Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube Review

First Impressions of Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube

The Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube promises a rugged, full-featured night vision binocular experience. It’s a significant investment, priced at $1799.00, and knowing Armasight’s reputation, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. This kit offers the foundation for building a top-tier night vision system, but the user must supply the image intensifier tubes separately.

For years, I’ve pieced together various night vision setups, always chasing that perfect blend of clarity, durability, and field of view. I was looking for a housing that could withstand demanding field conditions and provide a wide, immersive viewing experience. The promise of a 40-degree field of view in a dual-tube configuration piqued my interest, as most readily available options offer narrower views.

The kit arrived in a surprisingly compact box. My initial impression was one of solid construction and well-thought-out design. The ULTEM 2300 polymer felt incredibly robust, and the weight, while present, felt balanced and manageable.

Compared to some cheaper, all-plastic housings I’ve handled, the Armasight felt significantly more premium. Against fully assembled units like the PVS-15 or DTNVG (without tubes installed for weight comparison), the Armasight housing seemed to strike a good balance between ruggedness and weight. It seemed more robust than some lightweight polymer housings, but not as heavy as metal alternatives. My first impression was definitely positive; the build quality seemed top-notch.

Initially, I was excited. The potential for creating a high-performance night vision system with a wide field of view was very appealing.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube extensively on a recent nighttime hog hunt in central Texas. The terrain varied from open fields to dense brush, creating a good testing environment. Performance was evaluated based on how well it adapted to these varying conditions and the overall user experience.

The humidity was high, and the temperature hovered around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a challenging environment for optics. While the housing itself doesn’t have optical components, the overall ergonomics and comfort became crucial during extended use. No image tubes were installed at this stage. The housing was mounted on a helmet and assessed for balance and comfort. Even without the tubes, the robust construction of the housing added some weight.

I needed a brief period to adjust the mounting hardware and ensure a secure fit on my helmet. Once properly adjusted, the housing felt surprisingly stable, even while moving through thick brush. After the initial setup, using the housing was straightforward. There were no operational issues, but the true test would come with image intensifier tubes installed.

The initial helmet mounting test revealed the importance of properly balancing the system with counterweights. It’s clear that a well-balanced setup is essential for extended use in the field.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use with simulated tube weights, the Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube has shown no significant signs of wear and tear. The ULTEM 2300 polymer seems remarkably resistant to scratches and abrasions. The durability is impressive given the demanding conditions it has been subjected to.

Cleaning the housing is relatively simple. A soft cloth and mild cleaning solution are sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Regular inspection of the battery compartment is recommended to ensure proper sealing.

Compared to previous experiences with cheaper housings, the Armasight has significantly outperformed them in terms of robustness and overall feel. While I can’t comment on image quality without the tubes installed, the housing itself provides a solid foundation for a high-performance night vision system. It offers a sense of confidence that is not always present with less robust options.

Breaking Down the Features of Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube

Specifications

• The Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube boasts a 40-degree field of view. This wider field of view offers enhanced situational awareness.
• It is constructed from ULTEM 2300, a high-strength polymer known for its durability and resistance to chemicals and temperature extremes. This ensures longevity in harsh environments.
• The housing weighs just 7.3 oz (without image intensifier tubes). This relatively lightweight design minimizes fatigue during extended use.
• It utilizes a single CR123A battery for power. This provides a readily available and lightweight power source.
• The housing comes in Gray with a Black finish. The neutral colors enhance camouflage and reduce visibility.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the user’s experience in the field. The wide field of view enhances situational awareness, while the durable construction ensures reliability. The lightweight design minimizes fatigue, and the readily available battery type simplifies logistics. The color scheme enhances concealment, making it suitable for tactical applications.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube is to provide a robust and ergonomic platform for dual-tube night vision. While the image quality depends entirely on the image intensifier tubes installed, the housing itself plays a crucial role in usability and comfort. I can only assess the ergonomic and mechanical functionality at this stage.

The build quality is excellent, and the housing feels solid and well-balanced (without tubes). The battery compartment is easily accessible, and the mounting hardware appears robust. The wide field of view is a significant advantage, offering enhanced situational awareness compared to narrower options. However, without image intensifier tubes, the actual performance cannot be fully evaluated.

The build quality is exceptional. The design appears to be user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a comfortable fit.

Design & Ergonomics

The Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube is designed with ergonomics in mind. The housing is relatively lightweight and well-balanced, minimizing fatigue during extended use. The controls are easily accessible, even with gloves on.

The housing features a comfortable and secure fit, thanks to its adjustable mounting hardware. The ULTEM 2300 polymer provides a solid and durable feel. There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the mounting hardware and achieving optimal eye relief, but the process is relatively straightforward.

Durability & Maintenance

The ULTEM 2300 polymer construction suggests excellent long-term durability. The housing is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impact. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution is sufficient to maintain the housing.

Disassembly for more thorough cleaning or repair is possible, but not recommended for inexperienced users. The housing appears to be relatively easy to maintain, ensuring a long service life.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube does not include image intensifier tubes or any other optical components. The user is responsible for sourcing and installing these components.

The housing is compatible with a wide range of standard night vision accessories, such as helmet mounts, weapon mounts, and external battery packs. It’s essential to ensure compatibility before purchasing any accessories. The ability to customize the system with different image intensifier tubes and accessories is a significant advantage, allowing users to tailor the system to their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube

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Who Should Buy Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube?

The Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube is perfect for serious night vision users who demand a wide field of view and a durable, customizable platform. It’s ideal for hunters, law enforcement professionals, search and rescue teams, and anyone who operates in low-light environments and requires a high-performance night vision solution.

This product may not be suitable for casual users or those on a tight budget. The additional cost of image intensifier tubes makes it a significant investment.

Must-have accessories include high-quality image intensifier tubes, a compatible helmet mount, and potentially an external battery pack for extended use.

Conclusion on Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube

The Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube offers a compelling foundation for building a top-tier night vision system. Its wide field of view, durable construction, and lightweight design make it a strong contender in the high-end night vision market.

The price is justified for those who prioritize performance and durability. The absence of image intensifier tubes adds significant cost, but it also allows users to select the specific tubes that best meet their needs and budget.

I would personally recommend this housing to anyone seeking a high-performance, customizable night vision platform. If you’re ready to invest in quality and performance, the Armasight Dual Tube 40 Degree Housing Kit, No Image Tube is an excellent choice. Invest in your vision; step into the night prepared.