Attachment devices have become standard equipment for many hunters. The ability to hunt safely in the dark is a significant advantage of this technology. The attachment device is simply mounted in front of the scope, which expands the field of view and allows for better visibility. But which design is the best?
There are basically two types of attachment devices: the night vision attachment device and the thermal imaging attachment device. Both have their advantages and disadvantages and are suitable for different purposes.
The night vision attachment device is the classic among attachment devices and also the most widely used. It works with the help of sensors and infrared radiation to enable artificial image brightening. This allows the hunter to observe the surroundings and identify potential game even in the absence of rifle light. Especially in everyday hunting, night vision attachment devices with image intensifier tubes are commonly found.
The image intensifier tube of the night vision attachment device is also referred to as a low-light amplifier. It amplifies the available ambient light, allowing for better visibility in the dark. However, depending on the performance, the devices must also have sufficient light to provide a clear view. If this is not the case, an IR illuminator should be used to improve visibility.
Overall, there are now a variety of manufacturers and different models on the market. The costs for an attachment device are relatively high.
Compared to the thermal imaging attachment device, the night vision attachment device provides a more accurate image. Therefore, it is possible to identify targets at greater distances. The mounting on the scope is also relatively simple, and zeroing is usually not necessary. However, for ethical hunting reasons, a test shot should still be made.
The thermal imaging attachment device, on the other hand, digitally displays the thermal radiation of the surroundings, making objects visible in complete darkness. The devices use a VOx sensor that captures and digitally reproduces the heat radiation from animals or other objects. This allows the hunter to recognize objects in the surroundings even in total darkness.
The significant advantage of the thermal imaging attachment device is that it operates independently of lighting conditions. The device shows the hunter the heat pattern of the surroundings, allowing him to recognize objects even in complete darkness. However, the image quality is often somewhat inferior to that of the night vision attachment device. The mounting on the scope is also often more complicated, as the device is often larger and heavier.
For ethical hunting reasons, a test shot should also be made.
Attachment devices are an important component of hunting equipment and provide the hunter with significant assistance when hunting in the dark. There are different types of attachment devices that are offered at varying prices based on their technical characteristics and performance.
For a night vision attachment device, one should expect to pay around €2,000 for a new device. However, the price varies depending on the manufacturer, performance requirements, and especially modularity. Some manufacturers of attachment devices offer the possibility to build the devices modularly and to expand or modify them as needed. This can reduce the costs of acquiring a new attachment device.
Those who want to purchase a top-of-the-line device should expect to spend up to €9,000. These devices offer high performance and a precise, sharp image. These attachment devices are usually designed for professional use by authorities and the military and therefore come with a correspondingly high price.
There are also used attachment devices on the market that are offered at a lower price. However, it is important to carefully check the condition of the device and to inform oneself about the technical characteristics to ensure that the device meets the hunter's requirements.
You can purchase a night vision attachment device similarly to other hunting equipment either in an online shop, through Frankonia, or from your trusted gunsmith. Various outdoor and bushcraft shops also periodically offer night vision technology. However, it is advisable to thoroughly research the corresponding product beforehand. These shops may lure with devices at very low prices, but their usability in a hunting context is often equally low.
Due to the current rapid technological advancements in hunting night vision and thermal imaging technology and the constant emergence of new models, there is also a significant market for used night vision and thermal imaging attachment devices.
For (young) hunters with a lower budget, it is therefore worthwhile to search for the suitable device. You can also quickly find the ideal used night vision attachment device for you on Gunfinder using intelligent filters and clear categories!
In December 2019, the Bundestag and Bundesrat passed comprehensive amendments to the firearms law that affect the handling and use of night vision technology. These changes have been in effect since February 20, 2020.
According to §40 Abs. 3 WaffG, holders of a valid hunting license are allowed to
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