A Novel View: The PVS-14 Monocular Explained

August 4, 2023
A Novel View: The PVS-14 Monocular Explained, Steele Industries Inc

The PVS-14 Monocular is a night vision device that has become renowned for its multi-functionality and durability. It is a highly versatile device that features a manual gain control, an infrared LED, LED indicator, and low battery indicator.

With its 40-degree field of view, 27mm objective lens, and 9.8′ to infinity focus range, the PVS-14 Monocular is a superior choice for anyone looking for a reliable night vision device.

This article will provide an overview of the features, benefits, and potential applications of the PVS-14 Monocular. Additionally, it will offer tips on how to best utilize the device for optimal performance.

Overview of the PVS-14 Monocular

The PVS-14 Night Vision Monocular is a multi-functional device that offers a multitude of features. It has manual gain control, an onboard infrared illuminator, waterproofing, and a long-lasting battery life. These features make it the preferred choice of many military forces around the world.

The PVS-14 can be head or helmet mounted and weapon mounted behind most collimated daylight sights. This gives the user increased mobility and tactical awareness. The monocular can be custom-built with image intensifiers from Elbit Systems of America®, Photonis®, or L3Harris®.

It boasts a field of view of 40°, magnification of 1x, diopter adjustment between -6 and +2 diopters, eye relief of 25mm, a focus range of 9.8′ to infinity, and a weight of 355g. This system complies with MIL-PRF-49324(CR), MIL-PRF-49427(CR) and MIL-STD-810G standards.

With such features and compliance, the PVS-14 is an ideal choice for military personnel.

Features of the PVS-14 Monocular

Equipped with manual gain control, an onboard IR illuminator, waterproofing, long battery life, and a wide field of view, the PVS-14 Night Vision Monocular provides users with an array of practical features for enhanced situational awareness and tactical performance.

The manual gain control allows the user to adjust the brightness of the unit based on ambient lighting conditions, while the onboard IR illuminator is waterproof and provides up to 50 hours of battery life on a single AA battery.

The monocular has a field of view of 40° and a magnification of 1x, as well as a diopter adjustment of -6 to +2 diopters, 25mm eye relief, and a 9.8′ to infinity focus range.

It is also submersible up to 66 feet and weighs 12.5 oz.

This system complies with all relevant MIL-PRF standards and has proven to be a reliable piece of equipment for military and civilian users alike.

Benefits of Using the PVS-14 Monocular

Benefitting from its manual gain control, waterproof onboard IR illuminator, long battery life, and wide field of view, the PVS-14 Night Vision Monocular provides users with an array of features to enhance situational awareness and tactical performance.

With the ability to adjust gain in various light conditions, the user can optimize the image in both dark and light conditions.

The waterproof design and long battery life allows for use in a variety of environments and prolonged use.

The 40° field of view allows the user to observe a wider area, increasing their situational awareness.

Additionally, the monocular is compatible with most collimated daylight aimers and Reflex sights, making it a great choice for short-range weapon sighting.

The PVS-14’s features, combined with its compliance with MIL-PRF and MIL-STD standards, make it a reliable and dependable choice for any mission.

Tips for Using the PVS-14 Monocular

Utilizing the PVS-14 Night Vision Monocular provides users with a variety of features to improve their situational awareness and tactical performance.

Gain control allows the user to adjust the amount of light entering the unit in order to optimize visibility. It is important to use the gain setting that best suits the ambient lighting conditions.

Additionally, the onboard IR illuminator enables the user to navigate in complete darkness. Care should be taken to adjust the illuminator’s power setting to the lowest level that still allows for effective navigation.

The battery housing allows for the unit to be powered off in an upright position and on when flipped down. This can help to conserve battery life, which is estimated to be about 50 hours with the use of a AA battery.

Lastly, the PVS-14 is waterproof up to 66 feet. This allows the user to safely use the monocular in any water environment.

Potential Applications of the PVS-14 Monocular

The PVS-14 Night Vision Monocular offers a wide range of potential applications, from navigation in complete darkness to weapon-mounting behind most collimated sights. Its features include:

  • Manual gain control to adjust the brightness of the unit
  • Onboard IR illuminator
  • Waterproof
  • Up to 50+ hours of battery life on a single AA battery

It is also capable of being custom-built with Image Intensifiers from Elbit Systems of America®, Photonis®, or L3Harris®. With a field of view of 40°, a magnification of 1x, diopter adjustment of -6 to +2 Diopters, and a focus range of 9.8′ to infinity, the PVS-14 is an incredibly versatile monocular.

It is also MIL-PRF-49324(CR), MIL-PRF-49427(CR) and MIL-STD-810G compliant, making it an ideal choice for military and law enforcement applications.

PVS-14 Monocular Models Offered by Steele Industries

PVS-14 Photonis Gen 2+ White Phosphor

PVS-14 Monocular, A Novel View: The PVS-14 Monocular Explained, Steele Industries Inc

The PVS-14 comes with newly produced Photonis generation 2+ image intensifier tubes. The starting price for the Photonis White Phosphor version is $2799.98. This monocular is a popular choice due to its affordability.

The PVS-14 is powered by a single AA battery and provides a 40-degree field of view, equivalent to that of a goggle setup. While some believe that the PVS-14 may cause issues with depth perception, this is not the case. When using the device, one eye can see through it while the other cannot, resulting in mixed signals to the brain until you become accustomed to it. It is crucial to practice using night vision devices before engaging in activities with them.

-Dimensions: 4.5″ x 2.0″ x 2.25″

-Weight: 12.4 oz.

-Finish: Matte Black

-Power: One (1) standard AA battery

-Battery Life: Approximately 50 hours at room temperature

-Waterproof: Submersible up to 60′ for 2 hours

-Warranty: 10-year warranty & limited lifetime service

-GATE: Auto

-GAIN: Adjustable/variable

-FOV: 40º

-Objective Lens: F/1.2

-Ocular Lens EFL: 26mm

-Diopter: +2 to -6

-Focus: 10″ to infinity

-Basic Kit: SI/PVS-14, SI/Lens Pen, Warranty Registration, Quality Check Report, Hoffman -Report, Hardcase, Factory Spec Sheet

PVS-14 Elbit Gen 3 Thin Filmed White Phosphor

PVS-14 Monocular, A Novel View: The PVS-14 Monocular Explained, Steele Industries Inc

-Dimensions: 4.5″ x 2.0″ x 2.25″

-Weight: 12.4 oz.

-Finish: Matte Black

-Power: One (1) standard AA battery

-Battery Life: Approximately 50 hours at room temperature

-Waterproof: Submersible up to 60′ for 2 hours

-Warranty: 10-year warranty & limited lifetime service

-GATE: Auto

-GAIN: Adjustable/variable

-FOV: 40º

-Objective Lens: F/1.2

-Ocular Lens EFL: 26mm

-Diopter: +2 to -6

-Focus: 10″ to infinity

-Basic Kit: SI/PVS-14, SI/Lens Pen, Warranty Registration, Quality Check Report, Hoffman -Report, Hardcase, Factory Spec Sheet

→ Other products are available here! (https://steeleindustries.com/products/monoculars/)

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the PVS-14 Monocular cost?

The cost of the PVS-14 Monocular varies based on the manufacturer, type of image intensifier, and additional features. Generally, the monocular ranges from $2,000 to $4,000 USD.

What type of batteries does the PVS-14 Monocular use?

The PVS-14 Night Vision Monocular requires one AA-Size Battery for operation and has an estimated 50+ hours of battery life. It has manual gain control which allows brightness adjustment based on ambient lighting conditions.

Is the PVS-14 Monocular compatible with other night vision optics?

The PVS-14 Night Vision Monocular is compatible with many collimated daylight aimers and Reflex sights, such as ACOG, Aimpoint and EO Tech systems. This allows for the use of the PVS-14 as both a night vision monocular and a short range weapon sight.

What is the viewing range of the PVS-14 Monocular?

The PVS-14 Monocular has a field of view of 40° and a magnification of 1x, with focus range from 9.8″ to infinity. It has an objective lens of 27mm, f/1.2 and an eye relief of 25mm.

Is the PVS-14 Monocular waterproof?

Yes, the PVS-14 Monocular is waterproof with a submersible rating of 66 feet. It also has a power source of one AA-size battery with an operation time of 50+ hours.

Conclusion

The PVS 14 Monocular is an advanced night vision device that offers a wide range of features and benefits. It is designed to be durable, reliable, and offer superior performance with its 40° field of view, manual gain control, infrared LED, LED indicator, and low battery indicator.

With its 27mm objective lens, 9.8′ to infinity focus range, and up to 50 hours of operation on a single AA battery, the PVS 14 is an ideal choice for those looking for a top-of-the-line night vision device.

By following the tips and potential applications of the PVS 14, users can maximize the device’s potential and enjoy a safe and effective night vision experience.