Introduction
Kaps is a German producer of sports optics that manufactures classic, traditional, mechanical optics of high quality. Their offer comprises well-built FFP-riflescopes with a good illumination system. In the last few years, many of the optics manufacturing companies have decided to take a plunge and try themselves in the manufacturing of night vision optics. In Europe, night vision devices are rapidly gaining in popularity. We stopped at Kaps’ booth at IWA 2019, happy to see their answer to the demands of the market – NSG 3×42 HD, an analog night vision monocular.
NSG 3×42 HD
The first-ever night vision device by Kaps is of the analog type. It is a Gen 2+ monocular, available with two tubes made by Photonis: a standard, green version, and the Onyx (black-white) version. NSG works at 3x magnification and has an objective diameter of 42 millimeters. On the outside, it is extremely appealing, elegant, and unique. Most night vision device producers use a standard, identical form for their devices, which is why the new product by Kaps stands out of the crowd. It proudly wears the label ‘made in Germany’.
Not only is it appealing to the eye; it is also extremely sturdy and robust. We were told that it can operate at extreme temperatures all the way to –40 degrees Celsius. It works on a CR2 battery. The weight is standard – a little above 600 g, and the dimensions are also nothing out of the ordinary at 28 x 8.6 x 7.1 cm.
By default, it comes with Laserluchs LA 808 – 150 II illuminator with a dimmer, a combination that costs 700 € if you purchase it separately. This is currently one of the best illuminators on the market that you can combine with analog night vision. The standard model (green) of Kaps NSG 3×42 HD costs 3500 € (illuminator included), while the Onyx model will cost around 800 € more.
Currently, the device is available in two colours: black and – interestingly – pink. The model in pink colour will attract the attention of the female part of the hunters’ population.
Conclusion
At Kaps’ booth, we were not able to test the device thoroughly. The photocathode can get damaged by daylight, which is why we observed the surroundings at IWA 2019 with the protection filter attached (it has a small opening in the centre). From what we’ve seen, the quality is exceptional, but we can’t wait to test its full capabilities in the field at night. With NSG 3×42 HD, Kaps has made a promising breakthrough in the world of optics, and we are glad to see them conform to modern trends.
