision goggles with weather resistance can work well during raining, fogging, and it withstands any weather conditions.
12. Battery
Battery determines the performance of the night vision goggles. Choosing the night vision goggles with long-lasting batteries provides the extended performance in outdoor environments.
Therefore, the battery is also important while buying goggles for your needs. Some goggles come with extra batteries that help you when the battery drained out.
13. Cost
Owning a Night Vision Goggles is not that easy. It costs you quite a fortune, which means you have to plan out your budget before buying one. You also have to note its purpose for you since buying NVG signifies a long-term investment.
Conclusion
As technology advances, our way of living has been greatly affected. With that, each person’s lifestyle has also changed. Everyone is fond of traveling and engaging in other outdoor activities, which includes hunting. When experiencing the wildlife, one of the must-haves for others is a Night Vision Goggles.
Although it has its own purpose when used for military and tactical applications, there is no doubt that NVG has made its way to the civilians. If you want to enjoy your outdoor adventure, you might want to have a Night Vision Goggles.
I hope that this article will help you in finding the right NVG for you.