Night vision devices were first developed during World War II and largely used in Vietnam by US solder. However, a lot has changed since WW2 with great evolution in night vision devices. The devices were only available to solders but it is not the case anymore. Nowadays hunters are using night vision devices to make night hunting easier.
There is a unique world for hunters once the sun goes down. When out hunting at night or camping, you need the best night vision devices. It is pretty difficult seeing at night let alone hunting. So, what night vision devices are suitable for hunting?
It is worth noting that most night vision devices cost a fortune. This is why it makes perfect sense to understand the various types of night vision devices for hunting. Having a basic knowledge of these devices and how they work can help you make an informed choice. There are different categories of night vision devices for hunting.
Night Vision Devices for Hunting
Below, we discuss the main categories of night vision devices
Night Vision Scopes
A scope is a common optical device usually handheld or mounted on the rifle. If you’re into hunting, you’ve probably used a scope. However, if you tend to hunt at night or early morning, then a night vision scope is recommended. Night vision scopes assist viewing in near-dark or complete darkness. They work by amplifying the available light to make the target visible. In fact, most do not offer any magnification but make it possible to see in darkness. Few night vision scopes offer magnification that is low from 1x to 2x and sometimes 4x magnification.
Image enhancement in total darkness relies on the amplification of the existing light. Even in total darkness, there are always bits of light present either from the moon and stars. We also have infrared light that people cannot see with naked eyes. The scopes amplify the available light enabling you to see what happens in the dark.
Night Vision Goggles
Unlike night vision scopes, goggles are handheld or worn over the head. These devices work on the same technology like night vision devices. They are ideal when you’re walking in the dark for long hours. You’ve probably seen solders where night vision goggles when attacking a place at night. These devices give you the advantage of others relying on naked eyes. While you cannot see the images as clear as they appear during the day, the goggles ensure you can maneuver your way around with ease.
This is crucial especially when using night vision goggles for hunting in thick and dark forests. It is worth noting that most wild animals have enhanced night vision. They can see 10 times better than humans at night hence the need for night vision goggles. In general, night vision goggles offer people a better experience of the night. The fact that you wear them over the head makes them convenient and easy to use. You still have your hands free to hold rifles and take down your targets in the dark.
Night Vision Binoculars
We also have night vision binoculars which are just normal binoculars but with enhanced night vision. They feature two eyepieces as opposed to scopes hence comfortable for long period viewing. A night vision binocular is one of the best night vision devices when tracking game at night. It offers enhanced night vision, better view and comfortable use for long periods. Most feature a 1x magnification thus suitable for scanning and scouting.
Thermal Scopes
Lastly, we have thermal scopes which use a different mechanism from night vision scopes. Thermal scopes use a technology called thermal imaging. The thermal imaging technology from the scopes is able to capture heat emitted by objects. These devices basically detect different temperature variations of targets. They then transfer that entire heat-emitting area into a form of an image. This is seen as a red or blue color on your scope.
When hunting, animals emit heat which is easily detected by the scopes. You’ve probably seen thermal scopes in movies detecting persons thick in the forest. Thermal scopes have greatly grown in popularity and have many advantages over night vision scopes. They can perceive the slightest changes in temperature differences and send a signal to the scope.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, night vision devices are a must-have for a successful hunt in the dark. You’re not going to capture a game that sees 10x better than you in the dark. Depending on your specific type of hunt, you can easily choose one of the above night vision devices.
Night vision binoculars are suitable when scanning an area for extended periods. They are excellent for hunters that love to watch nocturnal nature. However, be aware of state regulations on hunting deer and bear using night vision devices. Some states prohibit the use of night vision devices for a certain game. For more details on these kind of hunting devices, you can check out OpticsAddict.com.