Armasight Vulcan 4.5x108mm Bravo Gen 3 IIT Night Vision Rifle Scope Review

Let’s Dive into Armasight Vulcan 4.5x108mm Bravo Gen 3 IIT Night Vision Rifle Scope

The Armasight Vulcan 4.5x108mm Bravo Gen 3 IIT Night Vision Rifle Scope is Armasight’s offering for those stepping into the world of serious night vision shooting. It promises a blend of Gen 3 technology, a robust build, and user-friendly features, all at a price point that, while significant, is meant to be more accessible than top-tier options. This scope immediately caught my eye as a potential upgrade from my older Gen 2 unit, offering a crisper image and better low-light performance without breaking the bank.

For years, I’ve relied on night vision for predator control on my ranch, but my aging Gen 2 scope was starting to show its limitations. I needed something that could provide better clarity and range in truly dark conditions, allowing me to accurately identify and engage targets at greater distances. The promise of a Gen 3 IIT with a white phosphor display was particularly appealing, aiming to improve target recognition and reduce eye fatigue during extended use.

The Armasight Vulcan arrived securely packaged. My initial impression was positive. The scope felt solid and well-built. The weight (2.4 lbs) was noticeable but reassuring, suggesting a robust construction. I immediately appreciated the included quick-release Picatinny mount, a feature my old scope lacked.

Compared to other entry-level Gen 3 scopes I considered, such as the ATN MARS-LT 320, the Armasight Vulcan seemed to offer a better balance of image quality, features, and price. While the ATN had some appealing digital features, I prioritized the clarity and reliability of a dedicated Gen 3 IIT. Another contender was the Bering Optics Hogster Stimulus, known for its compact size, but I ultimately opted for the Vulcan’s larger objective lens and potentially better light gathering capabilities.

I was excited but cautiously optimistic. Night vision is an expensive game. I knew that even a “Bravo” grade Gen 3 tube might have imperfections or limitations compared to higher-end options, but I hoped the Armasight Vulcan would deliver a significant improvement over my old setup. I wanted it to prove its value in the field.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Armasight Vulcan 4.5x108mm Bravo Gen 3 IIT Night Vision Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test took place on my ranch in central Texas during a new moon, providing minimal ambient light. Mounted on my AR-15, the Armasight Vulcan was easy to zero. The adjustments were tactile and precise. The image through the scope was immediately impressive. The white phosphor display offered a stark contrast to the green hues of my old Gen 2 scope.

The increased clarity and resolution were noticeable. Even in near-total darkness, I could clearly identify coyotes at distances of up to 200 yards. The Armasight Vulcan’s performance in damp conditions was notable. A light drizzle didn’t seem to affect the image quality or the scope’s operation, which is a plus considering unpredictable weather.

The only initial issue was the learning curve with the focusing system. Fine-tuning the objective lens and diopter took some time to get right, but once dialed in, the image was sharp and clear.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Armasight Vulcan has proven to be a reliable performer. It holds zero consistently, even after hundreds of rounds fired. The scope shows minimal signs of wear and tear, a testament to its robust construction.

Cleaning is relatively straightforward, requiring only a lens cleaning cloth and a soft brush to remove dust and debris. Compared to my previous night vision scope, the Armasight Vulcan’s improved image quality and ease of use have made nighttime hunting significantly more effective and enjoyable. I can acquire targets faster, identify them more accurately, and make ethical shots with confidence.

Breaking Down the Features of Armasight Vulcan 4.5x108mm Bravo Gen 3 IIT Night Vision Rifle Scope

Specifications

• Magnification: 4.5x, providing a good balance of field of view and target identification at reasonable distances. This fixed magnification is a trade-off. It offers simplicity but lacks the versatility of variable magnification scopes.
• Objective Lens Diameter: 108mm, a large aperture that gathers ample light for improved low-light performance. This larger lens size helps in the darkest conditions to gather every bit of available light for the Image Intensifier Tube (IIT).
• Night Vision Generation: Gen 3, offering a significant upgrade in image quality, resolution, and low-light sensitivity compared to Gen 2. This is the core of the scope’s performance.
• Image Intensifier Tube: Bravo, indicating an entry-level Gen 3 tube with a minimum FOM (Figure of Merit) of 1400. Bravo designation indicates that imperfections in the tube are more acceptable and a buyer should inspect the image to ensure it meets their standards.
• Image Intensifier Color: White Phosphor, producing a black and white image that some users find more natural and less fatiguing than traditional green phosphor. This allows for a more detailed look at the image you are seeing and can allow the user to spend more time behind the optic with less strain.
• System/Lens Resolution: 64 – 72 lp/mm, indicating the level of detail the scope can resolve. This is above average, and essential for identifying targets at longer distances.
• Field of View: 9 degrees, providing a reasonably wide viewing area for target acquisition. This relatively narrow field of view requires more scanning compared to wider FOV optics.
• Battery Type: AA Alkaline, CR123A, offering flexibility in power source. I like the ability to use either battery type, increasing your chances of finding power in a pinch.
• Battery Life: 50 hours, providing ample runtime on a single battery. This long runtime is a huge advantage during multi-day hunts.
• Weight: 2.4 lb (1.1 kg), making it relatively heavy compared to standard daytime optics. The weight is noticeable but manageable on a well-balanced rifle.
• Length: 11.7 in, adding a considerable length to your rifle. The user should consider the length to ensure they have adequate rail space and that it does not cause an issue with shouldering the rifle.
• Water Resistance Level: IP67, meaning it’s dust-tight and can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This offers peace of mind in adverse weather conditions.
• Mount Type: Picatinny, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of rifles. The Quick Release is a nice feature allowing the user to change out the optic for other needs.
• Reticle: Crosshair, a simple and effective aiming point. It’s easy to use and doesn’t obscure the target.
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA, allowing for precise zeroing adjustments. This is an acceptable adjustment click value for this type of optic.
• Diopter Adjustment Range: -4 – 4 dpt, accommodating users with varying eyesight. Having this broad range is important for shooters who wear corrective lenses.

Performance & Functionality

The Armasight Vulcan 4.5x108mm performs admirably within its intended role. It provides a clear and bright night vision image, allowing for accurate target identification and engagement in low-light conditions. The image quality, while not perfect due to the “Bravo” grade tube, is significantly better than Gen 2 options.

The scope’s main strength lies in its light-gathering capability. The large objective lens and Gen 3 IIT work together to amplify even the faintest ambient light, allowing for clear visibility in near-total darkness. Its main weakness is the fixed magnification. It limits its versatility for closer-range engagements or longer-range precision shots.

It meets my expectations for an entry-level Gen 3 night vision scope, delivering a substantial improvement in performance over older technology. The scope delivers a high-quality image at an acceptable price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The Armasight Vulcan is built like a tank. The materials feel durable and the overall construction is robust. The weight, while noticeable, adds to the feeling of quality. The scope is relatively user-friendly, although the focusing system takes some practice to master. The illuminated reticle is easy to see and adjust, and the quick-release mount is a welcome addition.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Armasight Vulcan is built to last. It has withstood rough handling in the field. It shows no signs of damage or degradation. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens and housing.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Armasight Vulcan comes with a wireless remote control, allowing for convenient activation of the scope and IR illuminator. It also includes a detachable long-range infrared illuminator. This greatly increases the range and clarity in total darkness.

The scope is compatible with standard Picatinny rail accessories, allowing for the attachment of lasers, illuminators, and other tactical devices. It also is compatible with aftermarket lens filters and covers. These can improve image quality or protect the lens from damage.

Pros and Cons of Armasight Vulcan 4.5x108mm Bravo Gen 3 IIT Night Vision Rifle Scope

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Armasight Vulcan 4.5x108mm Bravo Gen 3 IIT Night Vision Rifle Scope?

• Perfect for: Predator hunters, varmint hunters, ranchers dealing with nighttime pests, and tactical shooters who need reliable night vision capabilities. This scope is best suited for users who need to identify targets at moderate distances in very low-light conditions.
• Who should skip this product? Those requiring variable magnification, extreme long-range capabilities, or pristine image quality without any imperfections. People on a very tight budget might find more affordable (though less capable) options.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality rechargeable battery, a lens cleaning kit, and potentially an upgraded IR illuminator for extended range.

Conclusion on Armasight Vulcan 4.5x108mm Bravo Gen 3 IIT Night Vision Rifle Scope

The Armasight Vulcan 4.5x108mm Bravo Gen 3 IIT Night Vision Rifle Scope is a solid entry point into the world of Gen 3 night vision. It offers a significant performance upgrade over older technologies at a relatively accessible price point. While the “Bravo” grade tube may have minor imperfections and the fixed magnification limits its versatility, the scope delivers excellent low-light performance, a durable build, and user-friendly features.

The price is justified for those who need reliable night vision capabilities for hunting, pest control, or tactical applications. The value proposition is clear. It provides a significant performance boost over Gen 2.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade to Gen 3 night vision without breaking the bank. If you’re ready to step into the darkness and gain a significant advantage in low-light conditions, the Armasight Vulcan is a worthy investment!