Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens Review

Let’s Dive into Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens

The Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens promises to significantly extend the reach of your night vision, converting your standard PVS-14 monocular into a long-range observation tool. Armasight, known for their night vision and thermal optics, aims to deliver enhanced capability to military, law enforcement, and civilian users alike with this afocal lens. At a price point of $279, it sits in a sweet spot for those looking to upgrade their existing night vision setup without breaking the bank.

I was looking for a way to extend the effective range of my PVS-14 without investing in a dedicated long-range night vision device. The promise of easy attachment and significant magnification increase caught my attention.

Unboxing the Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel and robust construction. The lens is weighty, indicating the use of quality glass, and the black finish is clean and professional. My initial impression was of a well-made piece of kit.

I considered other options like dedicated 3x magnifiers, but ultimately chose the Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens for its increased magnification potential. I was excited to see how much farther I could reach into the darkness. My first impression was optimistic, hoping to be surprised by the long-range viewing capabilities.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens in a rural environment, scanning open fields and wooded areas. The ambient light was minimal, a typical moonless night. The initial experience was a mixed bag.

The magnification was immediately apparent, bringing distant objects much closer. However, I quickly noticed the light-sucking effect, and the image was noticeably darker than without the lens attached. It definitely requires sufficient ambient light or IR illumination to be truly effective.

There was a bit of a learning curve involved, as the increased magnification also amplified any slight movements, making it harder to maintain a steady image. After some adjustments and practice, I was able to compensate for this. Vignetting around the edges of the image was also immediately apparent, a bit distracting at first.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens in various conditions, including damp and dusty environments, it has held up reasonably well. The lens body still looks new.

I haven’t observed any significant wear and tear, although the rubber ocular and objective covers are showing some minor scuff marks from regular use. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a lens cloth removes any smudges or dust.

Compared to my standard PVS-14 without magnification, the Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens offers a significant increase in range, but at the cost of brightness and field of view. It is a trade-off that can be beneficial in the right circumstances, but not ideal for all situations. The improved image quality in areas with ambient light made it worth the compromise.

Breaking Down the Features of Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens

Specifications

The Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens boasts a 6x magnification, significantly extending the reach of a standard night vision monocular. Its field of view is 8 degrees, which is narrow compared to the standard PVS-14, but necessary to achieve the high magnification.

The lens measures 2.85 inches in length, 2.05 inches in width, and weighs in at 6.5 oz. The added weight is noticeable when mounted. Armasight states that the lens is rated to IP67 water resistance level, meaning it can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This rating ensures reliable performance in inclement weather.

These specifications impact the overall experience because they dictate the range, field of view, and weight of the night vision setup. The 6x magnification allows for long-range observation, but the narrow field of view requires more scanning to cover the same area.

Performance & Functionality

The Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens excels at extending the range of your PVS-14, allowing you to identify targets at greater distances. However, the light loss and vignetting are noticeable drawbacks.

The lens performs best in environments with some ambient light or with supplemental IR illumination. Without adequate light, the image becomes too dark to be useful.

The biggest strengths are the increased magnification and ease of attachment. Weaknesses include the light loss, vignetting, and increased weight on the front of the PVS-14. It meets expectations for magnification, but falls short in terms of overall image quality.

Design & Ergonomics

The Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens has a robust and durable build, using high-quality materials that inspire confidence. The added weight is noticeable.

The lens is easy to attach and remove from the PVS-14. There is no significant learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens is built to last, with a rugged housing and high-quality optics. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a lens cloth and proper storage when not in use. Repair, if ever needed, would likely require sending it back to Armasight or a qualified optics technician.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens comes with rubber ocular and objective covers to protect the lens when not in use, as well as a drawstring pouch for storage. There are no other customization options available directly for the lens itself.

The lens is designed to be compatible with most standard PVS-14 units and should work with various helmet mounting systems. Compatibility with IR illuminators, such as the Armasight IR-XLR line, can significantly enhance performance in low-light conditions.

Pros and Cons of Armasight PVS-14 6x Lens