What I suggest more than anything is get around the equipment and if your friends don't have then consider taking a class. Most professional NV Classes like those offered from TNVC have rental options. Your about to make a large investment and not really understanding what your about to buy or its true capabilities can not only be expensive but discouraging.
If it were me, and Im deep in the NV pool, I would get a really nice white phos PVS-14. Robert at JRH as mentioned should be able to get you a great Night Vision Devices WP 14 for less that $4K with a real 10 year warranty. There are others that can do the same but they will be built on their bench and probably not be able to offer such a strong warranty. J-Arm and Wilcox Mount another $600. Helmet, well that's another subject if you don't already have one. Just be dome with it and buy a B.E. Meyers MAWL. Yes, you will bitch about the price but be extremely happy in the end.
What is your actual end game? Hunting, start gazing or just want the ability to fight with your carbine while the others are hiding and waiting for the sun?
You can always add to the system. Nothing at all wrong with bridging two 14's and the weight isn't all that bad. TWO is ONE as they say but if you don't have two NV equipped rifles the idea of splitting for a buddy or loved one is just an idea. There is nothing that a 14 cant do that binos really do better other than offer a bit more comfort when used for extended periods of time. Just so you understand with binos you will not see or have any more field of view over a single 14. With binos both eyes are seeing the same thing and your brain process that slightly better. All that being said having an unaided eye has its advantages in mixed lighting situations and in navigating terrain and reading features. A single 14 works much better and faster if your plan includes a white weapon light and/or pistol. There will come a time in the operation when switching to white light is simply needed and will allow faster movement and produce more information.
I run and have both set ups and can tell you because I'm scared of the dark I feel naked without a 14 close at hand. NVGs are simply an amazing, game changing piece of equipment. Before guys buy more guns they should be buying NODs
All of my friends tell me rnvg is the way, not to mess with a 14. I'm new to nods. Looked through a 14 handheld once. Why do you feel 14>rnvg? You seem in the minority, here.
This would help topics like this one not fall off the “what’s new” cycle. Although, it might not do anything to increase discussion by knowledgeable people beyond what already exists.
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