Night Vision Digital NV Scope?

[awpk03s]

I’m gonna sound like a poor and a newb all at the same time, but here goes.

All of the digital night vision scopes out there... are any of these worth a shit at all or are they just that, shit?

I have looked most at Sightmark and ATN.

My use would be only occasional low light or night use for predators/varmints around the property as things arise - no hard/dedicated night hunts or anything like that. Just thinking of another tool in the toolbox.

 

[wigwamitus]

In a word, "sh^t" ... though definitely getting better and better.

The sightmarks are hunting usable out to 100yds ... but for some reason, they've been moving the magnification in the wrong direction. About 3 models ago they had a 3x. Then a 4.5x now a 6x. The 3x has much more usable FOV at shorter distances. But those are only available used.

Now, technically "thermal" is also digital. So, the hunting usable thermals, start at around $3k street price.

 

[Rancid Coolaid]

For playing around, the Pulsars are not bad, but do require a good IR illuminator, since they are not true NV.

I had the first gen, it was usuable. There are YouTube videos and the in-person experience is very similar to the video quality.

I wouldn't spend someone else's money on Sightmark or ATN.

 

[awpk03s]

Thanks for the good responses guys, much appreciated.
I’ll look at Pulsar or else keep rubbing my pennies together until I can swing something good.

 

[Blitzy]

Not sure if this helps OP but T Rex Arms put out a very cool video comparing PVS 14 to Sony A7S II camera with IR filter removed to show what a top of the line digital sensor can really do. Future is exciting.

 

[chevy_man]

My Dad got an ATN to mess with.

It's usable with a good illuminator. The 4-14 is a joke, but 4-6x is usable.

Notice I said usable, nothing more. It has been fun to record hits even during daylight.

 

[rrflyer]

I just got a sightmark wraith delivered this weekend.

It’s badass. I just mounted and looked through it the last couple nights out to 150ish yards on my place with good moon but the image was really really good.

I had a PVS14 setup years ago but rarely used it so sold it.

 

[DavidAR10]

Pulsar N455 is the top dog. Like R K said, hit the youtube vids, especially from the ?? aficionados.
EDIT: get the Armasight 850 illuminator and a great 940nm light.
You won't regret the 3 purchases.

BUTT!!! Get the Wraith.