Let’s Dive into US Night Vision Transfer Arm for PVS-14 / 6015 NightVision Devices
The US Night Vision Transfer Arm for PVS-14 / 6015 NightVision Devices aims to provide hands-free operation for your night vision monocular. This seemingly simple accessory promises to bridge the gap between holding your expensive night vision device and securely mounting it for extended use. US Night Vision intends for this arm to be a vital component for every PVS-14 and 6015 user.
My journey with night vision began during my time in the military, where hands-free operation was crucial for situational awareness. After transitioning to civilian life, I continued to utilize night vision for hunting and observation, constantly seeking reliable mounting solutions. The promise of a lightweight and compatible transfer arm drew me to this particular product.
Upon unboxing, my initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The lightweight polymer construction seemed adequate, but I immediately questioned its long-term durability. Its sleek, black finish was standard for night vision accessories.
Several alternatives exist in the market, including those made from aluminum or reinforced polymers. I opted for the US Night Vision Transfer Arm due to its apparent compatibility as a standard part and its lower price point. Time would tell if this was the right choice.
My initial excitement was tempered by the plastic construction. I hoped that its performance would outweigh my concerns about its robustness.
Real-World Testing: Putting US Night Vision Transfer Arm for PVS-14 / 6015 NightVision Devices to the Test
First Use Experience
My first trial occurred during a nighttime hog hunt on a friend’s ranch in Texas. I mounted my PVS-14 to the US Night Vision Transfer Arm, attaching it to my Rhino II mount on my helmet. The initial connection felt secure, but the plastic construction had me constantly checking to ensure it stayed in place.
The Texas night brought a mix of dry and dusty conditions, along with some brief periods of light rain. The Transfer Arm held up reasonably well to the elements, although I worried about the dust potentially wearing down the joints. I noted immediately that the arm seemed to wiggle ever so slightly, as if it were not quite fully seated in the Rhino II.
The arm provided adequate articulation for adjusting the PVS-14. However, the plastic’s flex made precise adjustments slightly challenging. I found myself wishing for a more rigid connection.
After about an hour of use, the connection to the Rhino II loosened noticeably. This required constant readjustment and diminished my confidence in the system. This was not the “hands-free” experience I was hoping for.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of intermittent use, primarily for nocturnal wildlife observation, the US Night Vision Transfer Arm showed signs of wear. The plastic near the Rhino II mount exhibited hairline cracks. This confirmed my initial concerns about the material’s durability.
Cleaning the arm was straightforward, requiring only a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. However, the plastic felt increasingly brittle over time, raising concerns about its longevity. I found myself being extra cautious when handling it.
Compared to my previous experiences with metal mounting solutions, the US Night Vision Transfer Arm falls short. The plastic construction significantly impacts its reliability and overall user experience. The metal mounts were far more secure and stable.
Breaking Down the Features of US Night Vision Transfer Arm for PVS-14 / 6015 NightVision Devices
Specifications
- The US Night Vision Transfer Arm is designed specifically for the PVS-14 and 6015 night vision devices. Its primary function is to enable hands-free mounting of these devices.
- It is constructed from black polymer, which keeps the weight down but raises concerns about durability. The color is a standard matte black, common to most night vision accessories.
- The Transfer Arm interfaces with standard Rhino II mounts. It provides a limited range of articulation for positioning the night vision device.
- The arm weighs approximately 1.5 ounces. This lightweight design is intended to minimize strain on the user’s neck, which is a crucial consideration during prolonged use.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the usability and reliability of the night vision system. A lightweight, yet durable, transfer arm is essential for comfortable and effective hands-free operation. The plastic construction, unfortunately, compromises these goals.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the US Night Vision Transfer Arm is to facilitate hands-free operation of a PVS-14 or 6015. While it does technically achieve this, the plastic construction and limited articulation hinder its overall performance. The looseness issue I noted early on never resolved itself, even when using new Rhino II mounts.
Its main strength is its lightweight design, which reduces strain during extended use. The primary weakness is its flimsy construction, which leads to instability and raises serious concerns about durability. The arm simply doesn’t inspire confidence.
The Transfer Arm partially meets expectations by enabling hands-free use. However, the compromised stability and questionable durability mean that it ultimately falls short of providing a truly reliable solution. I wouldn’t trust this on a long mission or serious hog hunt.
Design & Ergonomics
The US Night Vision Transfer Arm’s design is simple and straightforward. The black polymer construction keeps the weight down, but the material feels cheap.
The arm is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to attach and adjust. However, the flex in the plastic makes precise adjustments more difficult than with more rigid mounts. The design felt adequate, but the cheap plastic ruins the end user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The lifespan of the US Night Vision Transfer Arm is questionable, especially with regular use. The plastic is prone to cracking and wear, particularly at the connection points.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning. However, the fragile nature of the plastic means that even routine cleaning must be done with extreme care. Any pressure on the plastic gives me anxiety.
Accessories and Customization Options
The US Night Vision Transfer Arm does not come with any additional accessories. It is designed to interface directly with standard Rhino II mounts.
There are no official customization options available for the Transfer Arm. It is compatible with any PVS-14 or 6015 that utilizes a standard mounting interface.
Pros and Cons of US Night Vision Transfer Arm for PVS-14 / 6015 NightVision Devices
Pros
- Lightweight design reduces neck strain.
- Simple and easy to use.
- Affordable price point.
- Compatible with standard Rhino II mounts.
- Enables hands-free operation of PVS-14/6015.
Cons
- Cheap plastic construction raises durability concerns.
- Limited range of articulation.
- The connection point to the Rhino II mount becomes loose with use.
Who Should Buy US Night Vision Transfer Arm for PVS-14 / 6015 NightVision Devices?
This US Night Vision Transfer Arm might be suitable for casual users who require infrequent hands-free operation of their PVS-14 or 6015. It could also serve as a temporary solution while waiting for a more robust mount.
Those who require reliable and durable mounting solutions for professional or frequent use should skip this product. Military personnel, law enforcement officers, and serious hunters would be better served by a metal or reinforced polymer mount. Save your money and invest in quality.
A better Rhino II mount is a must-have accessory, but even with that, I’d recommend replacing the US Night Vision Transfer Arm as soon as possible with something more durable.
Conclusion on US Night Vision Transfer Arm for PVS-14 / 6015 NightVision Devices
The US Night Vision Transfer Arm for PVS-14 / 6015 NightVision Devices offers a low-cost entry point into hands-free night vision operation. However, its cheap plastic construction and resulting lack of durability make it a questionable investment.
The price is certainly attractive. However, the compromises in build quality and reliability are too significant to justify the cost in the long run. You’ll likely end up replacing this arm sooner rather than later.
I would not personally recommend this product for anyone who relies on their night vision equipment in demanding environments. The risk of failure is simply too high. Invest in a more durable mount for peace of mind.