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Night vision clip-on systems: technologies and features - buyer's guide

Aug 10, 2022 | 09:31 pm 396 0
Night vision clip-on systems: technologies and features - buyer's guide

To perform various work, people actively use night optics. It does an excellent job and eliminates the inability of the human eye to see at night. The devices used are successfully combined with clip-on systems. The latter turn even daytime optics into an NV device and allow it to be used for its intended purpose. At the same time, it will not be necessary to reconfigure the equipment or zero the weapon, which will simplify the operation process as much as possible.

Main night vision clip-on scopes characteristics

NVDs from the clip-on category perform satisfactorily in use. Due to their many positive qualities, they are introduced into various industries to perform a particular job. Clip-on systems are most commonly used in combination with scopes. Such optics have become universal and is available not only to the military but also to civilians. The latter use it for hunting at night, which gives many new and incomparable experiences. To understand a little about the nuances of clip-on sights, you need to study their characteristics. This information will be helpful in the process of buying one of the models.

Basic Features:

  • Dimensions. Most of the models produced these days have a minimum size. It simplifies the operation of optics and their transportation and storage at home. Most often, the length of clip-on sights varies between 150-180 mm, and the width and height are 75-100 mm. Sometimes there are also more compact models. At the same time, outdated clip-on sights often have larger dimensions than modern ones.
  • Weight. This characteristic is one of the most important. The convenience of using optics in the field depends on it. It directly depends on the capabilities of the optics. In most cases, clip-on systems weigh about 1 kilogram. The most versatile models have more weight, and simple ones have a minimum.
  • Screen resolution. This characteristic is one of the keys. It shows the capabilities of the display on which the image is displayed. The higher the value of this parameter, the clearer the picture will be, and it will be possible to see all its details.
  • Multiplicity. This parameter indicates the possibility of enlarging the image by a certain number of times. The higher the value, the more distant objects can be seen through the scope. Most commonly, civilians use clip-on sights with magnifications up to 10x. Large values ​​of this parameter are used mainly by the military.
  • Lens diameter. This indicator characterizes the size of the sight lens used to collect light rays. The larger it is, the brighter and better the visible image will become. On sale, you can find models with 25-100 mm diameter. At the same time, average indicators of 45-55 mm will be optimal for most users. In this case, the optics will be practical when working short and medium distances.
  • Exit pupil diameter. This value is calculated. It is defined as the ratio of lens diameter to magnification. Higher values ​​of this parameter will make the sight work as efficiently as possible in conditions of minimal illumination.
  • Removal of the exit pupil. This characteristic indicates the distance between the user's eye and the eyepiece of the sight, at which the maximum available field of view becomes visible. This figure can vary widely. Each user independently determines for himself the best option following personal preferences.
  • Minimum focusing distance. The value of this parameter must be considered when it is required to use sight to observe a closely located object. It shows the distance at which one model can give the user good visibility. At the same time, manufacturers often indicate the maximum value of the focusing distance with an infinity sign.
  • Field of view. This parameter indicates the ability to provide a view of a large area. The higher the value, the wider the area will be inspected. The maximum values ​​are essential when searching for an object of interest on the ground. In such a situation, it is possible to quickly review the surrounding area and find the thing of interest.
  • Correction of diopters. People with good and bad eyesight exploit Clip-on. In the second case, the range of diopter correction will be necessary for users. It shows deviations from the zero value (100% vision) in one direction and the other, allowing you to compensate for eye problems. As a result, even a person with myopia or hyperopia sees well and does not experience discomfort during the operation of the optics.
  • Battery life. Modern optics cannot work without an energy source. Most often, they are classic batteries or Li-ion batteries. Each model uses its resource differently. Because of this, the battery life changes. The larger it is, the longer you can operate the optics without recharging or replacing batteries. In this regard, most prefer to buy models with a maximum energy supply and minimum consumption.
  • They are operating temperature range. Its limit values are usually 40-50°C below zero and 50-60°C above zero. Sometimes there are also extended temperature ranges, making it possible to use the sight in extreme conditions. For the sight to be used in almost any region, you must buy models with the most comprehensive possible temperature range.
  • Housing material. This structural element protects internal parts from various influences. Therefore, it must be made of durable materials with a relatively low weight. All this will increase the reliability of the optics and reduce the likelihood of damage.
  • The level of protection. Clip-on models are operated outdoors. Therefore, devices are exposed to environmental factors that harm most structural elements. To prevent this, manufacturers pay attention to such a parameter as protection (from water, ultraviolet radiation, mechanical stress, etc.). The higher its level, the more reliable and durable the optics will become.
  • Cost. For many buyers, the most crucial feature of scopes is price. It depends on many factors and varies widely. Thanks to this, in each price segment, there are many models suitable for people with different financial capabilities.
  • Possibility of shooting. Some modern models allow the user to shoot videos and take pictures. Thanks to this, it is possible to capture important moments of an event (for example, hunting). All created media files are saved to a memory card with a separate slot. Also, real-time video transmission becomes available if the device has a Wi-Fi module.
  • GPS. GPS sensors complement many sights produced today. Their presence allows you to track the user's location and find him in case of unforeseen situations. This characteristic is beneficial for hunters, travelers, and lovers of wildlife. It allows you to control the movement of people and help them with various problems (for example, leaving a familiar path).
  • Distance measurement. Some expensive models are supplemented with rangefinders. These devices make it possible to measure the distance to objects and use this information for more accurate aiming. Also, the presence of a rangefinder will allow you to determine the approximate height or length of various obstacles (hill, pond, etc.).
  • Reticle pattern. Another critical component of any scope is the reticle. It can be different, ranging from a simple dot in the center to dozens of lines. A particular option is selected based on the needs of the user. In all cases, using the reticle allows for better aiming and adjustments as environmental conditions change. For night models, points and lines must be highlighted. Only in this case will they be visible in the dark.
  • Durability. Almost all modern clip-on models work correctly for an extended period. This became possible due to control at each production stage and repeated testing for compliance with various parameters. Also, the durability is affected by the excellent quality of the components used in the production (made from modern materials with increased strength indicators).

Benefits of night vision clip-on scopes

NV clip-on sights have become popular not only due to the clever work of marketers. These devices have many advantages that distinguish them from other types of optics. At the same time, they have practically no drawbacks, which also brings a lot of points in their favor.
Main advantages:
  • No problems with fastening. Models related to the clip-on type are as easy as possible to install on any weapon. This work can be easily performed not only by an experienced shooter but also by a beginner. During the installation process, a minimum of simple steps are completed, which take only a few minutes of free time. All this practically eliminates the possibility of problems during the installation and dismantling of the device.
  • Versatility. Models of this type can be attached to daytime optics. Thanks to this versatility, quickly turning a standard scope into an NVD is possible. This process takes a minimum of time and requires a small amount of effort from the application user. The reverse process is similar. In a matter of seconds, night optics turns into daylight. In both cases, the sight will work effectively and do its job well.
  • Speed ​​of preparation. Sights from the clip-on series are attached to pre-sighted daytime optics. With the onset of the morning, the device is quickly removed, and the shooter has the opportunity to open fire to kill immediately. Thanks to this, the user does not need to re-prepare the weapon and spend a lot of time on this procedure.
  • Easy operation. The ease of installation and adjustment and the absence of the need to take special care of the sight make its operation as simple as possible. Thanks to this advantage, the user eliminates unnecessary work, stealing time and effort.
  • Lightness and minimal dimensions. These qualities are available to almost all clip-on NVDs. Today's models weigh about 1 kilogram, which is a good indicator compared to other sights. They are also small, making it easy to store, carry and operate the optics. Lightness and minimal dimensions positively affect shooting accuracy and user comfort.
  • Minimum power consumption. Modern night clip-on sights have 5-6 hours of battery life. This is achieved at the expense of low energy costs, typical for most models. The specified period will be sufficient for many users. However, if necessary, the design can be supplemented with an external energy source, which prolongs the continuous operation of the optics by up to 2 days.
Clip-on scopes also have a few disadvantages. They must be considered to minimize all negative aspects of using these optics. The main disadvantage is the appearance of optical distortions. They occur mainly in slightly outdated models and modern devices from the budget price segment. The negative effect of such distortions is to degrade the quality of the image, which slightly complicates the operation of the optics. Another significant disadvantage is the high cost. It is typical for most truly high-quality models that deserve your attention. This disadvantage slightly reduces the popularity of clip-on and makes them available only to people with suitable financial means.

Clip-on systems for night vision devices

NVDs have been developed for a long time. They were mounted on various weapons and used for shooting in low-light conditions. The main disadvantage of this design was that it could only be used at night. In this regard, for daytime operations, it was necessary to use other weapons that had to be carried with you. This made it challenging to move around and forced users to spend a lot of extra effort. An alternative to this was the possibility of replacing the daytime sight with a night one. However, in this case, it was necessary to re-sight the weapon and spend quite a lot of time on it.
The solution to this problem was the manufacture of clip-on night vision systems. They are attached to the lens of daytime optics. This is done in two ways. One of them involves the use of a special adapter, and the other - is installed on a bar. In both cases, it is possible to quickly reconfigure the sight and turn it from day to night and vice versa. Modern clip-on models can even be mounted on the eyepiece of a day device. So the system under consideration becomes as versatile as possible and is suitable for sights, monoculars, and binoculars. At the same time, daytime models mustn't have a vast multiplicity factor. In this case, installing clip-on systems would be impractical since an additional structural element will degrade the image quality when using devices at maximum magnification.
Thermal clip-on systems deserve special attention. They are suitable for most optics models and turn them into a full-fledged thermal imager with all its advantages. After such a transformation, the efficiency of binoculars or monoculars is maintained. In the case of using scopes, the aiming point is not lost, and the user can continue to apply the reticle to improve shooting accuracy and make various corrections. With their help, it will be possible to obtain a thermal image of the area and find all living creatures.
In most cases, a thermal clip-on is slightly different from classic thermal cameras. They have more modest characteristics and have less power of sensors that capture heat. All this slightly limits the user's capabilities but allows you to perform almost any task. An essential feature of a thermal clip-on is the long eye relief. This makes it possible to maintain the same firing position, despite an additional element in the design.

Night vision clip-on systems - F.A.Q.

  • How do clip-on systems work?
Most models work on the same principle as classic NVDs. Their lens captures the light coming from various objects. The collected rays are subjected to various manipulations. As a result, the brightness increases, and the image becomes lighter. The resulting image is displayed on a particular display that the user sees.
  • Why are clip-ons always expensive?
The high price of most models is due to their broad functionality and excellent performance. Also, the cost is affected by modern technologies and expensive high-quality materials in producing devices.
  • Is it legal to use overhead systems?
Specifically, there are no restrictions on the use of clip-on models. At the same time, there is a ban on using night vision devices in some regions. It is always worth remembering this since the user will face a hefty fine in case of fixing violations.
  • Can people with vision problems use a clip-on?
Yes, nearsighted and farsighted users can use this lens without needing glasses or contact lenses. Most models provide diopter correction, allowing you to adapt the device to each person's vision.
  • Will there be problems with the organs of vision in case of prolonged use of optics?
No. According to numerous studies, even prolonged use of optical sights does not severely affect the eyes. However, before using the devices, you must read the instructions, which may indicate certain limitations specific only to a particular model.
  • Which manufacturers are the most reliable?
The best in most indicators are well-known brands. Their products are always of good quality, reliability, and durability. In addition, most of these manufacturers provide a long-term product warranty and help buyers resolve any issues. All this once again proves their reliability and attentive attitude to customers.
  • How do we increase the service life of optics?
Most of the manufactured models work correctly for an extended period. To further increase their service life, you need to regularly care for the optics and use them only following the rules specified in the instructions.
  • Is it better to buy expensive or cheap models?
You should purchase budget models and devices from the middle price category for occasional use and simple tasks. If you need the optics to have unique characteristics and functions and also work correctly in extreme conditions, then it is better to opt for expensive models.
  • Can a clip-on be used in bad weather?
Only possible if the device has a high level of protection. To do this, it must have sealed housing that will not allow snowflakes, raindrops, and water in the air during fog to get inside. It is also essential that the optics have a wide operating temperature range. In this case, it will withstand extreme cold and heat.
  • Should hunting enthusiasts use overhead systems?
Most of the manufactured devices are suitable for hunting. With their help, you can successfully track down and shoot prey at any time of the day. Optics will be effective even in conditions of a severe shortage of natural or artificial light. It will enable the hunter to see the surrounding area and find the animals of interest.
  • Are clip-ons suitable for beginners?
Any optic in the clip-on category is easy to use and eliminates the need for lengthy instruction manuals. In addition, it does not require special care and is as easy to install as possible. This makes it ideal for novice users who have never used any NVDs.
  • How to properly care for optics?
Devices of this type require the same care as any other optics. During this process, you must use substances intended for cleaning and materials that do not leave any defects on the body and lenses. Only in this case will the care be of high quality and safe for each component.
Clip-on systems are the ideal solution for any NV fixtures. These attachments turn the devices into versatile optics used for dozens of jobs. It will help you make the right choice, learn how to use clip-on systems effectively, and discover all their possibilities. Please read all available information carefully before making a purchase.

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