TYR Tactical

Archive for the ‘Optics’ Category

ASU Awarded Patent for Ultra-Compact Night Vision Video Camera

Tuesday, October 25th, 2016

‘Capture the Night’ with ASU’s Newly Patented Compact Night-Vision Video Camera

(BOISE, IDAHO– October 24th, 2016) Aviation Specialties Unlimited (ASU) was awarded their first patent on the EcliptusTM night vision camera system that allows users to finally capture the night in full HD video.


The newly patented Ecliptus™ offers the functionality of the GoPro® HERO4 camera with the benefit of military-tested night vision light intensification. This new technology is a portable and user-friendly way to capture and stream video in extremely low-light scenarios.

“The Ecliptus™ is already being used by the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force for documentation, after-action reports, and even professional-quality video production,” said ASU CEO Mike Atwood. The portable size and convenience lends itself to applications in law enforcement, security, and defense as well research, recreation, and media production.”


The Ecliptus offers a 40-degree field of view, weighs less than one pound, is integrated with the GoPro® Hero 4 and captures images at 12 megapixels with a burst mode at 30 frames per second. It captures night vision images utilizing a military grade AN/PVS-14 objective lens, records in ultra-high definition (4X HD), and stores these images using a 16 GB SD card. Images and video can also be viewed in real time using WiFi enabled smart devices. The camera modes can be controlled using the GoPro® button controls and from mobile devices with the GoPro app.

“This patent is a major accomplishment for ASU,” said ASU President Jim Winkel. “ASU has been known for years as a night vision global leader providing equipment for aviation and ground-based operators. This patent heralds ASU’s emergence as a night vision manufacturer. Our growing capabilities enable us to listen to our customers need and design customized products that satisfy their mission-critical requirements. Each night men and women around the world conduct demanding, lifesaving missions. Through continued investment in new product, we will continue to enable those who serve and protect to complete their mission and return home safely. That is why we do what we do at ASU.”

Earlier this year, GoPro® invited ASU to be one of only a handful of companies to participate in their developers program; a program spear-headed by GoPro to support companies developing products that integrate with GoPro® technologies. ASU was selected to participate in the program because of the night vision capabilities that the Ecliptus brings to existing GoPro technology and its utilization to aid others in their mission to serve and protect.

“Obtaining the patent for the Ecliptus is something that inspires our entire company,” said ASU Chief Technology Officer Dr. Joseph Estrera. “The Ecliptus is a great product, but it is just the beginning of our new product development activities. We will continue our research and development efforts to invent and innovate products that enable others to serve and protect their communities.”

For additional information about the Ecliptus visit www.ecliptusnv.com

DEP USA Shipping Enhanced AN/PVS-14 Housings Including New Hyper MUM

Tuesday, October 25th, 2016

Recently, DEP USA ran a multi-part series on their new replacement AN/PVS-14 monocular housings, the Hyper14™ /Vyper14™ in 7075 aluminum and polymer respectively. Now, there is an addition, the Hyper MUM™ and DEP is shipping all of the chassis variants this month, to include the new Hyper MUM™.

In addition to the aluminum exoskeletons, the patented internal dampening sleeve mitigates recoil on some of the most abusive bullet dispensers and drop shock from slippery fingered users. The re-designed surfaces allow for significant increases in modularity, scalability and overall ruggedization to include submersion beyond typical EO devices.

The base chassis system can be purchased via DEP distribution along with the other accessories, such as interface shoes, objective lens upgrade kit (shown in titanium/polymer) and other enhancements. The Hyper MUM™ chassis now allows open source modularity (outside of the manufacturer) for various evolutions buy industry and users, a concept pervasive in the industry but largely excluding EO.

All the legacy MUM components are still compatible (minus included upgrade screws), such as the battery compartment, optics and issue support accessories. If you have a legacy MUM and want upgrades or the options of PVS-14 style capabilities such as a USGI 3X magnifier, dual bridge use, or general ruggedization the Hyper MUM™ options supports these capabilities significantly.

Several chassis improvements over the legacy plastic component include full/uninterrupted internal threads, custom image tube fit, shock dampening, tighter overall tolerances, custom fit sealing gasket, and fully heli-coiled interface junctures.

Hyper MUM™ chassis increases the legacy plastic device weight some 27g, about the half the weight of a NATO 5.56 round.

The beta chassis seen here took over 100 blows with a roofing hammer in an (unsuccessful) attempt to sheer the weapon shoe. It was also shot with a .22LR standard load at 10’ to no effect. The chassis protects and supports the costly image tube, and this is what it does well.

The Hyper MUM™ allows use of the PVS-14 style after-market collar style weapons mounts, and other open source interface products.

Email DEP USA for information on distributors.

Did You Know Maven Custom Engraves Binos?

Sunday, October 23rd, 2016

mavenbuilt.com

Aimpoint – 3X-C Magnifier Now Available

Friday, October 21st, 2016

The new Aimpoint 3X-C Magnifier, which debuted at SHOT Show is now shipping to dealers.

Developed for the civilian end user, the 3X-C can be used in conjunction with all Aimpoint sights for long-range aiming or observation. Additionally, a variable (-2 to +2) dioptric setting allows this magnifier to be adapted to the individual shooter’s eye.

The 3X-C can also be used as a handheld 3X monocular. Aimpoint magnifiers utilize the red dot in Aimpoint sights as the aiming reticle, eliminating the need for re-zeroing when shifting between non-magnified and magnified aiming.
The 3X-C is encased in a shock absorbing protective rubber cover that also creates an ideal ergonomic grip. Internal optical adjustments make aligning the magnifier and sight quick and easy.

MSRP: $307.00

Look for the Magnifier from these great dealers:
LaRue
Strohman
Telluric Group
G&R Tactical
Clyde Armory
Green Top Sporting Goods
Brownells
Aim Surplus
Birmingham Pistol Club

The other magnifiers released during SHOT are coming soon.

The Aimpoint 6x Magnifier Is Coming

Wednesday, October 5th, 2016

This image at AUSA from Aimpoint claims that the 6x magnifier is coming but I’ve got a feeling it’s really only just breathing hard.

Shield Sights Announces Full Production of RMS (Mini Reflex Sight)

Wednesday, October 5th, 2016

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Dorset, England – October 5th, 2016 – Shield Sights is pleased to announce the RMS (Reflex Mini Sight) has now entered full production and has begun shipping to customers around the world.

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The Shield RMS is next evolution in mini red dots. Small enough to fit discreetly on any pistol, rifle, or shotgun. The RMS is tough enough to withstand the harshest recoil and light enough that you won’t even feel it’s there. Its light weight and rugged construction combined with its, low profile design makes the RMS an ideal optic for any custom pistol build. The RMS coupled with our matching low profile Glock MOS plate, the RMS sits low enough to co-witness your standard height sights without the need for elevated suppressor sights.

co-witness

“The RMS is an update to a modern classic.” said James White. “For 20 years we have been building the world’s smallest mini red dot sights some of which you may know as the SMS, J-Point, Trijicon Red-dot, and others.”

Features:
-Machined from strong, aerospace grade aluminium
-Very fast automatic brightness adjustment to adapt to your environment
-Quick release side accessible battery drawer
-Very low profile

www.shieldpsd.com

AUSA – Harris Introduces F5032 Lightweight Night Vision Binocular

Tuesday, October 4th, 2016


The F5032 Lightweight Night Vision Binocular weighs just under 500 grams. It also offers close focus with clear images as close as 9″.

The F5032 fixed or adjustable diopter.

Powered by a single AA, the F5032’s Gen 3 image intensifier tube is servicable at the unit level and offered in White or Green Phosphour. The tubes are autogated which will adjust to high light levels and won’t shut off inadvertendly. It also features vertical viewing ability and won’t shut off when you look up.

Each monocular in the F5032 can be individually flipped up, out of the way.


I like the switch which is a simple detent for on/off.

www.harris.com

AUSA – Spuhr AB Introduces Production QDP Mounts To Their Line

Tuesday, October 4th, 2016

At SHOT Show, Spuhr exhibited pre-production versions of their new Quick Detach Picatinny series. The mounts have the same layout as their standard mounts. However, they’ve moved the side clamp from the right side to the left to avoid spent round ejection as well as any right side mounted controls.

In case you were wondering, this is the Spuhr QDP 4002 which offers 34mm tube compatibility and 1.5″ from centerline to top of Picatinny rail and no tilt. It’s shipping now, but additional models are coming.

One other difference is that they moved the logo on the QDP series in order to accommodate Spuhr interface holes for accessory mounting.


Spuhr AB products are available for unit and agency orders through Quantico Tactical.