Night Vision Newbie Qs: D760 or PVS14+SpecterDR?

[One-Eyed Jack]

I'd like to get into NV observation and shooting, but I don't know enough about it. At this point I'm honing on on two possibilities, but need to know more about them.

* D-760/MV-760 6x scope (on an AR-15), or

* PVS-14 in combination with a 4x optic like the ELCAN 1x/4x SpecterDR that I already have in hand.

My questions have to do with the PVS-14 in combination with a day optic: what are the problems and limitations in this type of setup? The SpecterDR has NV settings. What equipment would I need with the PVS-14 to make it work?

I know that IR illuminators are used with NV equipment, but is there a use for green lasers (535nm) since I already have a bright one?

 

[Victor-TNVC]

Re: Newbie Qs: D760 or PVS14+SpecterDR?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: One-Eyed Jack</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I'd like to get into NV observation and shooting, but I don't know enough about it. At this point I'm honing on on two possibilities, but need to know more about them.

* D-760/MV-760 6x scope (on an AR-15), or

* PVS-14 in combination with a 4x optic like the ELCAN 1x/4x SpecterDR that I already have in hand.

My questions have to do with the PVS-14 in combination with a day optic: what are the problems and limitations in this type of setup? The SpecterDR has NV settings. What equipment would I need with the PVS-14 to make it work?

I know that IR illuminators are used with NV equipment, but is there a use for green lasers (535nm) since I already have a bright one? </div></div>

The DR's will work with a PVS-14 behind the unit. While I have not tried the latest DR build, the review of the initial units released had a very good NV setting red dot. The lit reticle though was too bright. You can select one or the other though. Note, you may have to place your DR a few slots forward on your pic rail which gets your nose a bit over the charging handle to get the full FOV in this setup.

As for attaching a 14 to the back of a day scope. While it works well from 4-6x, you will either have to move your scope forward to get a good check weld (lose your day dope) or live with the 14 hanging back 4" behind your optic. Some find it ok to use it like this, I at times find it awkward.

As for the D-760. Good long range optic and lot's of units out there with many happy customers, but of course it's a dedicated NV optic and you have to point your gun at everything you want to look at.

As for lasers, LDI has now released the civilian Class 1 IR lasers you can see here in the DBAL I2, OTAL and ITAL line. http://www.tnvc.com/shop/category/laser-systems/

In closing, it really comes down to the range you want to look at shoot at. The PVS-14's of course are the most versatile that you can weapon mount, head mount and hand hold easy enough. You can also use a PVS behind a EO Tech like optic with a 3x magnifier and have very good medium range results as well. In your case the DR works well with its 4x mode. Hope this helps.


Vic

 

[One-Eyed Jack]

Re: Newbie Qs: D760 or PVS14+SpecterDR?

Thanks Vic. I already have a Class IIIb 535nm laser that I would like to use somehow as an illuminator, but I don't know how well the shorter wavelength would work. If I had a NV optic I could test it myself, but everything I learn about NV is through reading or a vicarious experience such as yours. I know there are a lot of small IR illuminators out there too.

I just finished reading your review of the PVS14 and early ELCAN SpecterDR. I dunno if the NV illumination of the ELCAN has been reduced or not. I'd like to look through the combination myself.