Let me introduce you to one of the best night vision monocular in terms of price-performance ratio. The PVS-14 3AW2 monocular has been repeatedly used in combat conditions and has earned the most favorable characteristics. The fact that the US Army ordered the monocular design for its tactical purposes will favor the quality. But the PVS-14 has become a favorite not only at home but around the world, working in the most challenging weather conditions. Considering its Gen3 image intensifier package and a very affordable price for this generation, less than $3,500, it's worth taking a closer look at this monocular.

Advantages of the night vision monocular PVS-14 3AW2

Generation

To begin with, Gen3 hardware is the standard for use by the US military. This is the level you need to aim for if you want to take full advantage of your gear. PVS-14 is supplied in several configurations. You can select Gen2+ or Gen3. These generations are characterized by the highest image quality and sporadic dots in zone 1. This is the cleanest and sharpest image that you can find today for the money. Gen2+ features a resolution of 64l/mm, and for Gen3-72l/mm. In practice, this means that the user will notice the presence of a person at a distance of about 1000m. These data are very conditional and depend on the transparency of the atmosphere, the degree of illumination, altitude above sea level, and other factors. At a distance of 500m, it will be possible to determine the gender and age of a person and identify him. This is the distance at which it is possible to decide on the use of weapons.

Сovert surveillance

Note that Gen3 will work without an IR flashlight if there are at least a few stars in the sky. This will be enough for covert surveillance and mission without fear of revealing their location. For Gen2+, the same circuit works, but a little more light is needed.

White phosphor

Using a white phosphor in the Gen3 image intensifier tube gives comfort when observing for a long time. Eyes do not get tired and do not strain. The image features good contrast, allowing you to find a potential target accurately and quickly. Most intelligence agencies, the army, and hunters prefer white phosphor to green. The PVS-14 3AW2 monocular is equipped with a white phosphor, level 2, which gives an undoubted advantage.

Increase

The PVS-14 can be equipped with 3x and 5x magnifications of your choice. This indicates work at close and medium distances, respectively. We appreciate when we choose and always give preference to narrowly profiled equipment over universal equipment.

The function of automatic cutting off of bright light - an auto strobing

This is a definite fat plus, which not all night vision devices can boast of. This system allows you to protect the device from exposure and damage instantly. It will be helpful when working in urban environments, along roads, near illuminated windows of houses. It is not always possible to react to a sudden bright light quickly, Auto Strobe will do everything for you, and you will calmly carry out your mission without being distracted by interference.

Manual adjustment of the light level

An undoubted advantage adds comfort and improves image quality depending on specific conditions.

Lots of use cases

Since the PVS-14 is a monocular, there are several usage scenarios. The most obvious is as a spyglass for observation. For freedom of hands, it can be mounted on a helmet using a bracket or a unique head mount. Both mounting options are included with the monocular. When used on a helmet, it is possible to conduct aimed fire at night with a weapon equipped with a daylight scope. It can also be attached in front of the camera and video from the scene.

Suitable for people with visual impairments

If you have a slight degree of farsightedness or nearsightedness, then the monocular will allow you to conduct aimed shooting and observation without the use of lenses or glasses. Diopter adjustment is possible from -6 to +4 inclusive.

Line of sight

An angle of 40 degrees is provided by a 26 mm lens; F / 1.2. It is great for close to medium-range shooting. This is a definite plus, which will give a good viewing area.

Quite a long time of work without recharging

The night vision monocular can operate for 50 hours at 20 degrees C. The time may vary depending on the temperature of the environment. Severe frost will shorten the time of use. If you have a multi-day event in extreme temperatures, it is worth considering an additional set of batteries.

This is one of the most economical equipment options. It can work from one AA alkaline battery for more than two days. In addition, one battery will not increase the device's overall weight, which will provide additional convenience during operation.

Most comprehensive operating temperature range

The operating temperature range from -60°F to 185°F will cover most of our planet. And storage temperatures from -60°F to 185°F are excellent. This allows you to use the PVS-14 in extremely adverse temperature conditions anywhere in the world, with complete confidence in its stable operation.

Compact size and lightweight

With dimensions of 4.5 x 2.5 x 2.7 inches and a lightweight 12.4 ounces, it will easily fit into your backpack or small carry bag. When worn on a helmet, the weight will not cause significant inconvenience.

Conforms to military 810G standards

This standard applies to equipment used by the US Department of Defense. All devices undergo strict laboratory tests for a considerable number of adverse effects. Among them: freezing, icing, temperature shock; blast wave; ballistic, pyrotechnic, mechanical impact; dirt; sand; dust; rain; tightness; high and low pressure; exposure to acid, salt, mold. In short, something more reliable, durable, and durable will have to be looked for well.

Built-in infrared illuminator with the ability to turn off

This is a definite plus. It offers discreet observation on bright nights and excellent illumination on nights.

Excellent ergonomics, convenient control, and presence of indicators

The monocular fits comfortably in hand has clear and simple controls. The case is waterproof, non-glare, has a non-slippery surface. Indicators will warn about battery replacement, flashlight on, too bright light. There are many additional accessories included in the kit, allowing you to implement various usage scenarios.

Flaws

We did not notice the manufacturer's mention of the possibility of attaching the AGM PVS-14 3AW2 night vision monocular to a weapon. There is no record of using the PVS-14 as a night vision scope or clip-on system before an optical day sight. Many users request this feature, and it would be convenient to use a compact and lightweight monocular for this purpose. Considering the 810G standard, the monocular must withstand the weapon's recoil. But, to our great regret, we cannot confirm this information.

Export and shipping restrictions

All Gen3 optics are prohibited from exporting outside the US without a license. It is almost impossible to go hunting abroad with such equipment. In addition, the Gen3 generation has been banned from sale to non-American citizens. When using for hunting, it is worth asking the state's laws where you intend to use it. Different types of games have their own rules and restrictions. There are differences in state laws regarding the transportation of Gen3 devices on airplanes and trains. If you are planning a trip, you should clarify this question.

The night vision monocular AGM PVS-14 3AW2 fully deserves our approval. This is compact and reliable equipment with a wide range of capabilities, durable and easy to operate, fully justifies its money. We recommend it for hunting, security, tactical purposes. Once you try these optics, you will be hard-pressed to agree with something less technologically and advanced.