REVIEW: ACTinBlack DTNVG-14 Night Vision Goggles

What's better than a night vision monocular? Of course, a binocular. With them, the depth of space can be perceived, like a very expensive 3D glasses. The guys from ACTinBlack have created their very own binocular, the Dual Tube Night Vision Goggles (DTNVG). We received one for testing and we want to share our impressions with you.The device comes in a sleek, padded carrying case. This means that the DTNVG is very well-protected. Which is a good thing, because the thing is not cheap. At the same time, the necessary accessories also fit easily in the box. The DTNVG weighs approximately 560 g with batteries, making it relatively lightweight in comparison.

The DTNVG was designed as a lightweight, binocular night vision device for special forces units of the police and military. It provides the user with full depth perception, allowing them to operate safely in difficult terrain and hectic situations. By using standard components, such as AVS and PVS14 lenses, as well as a standard tube format, the DTNVG can be repaired and maintained very easily and effectively. This construction also facilitates a possible extension of product life by upgrading with newer image intensifier tubes or lenses at a later date.

The housing is made of fiber-reinforced polycarbonate, making it lightweight and very sturdy. The two tubes are swivel-mounted, allowing each user to adjust them to their eye distance. In addition, there are other advantages...

If the tubes are folded to the maximum side when you want to see something with the naked eye, the image intensifier tube is automatically turned off to prevent unwanted stray light. When the mounting arm is folded up, the entire device is switched off. Very well thought out, this solution.

The dovetail mount fits securely on all common NVG arms. Whether Wilcox, Norotos, Cadex or Spuhr. The mount offered by ACTinBlack is from the Canadian manufacturer Cadex - HERE we reviewed it in SPARTANAT. The lenses in our test model are compatible with all accessories of the classic PVS 14 - as they are PVS 14 lenses. There is also a version with AN/AVS lenses, for those who prefer them can also order them.

Old monoculars (such as PVS14) can also be upgraded by ACT to new binoculars at a significantly better price. Since the manufacturing and development of the DTNVG takes place in Luxembourg, procurement and possible maintenance are easy to implement. Communication in German as well as fast and direct contact with the manufacturer are clear advantages. All products from ACT are ITAR-free - only upon request does ACTinBlack also deliver versions with US components. (By the way: In addition to the DTNVG, ACT offers a range of other night vision devices and accessories such as PVS14, Mini14/MUM, PVS7 and many other devices.)

Classic handle on the night vision device: focus is adjusted by turning it in the front. This is done on the right and left to select an average operational distance, so that when things get serious outdoors, you don't have to keep turning it.

Both eyepieces naturally have diopter adjustment. The eyecups can be removed if someone doesn't need them.

Here is the battery compartment (for an internationally common CR123) and the control knob. Everything is self-explanatory, that's how simple high-tech can be.

Next to the here enclosed and secured battery compartment you can see the switchable IR LED, in case there is really no residual light to amplify.

Always a classic, the housing marking showing how the battery should be inserted correctly.

A clear advantage of the swivel tubes is the close focal point on the helmet when the DTNVG is flipped up. The tubes can then be swiveled back to the helmet, all of which can be seen in motion in the video (at the beginning, opener).

Front left view of the capped night vision device. The BUMP helmet in the picture is the EXFIL LTP from Team Wendy.

SPARTANAT is the online magazine for Military News, Tactical Life, Gear & Reviews.
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