View Full Version : My PVS-14 Weapon/Helmet Mount Set Up
Hey guys,
I didn't see a separate forum for night vision, so I thought I'd post this here. Not too long ago, I had the opportunity to look through a friend's Raptor 4x Gen 3 NV Scope. It was my first time looking through a serious NV device, and I was blown away. I found a good deal on a PVS-14, and couldn't pass it up.
I originally thought I would want to have the NVD weapon mounted, so I purchased a TM-14 mount from TNVC to place behind my EOTech EXPS 3-0. I went with the EOTech due to the larger field of view when using the NVD. Here are some pics of that set up:
http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/4118/dsc04560k.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/684/dsc04560k.jpg/)
http://img718.imageshack.us/img718/5711/dsc04562x.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/718/dsc04562x.jpg/)
After using this set up for a while, I realized that much of the time I wanted to use the PVS-14, I was not hunting, or even if I was, I didn't want to look down the gun all the time. So, I put together a helmet set up, which I much prefer to having the NVD weapon mounted. Here are some pics of that:
http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/6044/dsc04730o.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/20/dsc04730o.jpg/)
http://img809.imageshack.us/img809/6161/dsc04731l.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/809/dsc04731l.jpg/)
http://img52.imageshack.us/img52/1495/dsc04732kb.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/52/dsc04732kb.jpg/)
http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/512/dsc04733e.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/13/dsc04733e.jpg/)
So far, I am loving the PVS-14, especially since I have been using it head mounted. If you haven't have a chance to check out a current generation night vision device, find somebody that has one, and give it a try. Finally, a couple pics through the PVS-14. The camera doesn't do the image justice, but it's the best I could do. These were taken out in the country on a very dark night. Without the NVD, you couldn't see anything (I'll spare you the black photo of nothing :D)
http://img855.imageshack.us/img855/1603/dsc04587d.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/855/dsc04587d.jpg/)
http://img814.imageshack.us/img814/7346/dsc04593.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/814/dsc04593.jpg/)
http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/7788/dsc04588mt.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/3/dsc04588mt.jpg/)
If you have any questions or comments, let me know! :)
Wow, not much interest in NV here. I'll try to find another way to contribute. Lol.
Wow, not much interest in NV here. I'll try to find another way to contribute. Lol.
Oh there is interest, some of us just don't currently have the means to play along.
That's a sick setup. Did you buy it as a complete rig?
That's a sick setup. Did you buy it as a complete rig?
Thanks! No, I didn't buy it as a complete rig. When I first got the PVS-14, I thought I'd want it weapon mounted most of the time, so I bought the TNVC TM-14 mount to put it behind my Eotech. While it is a great system, and works as advertised, I found I didn't want to have to hold my rifle to my face the whole time I wanted to see in the dark.
So, I started looking for a head mount alternative. I ended up with the helmet you see pictured, along with the IR sources and counterweight mounted to it. I am using the factory j-arm and a Norotos rhino mount I purchased online. So far, it is working well and provides all the adjustment I need to make it comfortable.
The NVD quickly and easily removes from the helmet and snaps onto the rifle when needed. Really is a slick set up. The best way to be sure you are going to be happy with what you put together is to call TNVC, and then actually take their suggestions.
Oh there is interest, some of us just don't currently have the means to play along.
Understand. It is definately not a cheap arena to get into. I sold off a few things from the collection to make it happen, and so far, am glad I did. If you've never had the chance to look through current gen night vision in person, you are really missing out. I am pretty new to this myself, and the first time I got a chance to try out a buddy's set up, I was hooked.
I find that I use it for so many things that are not firearms related. Walks at night, camping, looking at stars, peeking in on my sleeping 1 year old. Yes, my wife thinks I'm nuts, but what else is new?
Is that the Ops Core Bump helmet?
Also, what is the flat, green glow stick looking thing? What's its purpose?
As you already know from your previous thread, a PVS14 with gun-to-helmet capability is on my short list....just sucks being a poor college guy.
NoveskeFan
09-21-11, 15:08
...Also, what is the flat, green glow stick looking thing? What's its purpose?...
http://www.rptactical.com/product-detail/s-s-precision-v-lite/product-detail/494
http://www.sandsprecision.com/
snackgunner
09-21-11, 15:10
Im jealous. Awesome setup.
Is that the Ops Core Bump helmet?
Also, what is the flat, green glow stick looking thing? What's its purpose?
As you already know from your previous thread, a PVS14 with gun-to-helmet capability is on my short list....just sucks being a poor college guy.
Yep, it is the Ops-Core FAST Base Jump Helmet. They are quite a bit cheaper than the Ops-Core ballistic helmets and are much lighter, but obviously, don't offer the same level of protection. However, I am just using it as a platform to mount a NVD, not for the protection aspect.
The green light is called a V-Lite, and is manufactured by S&S Precision. They make red, green, blue, and IR. It just serves as an identification aid so others can see you at night. Obviously, the wearer of the helmet can't see it, so it doesn't interfere with the operation of the NVD, but it helps others see where you are, whether they are wearing NVDs or not. Useful when hunting at night.
I figured that was it...Would be useful in a training environment also...but I'm sure you wouldn't have that on if you were investigating a "bump in the night"...you have a very nice setup Scott!
Eurodriver
09-21-11, 19:23
Right now I have a ridiculously heavy, but bullet resistant, helmet.
I am looking more into a lightweight helmet setup because most of the time I am using NVGs no one is shooting at me. Where'd you get yours?
Here was my previous passive setup,
http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/6417/1002302i.jpg
I like the weight of the T1 and the battery life of the aimpoint over Eotech, and there is absolutely zero difference in field of view. I strongly urge you to try it out. I sold the 14.5" upper and I'm currently waiting for my Form 1 to process. It will go on a 10.5" upper with an M4-2000 and a Centurion Arms C4 9" rail.
This is my active NVG setup. Its perfect in every way, I just need a lighter helmet and my Form 4 to process for my M4-2000 ;)
http://img23.imageshack.us/img23/1513/1002825j.jpg
Oh there is interest, some of us just don't currently have the $$$$$ to play along.
Amen!
Soon, maybe a Christmas present to myself.
QuietShootr
09-21-11, 20:18
VERY nice rig. Can you run down the pieces/parts on the helmet for us?
Iraq Ninja
09-21-11, 23:24
Nice, but...
I suggest upgrading your mount and J arm, since the mil issue stuff is not the best. I consider J arms disposable since they often break and fail. Wilcox is the better choice but expensive. Or do what I do I keep spare J arms around.
Avoid the temptation to hang stuff on your helmet, including flashlights unless you really need em. You got more lights than a surefire booth on that lid :). I like to keep the weight down and the helmet streamlined. Flashlights tend to get stuck on branches and vines.
I also use the Ops Core but never had a need to use a counter balance on the rear. Just more wasted weight on my head. But, I think they are a good idea for helmets with a poor suspension system.
I too agree with most helmets being heavy enough to serve as their own ballast - I wouldn't bother adding any to my LWH unless I was going heavier than a monocular unit (PVS-14). Better suspension (OPS H-Nape comes to mind) can do a lot more to mitigate helmet droop, without adding weight. I'm considering just storing a few batteries in those pouches, since it seems like a reasonable place to keep stuff like that.
That Helmet/NV/EXPS/Suppressor setup is sexy beyond reason.
OP/Eurodriver: Do you ever mind having the TNVC mount on the PVS when running it on a helmet? That's my only concern, otherwise that would be my setup right now.
I am looking more into a lightweight helmet setup because most of the time I am using NVGs no one is shooting at me. Where'd you get yours?
I like the weight of the T1 and the battery life of the aimpoint over Eotech, and there is absolutely zero difference in field of view. I strongly urge you to try it out. I sold the 14.5" upper and I'm currently waiting for my Form 1 to process. It will go on a 10.5" upper with an M4-2000 and a Centurion Arms C4 9" rail.
This is my active NVG setup. Its perfect in every way, I just need a lighter helmet and my Form 4 to process for my M4-2000 ;)
I got my helmet from TNVC. They come in and out of stock pretty quickly, so I'd call to verify they have one before you order.
I haven't tried an Aimpoint with the PVS-14 yet, but I'd like to, although I do really like the Eotech. Actually, the guys at TNVC indicated I would get a little better FOV with the EoTech, which is why I went that route.
You'll enjoy that M4-2000 when you get it. They are great cans.
VERY nice rig. Can you run down the pieces/parts on the helmet for us?
Thanks, and I'll be glad to:
Ops-Core FAST Base Jump Helmet
Norotos rhino mount with standard j-arm
SureFire M1 IR Illuminator in a Viking Tactical mount
EOG Low Profile Counter Weight
S&S Precision green V-Lite
SureFire Helmet Light with Y/G and IR LEDs
Nice, but...
I suggest upgrading your mount and J arm, since the mil issue stuff is not the best. I consider J arms disposable since they often break and fail. Wilcox is the better choice but expensive. Or do what I do I keep spare J arms around.
Avoid the temptation to hang stuff on your helmet, including flashlights unless you really need em. You got more lights than a surefire booth on that lid :). I like to keep the weight down and the helmet streamlined. Flashlights tend to get stuck on branches and vines.
Thanks for the input! I totally agree with you on upgrading the mount. However, I used the stock j-arm and bought the rhino mount for $50. To upgrade to a Wilcox would run around an extra $500. I am able to adjust the PVS-14 to a comfortable position without any problems, so I would only be upgrading to improve duability. It just isn't worth it to me right now. I have since added Wilcox lanyard retention system, so worst case, the mount breaks, but the PVS-14 doesn't hit the ground. I am not using the set up in a LE or military application, which is why I haven't upgraded.
As far as hanging stuff on the helmet, it's only two lights! :D And they really do serve very different purposes. The beam profiles and power are totally different. The helmet light is not very powerful, but does a great job producing a lot of flood to light up the area right around you. The M1 is totally different. Through NVDs, it appears almost like a spotlight. Very tight beam, but without a lot of throw. Hard to explain, but it's kind of like a spotlight used in a stage production. But I do agree with you, having used the set up a little more now, I plan to ditch the M1, and just use the helmet light for "walking around." If I need to light up somthing further away, I can activate the M952V on the rifle.
I too agree with most helmets being heavy enough to serve as their own ballast - I wouldn't bother adding any to my LWH unless I was going heavier than a monocular unit (PVS-14).
OP/Eurodriver: Do you ever mind having the TNVC mount on the PVS when running it on a helmet? That's my only concern, otherwise that would be my setup right now.
I have to disagree with you and Iraq Ninja on the counter weight system. I kind of threw one in when I purchased the helmet as an afterthought, but I am glad I did. The one I got came with 6 weights, but I am only using 3. To me it makes the helmet set up more comfortable after using it for an extended period. Though the PVS-14 is relatively light, it still pulls down on the front of the helmet, and I like the weight to counterbalance in the back. Personal preference, I guess.
As far as the TM-14 mount staying on the NVD while it is helmet mounted... It is extremely light, so the weight is not even worth mentioning. I find I bump it occasionally when I am fumbling around to focus the objective lens, but overall, it isn't really a nuisence. To me, it is well worth it to be able to quickly remove the PVS-14 and snap it onto the rifle flat top when needed.
Eurodriver
09-22-11, 11:26
Scott, I am not an anti-eotech guy by any means. I used to have an XPS as well. I like the reticle and never had any issues with mine, I just wanted something with an "infinite" battery life. I was just advising you that the FOV "loss" (if any) is not significant enough to avoid the T1 if you plan on changing things up in the future.
OP/Eurodriver: Do you ever mind having the TNVC mount on the PVS when running it on a helmet? That's my only concern, otherwise that would be my setup right now.
No. I don't even notice it, it weighs maybe an ounce and is out of the way.
Nice, but...
I suggest upgrading your mount and J arm, since the mil issue stuff is not the best. I consider J arms disposable since they often break and fail. Wilcox is the better choice but expensive. Or do what I do I keep spare J arms around.
Avoid the temptation to hang stuff on your helmet, including flashlights unless you really need em. You got more lights than a surefire booth on that lid :). I like to keep the weight down and the helmet streamlined. Flashlights tend to get stuck on branches and vines.
I also use the Ops Core but never had a need to use a counter balance on the rear. Just more wasted weight on my head. But, I think they are a good idea for helmets with a poor suspension system.
I hate that damn jarm. Is there anything better that will work with the rest of the .mil system. I don't want to have to replace my entire mounting system.
I hate that damn jarm. Is there anything better that will work with the rest of the .mil system. I don't want to have to replace my entire mounting system.
This is a good question. Is there a "upgraded" version of the regular j-arm? I'd love to be able to keep my rhino mount, but just buy a little better constructed j-arm...
Nice, but...
I suggest upgrading your mount and J arm, since the mil issue stuff is not the best. I consider J arms disposable since they often break and fail. Wilcox is the better choice but expensive. Or do what I do I keep spare J arms around.
Avoid the temptation to hang stuff on your helmet, including flashlights unless you really need em. You got more lights than a surefire booth on that lid :). I like to keep the weight down and the helmet streamlined. Flashlights tend to get stuck on branches and vines.
I also use the Ops Core but never had a need to use a counter balance on the rear. Just more wasted weight on my head. But, I think they are a good idea for helmets with a poor suspension system.
I agree on the counter weight with the ballistic helmet not being needed for just a 14. I add a small one to my Ballistic Helmet with Binos systems like the PVS 15 and the BNVDs.
The Base jump on the other hand, being so light, it REALLY does need a counter weight.
This is a good question. Is there a "upgraded" version of the regular j-arm? I'd love to be able to keep my rhino mount, but just buy a little better constructed j-arm...
Actually the current J Arm, officially called a "Head Set adapter" is the upgrade... except they went the wrong direction.
In a effort to get a finer adjustment out of the arm they went from very large round detents to very fine teeth. The problem is the teeth have about 1 /10th of the strength as the older design and frequently snap right the HELL off... at the worst possible moment, turning the swing arm in to a flopping, loose mess.
What you want is an older arm, and the easy way to tell them apart is the older arms large 1/4 X 20 mounting bolt was a two piece affair with a screw through the middle of it. Also the electrical contacts on the older arm are generally gold in color.
Ok here are pictures of what I am talking about,
New style ya don't want...
See the small fine teeth? These are what break easily and essentially ruin your night.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v207/IPSC_GUY/IMG_0464.jpg
The mounting screw is one solid machined piece,
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v207/IPSC_GUY/IMG_7105.jpg
The electrical contacts are silver in color,
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v207/IPSC_GUY/IMG_8436.jpg
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Older Style ya do want,
See the ball and detent design that the J Arm used to use. These are much more resilient. While not as fine in adjustment the chance for failure is MUCH less
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v207/IPSC_GUY/IMG_4601.jpg
The older two Piece mounting bolt,
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v207/IPSC_GUY/IMG_7636.jpg
The Gold colored electrical contacts,
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v207/IPSC_GUY/IMG_8232.jpg
So if ya can find one of the older J - Arms, pick it up and it will last you a good long time. If not carry a couple spares of the new ones for when they break. Notice I said "when..."
IPSC_GUY
SIERRA II ALPHA
Awesome. Thanks for the info on the j-arm! I had no idea.
... so it was nice to see a setup like that and read some of the comments. The only thing I have to add is that when using a rifle with a NVG setup have you considered a IR laser/light/combo? if you haven't and intend to look into it, please keep us posted. If you have, could you tell me where you went with your thought process on it?
Thanks.
i remember when this thread started and came across this video that seemed to illustrate a lot of the issues discussed and figured this was the best place to share.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acwKkxnusRw&feature=related
sorry it's from an airsofter... but it seems the mounts are real
Taprackngo
08-26-12, 01:56
If the twist mount ever bothers you, look into the multi mount system from GG&G. The PVS14 mount is a simple ring that is very light. You can also mount a 3x magnifier and simply swap them out. Its very quick and works very well. I have used it for a couple years. I then bought a LDI DBAL i2 and since I now have a IR laser I decided to stay with a dedicated helmet mount. My system now has a Acog with a offset T1 mount.
http://www.gggaz.com/pvs-14-quick-detach-multi-flex-night-vision-mount.html
http://www.gggaz.com/aimpoint-3x-magnifier-quick-detach-multi-flex-base-and-adapter.html
ClearedHot
08-26-12, 03:08
I've broken 2 of the shitty USGI J Arm's back when I was using the Norotos Rhino mount. Also, I never could stand the auto shutoff feature built into the USGI J Arm, so I snipped the wire.
I recently upgraded to a Wilcox L3G10 with the Wilcox J Arm and couldn't be happier. :)
I upgraded to a Wilcox L4 G-24 from a Norotos AKA2 mount and now use the Norotos Dual Dovetail mount for my PVS-14s, major improvement over the USGI J-Arm setup. Makes for a nice improvement in the transition from the helmet to rail and back again too:
http://www.phossil.com/thom/Night%20Vision/Poloraid%204.5X%20Tele/Sig%20Polaroid%204,5X.jpg
http://www.phossil.com/thom/Night%20Vision/Poloraid%204.5X%20Tele/Right.jpg
http://www.phossil.com/thom/Night%20Vision/TelePhoto%20Pics/Polaroid%20with%20Eotech.jpg
http://www.phossil.com/thom/Night%20Vision/TelePhoto%20Pics/Polaroid%20with%20IR%20Laser.jpg
http://www.phossil.com/thom/Night%20Vision/Torch%20Pro/Torch%20Pro%20SIG.jpg
Was about to write the same exact thing. A huge improvement over the standard J-Arm.
I remember a few years ago playing at Ft. Bragg with some kit and the amount of broken J-arms and mounts sitting in one large room after only a 6 month deployment from the boys made my head spin in tax payer dollars! :cray:
Vic
I upgraded to a Wilcox L4 G-24 from a Norotos AKA2 mount and now use the Norotos Dual Dovetail mount for my PVS-14s, major improvement over the USGI J-Arm setup. Makes for a nice improvement in the transition from the helmet to rail and back again too:
http://www.phossil.com/thom/Night%20Vision/Poloraid%204.5X%20Tele/Sig%20Polaroid%204,5X.jpg
http://www.phossil.com/thom/Night%20Vision/Poloraid%204.5X%20Tele/Right.jpg
http://www.phossil.com/thom/Night%20Vision/TelePhoto%20Pics/Polaroid%20with%20Eotech.jpg
http://www.phossil.com/thom/Night%20Vision/TelePhoto%20Pics/Polaroid%20with%20IR%20Laser.jpg
http://www.phossil.com/thom/Night%20Vision/Torch%20Pro/Torch%20Pro%20SIG.jpg
i have an opscore helmet, how did you mount the surefire helmet light , the tan one I have one from my old helmet that im trying to mount on the rail?
Thanks
Steve
i have an opscore helmet, how did you mount the surefire helmet light , the tan one I have one from my old helmet that im trying to mount on the rail?
Thanks
Steve
Hi Steve,
From our friends at Tango Down. :-) http://tangodown.com/shop/product_info.php?cPath=35&products_id=77
Anyone know where I can get a mount and helmet for a Litton PVS-7A. I heard that the mounting hardware is different from the pvs-7b/d models.
I got an excellent deal on them but have no mounting equipment or accessories. They are very clear Gen3 tubes with very little hours. Pics up tomorrow.
Dirk Williams
09-06-12, 09:16
What is the device on the front lense of your pvs14
DW
Thanks, I'll have to order one
Here it is. It is as clear or even clearer than the Pvs 14. I need help finding mounting equipment for this.
http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu149/kyrin88/65ac79e937e35f7cdb605a2421eedee2.jpg
http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu149/kyrin88/86f792d3fd7ffe1668408a49982540bc.jpg
Here it is. It is as clear or even clearer than the Pvs 14. I need help finding mounting equipment for this.
http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu149/kyrin88/65ac79e937e35f7cdb605a2421eedee2.jpg
http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu149/kyrin88/86f792d3fd7ffe1668408a49982540bc.jpg
http://tnvc.com/shop/norotos-aka2-mount-w-interchangeable-interface-sockets/
http://tnvc.com/shop/norotos-invg-mount/
http://tnvc.com/shop/wilcox-l4-g24-mount-w-low-profile-breakaway-base/
Take your pick...
Thanks clasky. Hey I'm having a few problems with this unit and I think you are the man to talk to. When I turn it to the on position it does not turn on right away; it takes me having to switch back and forth from either the ir mode outside the white circle to the on to the off and back to the on a few times . When it's on it rocks, but is their any way I can get this fixed or serviced? Thanks in advance.
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