REVIEW: AABB Functional PVS14 NVG

Seeing in the dark without light? This has been possible for quite a while now - but usually associated with very high costs. Now a glimmer of hope has emerged on the horizon, a functional PVS14 clone from AABB. We'll tell you what you can expect from it:

It is easy to recognize the night vision device in the header. This is not one with image intensifier tubes (like the classic NVGs), but rather a CCD sensor. In the end, it contains a sensor - like that of a digital camera - and a small screen. The major advantage of these sensors is that they won't break if someone shines a flashlight into them, and they also work just fine during the day. Now let's talk about the device itself.

The weight is just under 310g with batteries and rubber eyecup. It is powered by 2 AA batteries. The package includes both the J-arm to attach it to the Rhinoarm, as well as the rail mount. The microfiber cloth for lens care is also included. The craftsmanship is exceptionally good. The J-arm fits into original Rhinoarms, but wobbles a lot (unfortunately a characteristic of this attachment method), there are no problems with the rail mount. The lens has an approximately 2x magnification.

Operation is simple: just turn the knob and it turns on. If the knob is turned more than 2-3 mm, the built-in IR LED activates (shown in violet in the image). Looking through the eyecup reveals the small screen on which you see the image in black and white, and in color with sufficient light. The diopter and focus adjustment works smoothly and it is easy to focus.

We tested it mostly in urban areas with a lot of ambient light. We were very satisfied with the results there, even without the IR LED. In the dark forest, the device unfortunately did not help at all, unless additional IR illuminators were used. It can be said that it is very close to GEN1. The biggest drawback is the very small rectangular field of view, where every GEN1 device is superior. Like GEN1 NVGs, this PVS14 clone is more suitable for stationary observation, as focusing while moving is challenging.

Here is a video we found, showing a view through the device

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vkwfbi-Ke8g

CONCLUSION: Overall, a nice toy that does not offer good tactical utility due to its small field of view. It gives you an idea of how a modern night vision device works, nothing more. The build quality is very good, and a major advantage over a GEN1 device is that you can use it during the day without any problems and without fear of flashlights.

Available e.g. at Toy Soldier on request [email protected] for $249 plus shipping

If someone wants to have the device in the picture (Euro 200): please email [email protected]