The advantages of low-light night vision and infrared thermal imaging night vision in hunting

Imaging principle

Low-light night vision: By amplifying the weak light in the surrounding environment such as starlight and moonlight, the weak light signal is converted into a visible video image using a photomultiplier tube or image intensifier, so that the user can see the object clearly in a low-light environment.

Infrared thermal imaging night vision: Based on the principle that all objects in nature with a temperature higher than absolute zero (-273.15℃) can radiate infrared energy, the infrared thermal imaging night vision converts these infrared thermal radiation into corresponding electrical signals, and then forms a thermal image that can be observed by the naked eye after amplification and video processing.

Applicability for hunting

Observation ability

Low-light-level night vision device: In an environment with a certain amount of natural light, such as a night with bright stars or a night with bright moonlight, it can provide relatively clear, detailed and close-to-natural visual images, which is helpful for hunters to observe the specific form, characteristics and surrounding environment of the prey, and to better judge the type, size and distance of the prey. However, in a completely dark or extremely weak light environment, its imaging effect will be greatly limited, and it may not be able to effectively find the prey.

Infrared thermal imaging night vision device: It does not rely on external light and can work normally in a completely dark environment. It can clearly show the temperature difference between the prey and the surrounding environment. Even if the prey is hidden in a hidden place such as grass, woods or caves, as long as its body temperature is different from the background, it can be easily found. It has a unique advantage in finding hidden prey. However, thermal imaging images are usually displayed in pseudo-color, and the details are not as rich as those of low-light-level night vision devices. Hunters need some time to adapt to and interpret thermal image information.

Environmental adaptability

Low-light-level night vision device: It performs well in a clear night with a wide field of vision and no obstructions. However, in bad weather, such as heavy rain, fog, thick smoke, etc., its imaging effect will be greatly reduced, and even normal observation will not be possible. In addition, in a forest with dense vegetation, if leaves and other objects block most of the light, it will also affect its observation effect.

Infrared thermal imaging night vision device: It has strong adaptability to bad weather and complex environments. Whether in rain, fog, snow and other weather conditions, or in an environment with smoke, dust and other obstructions, it can penetrate these obstacles and find the target. In a dense forest, it can also effectively detect the heat signal of the prey without being affected by vegetation.

Aiming accuracy

Low-light-level night vision device: It is generally equipped with aiming aids such as crosshairs. In the case of sufficient light, it can provide a more accurate aiming reference, which helps hunters to accurately hit the target. However, its aiming accuracy is greatly affected by light conditions and distance. When the light is dark or the distance is far, the aiming accuracy may decrease.

Infrared thermal imaging night vision device: Its aiming accuracy mainly depends on the resolution of thermal imaging and the user's ability to interpret thermal images. Although some thermal imaging night vision devices also have auxiliary aiming functions such as laser cross positioning, it may be difficult to accurately aim at long-distance or small targets due to the relatively limited clarity and details of thermal images. However, thermal imaging can clearly see the temperature distribution center of the target, which is conducive to aiming at the key parts of the prey, thereby increasing the probability of hitting the vital points.

Convenience of use

Low-light night vision device: Usually small in size, light in weight, and relatively simple to operate, some low-light night vision devices also have built-in infrared fill lights to provide auxiliary lighting when light is insufficient. However, it needs to be properly adjusted according to the light conditions, such as adjusting the aperture under different light intensities, adjusting the focal length and magnification at different distance targets, etc.

Infrared thermal imaging night vision device: Generally, the operation is also relatively simple. After turning on the device, you can observe and aim according to the thermal image. Some products also have functions such as automatic adjustment of brightness and contrast to adapt to different ambient temperatures and target temperature differences. However, the price of infrared thermal imaging night vision goggles is relatively high, and they need to be powered by batteries, so the use time is limited. For long-term hunting activities, you may need to carry spare batteries.

Concealment

Low-light night vision goggles: They do not emit light themselves, but when in use, they may be detected by prey due to the reflection of surrounding light, especially when the moonlight is bright or infrared fill light is used, which can easily expose the hunter's position.

Infrared thermal imaging night vision goggles: They do not emit visible light when working, and are relatively concealed during use, making them difficult to be discovered by prey, which helps hunters not to be disturbed when approaching prey.

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