Thread: Question - 850nm or 940nm IR torch?

I'm actually starting to think that external illuminators aren't really needed when the built-in ones are sufficient at the ranges we're usually shooting at. The Pard 008 S (850NM) is quite happy out to 500-550m, so I'm not sure how great a demand is for something better.

Originally Posted by Night_Into_Day

I'm actually starting to think that external illuminators aren't really needed when the built-in ones are sufficient at the ranges we're usually shooting at. The Pard 008 S (850NM) is quite happy out to 500-550m, so I'm not sure how great a demand is for something better.

Another part of the equation is how long do you want your NV scope to run on a single battery? Running the external IR, and turning off the inbuilt IR illuminator means I get a lot more hours before faffing with changing batteries in the Pard.

Over time rabbits learn what that small red light means, and run for the hills as soon as they see it. The 940nm illuminator just makes it easier.
I only bought the external illuminator, as the inbuilt was 850nm, and at the time there were no NV scopes that gave you the option. Things have definitely changed in that space.

I would still like to get a real 940nm laser illuminator, rather than the VCSEL one I currently have. More photons equates to sharper less grainy images, especially at range.

Originally Posted by Night_Into_Day

I'm actually starting to think that external illuminators aren't really needed when the built-in ones are sufficient at the ranges we're usually shooting at. The Pard 008 S (850NM) is quite happy out to 500-550m, so I'm not sure how great a demand is for something better.

Just don't forget us users who use the Add-on type devices - the Sytong HT77 has no illuminator at all - at the cost of an LRF - so external illuminators are very much required!!