Subject: optics for night vision devices
Date: Nov 9 18:28:28 1999
From: MBlanchrd at aol.com - MBlanchrd at aol.com


In a message dated 11/09/1999 4:21:53 PM Pacific Standard Time,
ka7mcx at juno.com writes:

<< I have no doubt been spoiled by an opportunity to once use a current
model military unit; simply no comparison. They are much heavier, draw
much more power, and are many times more expensive. I'd suggest arranging
a visit to the nearest Army base some dark evening; the PR person may
well be able to let you see what is possible. I understand that some >>

Forgive me, this is not a flame, but a "public service
announcement"..regarding the above, I highly doubt anyone on Ft. Lewis will
allow a "total stranger" to use a Night Vision Device. They are appx $7,000
per set and are treated the same as a weapon in that they are regarded as
"sensitive items." This means they're kept under lock and key at all times
unless the soldier is in the field and even then the soldier is not about to
let someone use it. In normal operations, i.e....meaning daily life on the
cantonement, the soldiers do not carry the NVD's around.
As I said, this isn't a flame, more like a damper. Cabela's catalog sells
some good ones that are American made, they're better than the Russki stuff
but not as good as Army goggles.
By the way, I don't mean to make anyone jealous, but the army goggles are
incredible. You can literally read with them in the middle of the darkest
night.. Helicopter pilots fly at night with them on.
Michelle Blanchard
MBlanchrd at aol.com
Oly, WA