No sir, the filmless tubes are extremely robust. The only claims that I have heard repeated that may be substantiated in relation to tube life is in regards to generation 2 tubes like the photonis offerings. To be brief, the method in which these tubes operate to achieve the performance that they provide is said by some to over drive the tube and can lead to a shortened "Life Span". However lifespan is represented as mean time to failure, and failure represents a significant decrease in performance, not specifically a complete inoperable event. All this being said, I would not let any of this concern you as in my experience, tubes will last forever under normal, reasonable use and if you take care of them. I feel that a lot of these figures were quantified based on a requirement by government contracts to include such data. If you have anymore questions please do not hesitate to message me or text/ call me at 832-621-5832.
Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you.
Kevin Holland II
Kosher Surplus
Night Vision Guy (I guess this is my job title)