TOP 5
TIPS FOR
NIGHT VISION
OWNERS
29th March - The Blog Squad- Night Vision
Have you recently purchased your first pair of NODs? Are you looking for some advice and guidance on how to get the most out of them? If so, then you've come to the right place! In this blog post, we'll be sharing 5 helpful tips that all new night vision owners should take into consideration when getting started.
Whether you're an airsofter or part of the firearm community, these tips will prove invaluable when it comes to optimizing your night vision experience. So without further ado let's dive in and demystify nighttime exploration with your new gear.
Get to Know Your NODs
Before you get kitted up to embark on your nocturnal adventures, it's crucial to get up-close and personal with your NVG's functionality, fit, and focus. The journey starts with making sure your NVG sits comfortably on your head. It's going to take some time to get used to the additional weight, and you want to make sure that they sit snug enough that they don't fall. There are counterweights you can purchase to help balance the weight on your helmet!
Next up, it's the oh-so-important focus adjustment. Here's a good tip: when it's dark, head outside and try to focus your NVGs on a star in the sky and adjust the front and rear focus accordingly.
And next, Always become familiar with your specific model's limitations and recommendations... aka read the manual.
It will take time to learn to walk under your night vision. Try them out before you field them by taking night hikes and get used to them. You are on the right path to unleash your inner night warrior.
Stay Away from The Light
Exposing your night vision to bright lights is like submerging your gaming PC in water - an expensive and sometimes irreparable mistake - not fun.
Here's the bottom line - never, ever switch on your device and take off the protective lens cover if it is daytime or there are bright lights present. Night vision devices function effectively in environments with nearly no ambient lighting - hence strong illumination can result in permanent damage to both internal and external elements.
Also, if you are playing airsoft, make sure to be cautious around other players using flashlights as they should never be aimed directly at the unit for extended periods of time. Irreparable harm can be done to your gear if exposed to excessive light, making it costly and time-consuming for repairs or replacements. Don't be that guy or gal who turned their NODs into a pricey paperweight.
Treat Your NVGs With Care
You've invested a great deal in your NVGs, so ensure you take care of them properly. The lenses are especially fragile and sensitive, covered with a delicate coating that can easily be damaged if not handled correctly or if touched with bare hands.
Keep your lenses clean using an ultra-soft and nonabrasive cloth that is clean and dry. Not sure what to use? Read the manual. You can also purchase night vision cleaning kits with detailed instructions on how to properly get the job done without damaging your optics.
Pro tip: Treat your NVGs with the same care as a firearm.
If you are not going to use the device for a long period of time, remember to turn it off and remove the battery. Never, ever store the unit with the batteries still installed, as they may corrode, causing serious damage to the device.
Don't Take Your Unit Apart
For the love of all things, please resist the temptation to become a DIY superhero. Night vision devices are intricate and extremely delicate pieces of equipment assembled by professionals. If you don't know what you are doing, attempting to disassemble one can be an unwise and costly decision. If maintenance is required send it to the manufacturer or an expert who truly knows how to service it.
Get to Know Your NODs
Let's be honest, aiming down sight and even seeing your BBs is not easy to do with night vision. Instead of blindly shooting in the general direction of your opponents, invest in an aim-assist device, like an IR laser or an NVG-rated red dot. If you are using NVGs for tactical training with firearms, you might even want to invest in riflescopes.
Whatever the case, before hitting the field it's always a good idea to test its comfort level, ease of use, and accuracy in target practice. Trust us, your eyes (and your teammates) will thank you.
Someone wise once said ...
"You miss every shot you can't see."It's me... I'm the wise person
Whether you just got your first pair of NVGs or you're just looking for more information, it's important to familiarize yourself with the functionality and safety protocols before you hit the field. When used properly, night vision can be an incredibly useful tool to have in your kit but don't forget, it is incredibly fragile and can be damaged if exposed to light. So if you have recently purchased an NVG unit or are thinking about making an upgrade, take the time to learn.
Want to try NVGs? Check out our National Event Schedule. We offer NVG rentals at some events so you can try them before you buy!