So, you need to see when it’s dark…
Well, other than turning on a light or waiting for daylight, what can you do?
As a matter of fact, there actually is technology that allows us to see at night… it’s called night vision and it’s used by various optical devices, including night vision binoculars.
How Do Night Vision Binoculars Work?
So, you might be wondering… how exactly does night vision work?
Night vision uses reflected natural or artificial light, which is then focused, amplified, and transformed into an image. That “light source” could be the stars and the moon, lights from lanterns or other objects, or an an illuminator (this is an element of the night vision device that uses infrared and is an artificial light source.)
Night vision devices can be divided into two categories:
- Active, which needs additional lighting – even in the form of residual external lighting;
- Passive, i.e. those that use only infrared.
High-quality night vision binoculars are similar to standard binoculars, except that darkness is not an obstacle, as it is with standard binos.
Night Vision Devices to Choose From
Night vision binoculars are not the only equipment that allows you to see in the dark. You can also choose a night vision monocular, through which you can observe the surroundings with one eye. It works well both indoors and outdoors. It is handy and can be used to view distant targets, previously equipped with adapters or connected to a telescope.
Night vision goggles are worn on the head, so you can use your hands for something else, like carrying a backpack and a shotgun. Night vision goggles require a power source and are very good in shooting sports or during military training.
Hunters also can utilize night vision technology in rifle scopes to help them hunt predators, like coyotes, at night.
Trail cameras used by hunters are typically equipped with infrared lights to capture photos and videos of wild animals during their nocturnal activities.
There are also hunting scopes that utilize night vison, for those who hunt for predators at night.
Night Vision Binoculars Features
Night vision binoculars can be divided into categories based on the night vision technologies that they utilize, which determine the binocular’s parameters.
Analog and Digital Night Vision Binoculars
Analog night vision devices/binoculars were the first iteration, and they certainly had their share of flaws. However, the second and third generation of products provide contrasting and realistic-looking images. One benefit of analog binoculars is that they are not susceptible to reflections caused by water, so you can use them in all weather conditions.
Digital night vision is a newer category of night vision devices that converts the image into an electrical signal and then displays it on a screen in front of your eyes. Digital binoculars also use this technology, and each model can have a different refresh rate. Digital night vision binoculars are one of the most popular, because they offers good quality and functionality while maintaining an affordable price.
You can also use digital night vision binoculars to take pictures and record videos. In addition, they can also be used during the day. However, one disadvantage to using digital night vision binoculars is that they tend to be susceptible to reflections.
Just like regular binoculars, each pair of night vision binoculars provides image magnification, with a wide array of ranges. Digital night vision binoculars allow you to digitally change the magnification. However, at higher magnifications, the image begins to look blurry. Analog night vision binoculars, however, only allow for a constant magnification rate.
What Are Night Vision Binoculars Used for?
The first night vision equipment was created for the needs of uniformed services, and more specifically, the military.
Today, the military and police personnel are still the primary users of night vision equipment. It’s also used by hunters, as well as scientists who conduct observations of nocturnal wildlife.
What to Consider When Picking Night Vision Binoculars
Choosing night vision binoculars is not so different from choosing regular binoculars. Pay attention to the durability of its construction, water resistance, weight, and magnification capabilities that fit the activity you will be participating in. In addition, it is a good idea to check the image quality capabilities as well as the range and battery battery life.
Binoculars with a digital cameras can be an added bonus, as they can be useful in recording your observations.
Vision… Day or Night
At the end of the day (pun intended), night vision binoculars are extremely practical devices that allow you to see at night and in low-light conditions. Thanks to advanced technology, such as ambient light amplification or infrared illuminators, they have a wide range of uses, including hunting, tourism, property protection and military/police services.
When choosing, be sure to consider whether the key features like image quality, viewing range, and durability fit the type of activity you’ll be needing them for.
Night vision binoculars can be an extremely valuable tool in the field, offering reliability and versatility, regardless of the conditions.