1. Night vision goggles refer to any night vision equipment with head gear. Goggles come in three main versions: binocular, monocular, and bi-ocular.
2. All night vision goggles are monochromatic, and all feature a green phosphor screen. Green is the easiest phosphor color for human eyes to detect and decipher.
3. Some night vision goggle terminology: Detection range is the range at which a target has a recognizable silhouette. Recognition range is the range at which recognizable detail is visible.
4. Night vision goggles fall under four classifications called "generations". The generation of night vision you purchase will determine its performance, features, and price.
5. Generation 1 goggles use the oldest technology and are the least expensive, but this doesn't mean they aren't powerful. Gen 1 goggles can detect man-sized objects at 75-100 yards under ideal conditions, and are great for novices or hobbyists.
6. Generation 2 goggles have reduced distortion relative to Gen 1 goggles, as well as a screen with higher resolution and better contrast. They have both a detection and a recognition range of 50 to 75 yards more than Gen 1 goggles.
7. Generation 3 goggles are the highest grade of night vision goggles commonly available. They are often used in the military, and they have detection and recognition ranges of about 200 yards.
8. Gen 2 and Gen 3 goggles both feature many grades and options. A little research into which of these is best suited to your needs will ensure that you're happy with your equipment.
9. Monocular goggles are the least expensive and the lightest kind of night vision goggles, but they are not as comfortable to use as binocular and bi-ocular versions.
10. Bi-ocular night vision goggles feature two eyepieces, but only one lens. Binocular goggles feature two eyepieces and two lenses, which allows for depth perception.
