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AN/PVS-2B VIETNAM ERA STARLIGHT SCOPE.

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:150.00 USD Estimated At:300.00 - 400.00 USD
AN/PVS-2B VIETNAM ERA STARLIGHT SCOPE.

The AN/PVS-2 scope is a first generation night vision device, first developed during the Vietnam war era. & underwent numerous revisions during its run. While very large and heavy compared to current offerings, this 6 pound passive starlight scope was high-tech, state of the art equipment that greatly assisted our soldiers, giving the US a massive advantage when fighting at night. Its capabilities weren't limited to offensive tactics, but proved helpful at thwarting night time defensive assaults as well. The early night scopes were passive, and did not emit any light of their own, relying on natural / available light to function. The available light was amplified using a photocathode and an image intensifier tube in order to significantly increase image contrast. Because they emit no light, and only gather it, they are not detectable. They were commonly referred to as "starlight scopes" since they performed best on clear nights with star and/or moon light. It has a standard mount on the bottom for attaching to rails, such as used on the M-16 rifle. It is activated w/ a tiny paddle switch on the left side. On the objective lens is a daylight filter that is slipped off for night use, but protects the sensitive electronics during daylight hours. It utilizes a grey rubber eye shield w/ an internal shutter that prevents light from escaping around the eye under use. The focus adjustment is directly forward of the eyepiece, & the battery compartment is a large threaded cover located just on top, in front of the focal adjustment. They were designed to use an odd proprietary battery, that's been replaced w/ an adapter utilizing 4 common AAA batteries. Black data plate on left side over original tube nomenclature marked: "NIGHT VISION SYSTEM / MODEL NO. AN/PVS-2B" & serial number. Unit measures 15.5" in length and weighs 6.25# without battery. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: Silver aluminum briefcase custom fitted w/ dense Styrofoam. CONDITION: All exterior tube surfaces are a correct matte black. Mounting hardware is the appropriate gloss black. Large red IR lens cover for daytime use. Grey eye cup has been distorted due to tight packaging / storage. Glass appearance is unblemished, outwardly, but unable to verify electronics for function. (02-16974/JZ). $300-400.