All of Your Night Vision Questions, Answered: The Ultimate NVG FAQ

The Answers to All of Your Night Vision Questions

Ever wondered why night vision is always green, costs a fortune, or how Navy SEALs see in pitch black without breaking a sweat? You're not alone—and you're in the right place. This isn’t your average boring tech guide.

This is the straight-shooting, no-fluff, tactical breakdown of every major night vision question you're too curious (or too manly) to Google. Let’s dive into the shadows and come out seeing clearly.

Why is night vision green?

Because the human eye can distinguish more shades of green than any other color, and it's less straining for extended viewing. Green phosphor screens also provide high contrast and clarity in low light.

Why is night vision so expensive?

Night vision tech isn’t built cheap. High-grade components like image intensifier tubes, optical sensors, and military durability drive up the price. You’re paying for real-time clarity when it matters most.

Why are night vision goggles infrared?

Many NVGs include infrared (IR) illuminators to boost visibility in total darkness. Infrared allows you to “see” even when there’s zero ambient light.

Why were night vision goggles invented?

Night vision was developed for tactical superiority—specifically for soldiers to move, see, and strike at night without giving away their position. The first iterations date back to WWII.

Why is night vision red?

Red is used to preserve natural night vision (scotopic vision). Red light keeps your pupils dilated, allowing you to transition from dark to darker without disorientation.

Why are night vision goggles used?

For nighttime operations, surveillance, navigation, hunting, and survival. NVGs give you the advantage when visibility would otherwise be your greatest weakness.

Why is my night vision blurry?

It could be poor focus, dirty lenses, or low-quality tech. Always adjust the diopter, clean your optics, and check that your gear isn’t a Gen 1 clunker from 1995.

Are night vision goggles legal?

Yes, for civilians in the U.S. Just don’t export military-grade gear or use it for illegal hunting—both will land you in hot water.

Are night vision scopes legal?

Yes, in most states. However, laws vary—especially regarding hunting. Always check local regulations.

How does night vision work?

Night vision amplifies ambient light (like moonlight) using an image intensifier tube to create a visible image. Thermal versions detect heat instead of light.

Pro-Tip: Head to our official How Night Vision Works Guide to learn all of the ins and outs of night vision tech.

Are night vision scopes legal in California?

California bans “sniper scopes” or devices with projected infrared beams used for aiming a firearm. But night vision itself is legal if it doesn’t project IR for targeting.

Are night vision goggles infrared?

Some are. Most use ambient light amplification, but many also include built-in IR illuminators for total darkness scenarios.

How are night vision goggles made?

NVGs combine glass lenses, intensifier tubes, photocathodes, microchannel plates, and power sources—all precision-engineered to survive rugged environments.

Where can I buy night vision goggles?

From trusted tactical retailers like Military Mental Endurance, where performance meets affordability.

What night vision does the military use?

The U.S. military typically uses Gen 3 and Gen 4 night vision—ultra-clear, long-lasting, and built to thrive in hostile environments.

What night vision do SEALs use?

SEALs often use GPNVG-18 panoramic NVGs—those four-lens beasts you see in elite ops footage. But those cost more than your truck.

What night vision does the Army use?

Primarily the AN/PVS-14 and AN/PSQ-20, both powerful, rugged Gen 3+ systems.

What night vision does the Marine Corps use?

Marines use the AN/PVS-14 and BNVDs (Binocular Night Vision Devices) with Gen 3 intensifiers for both individual and squad-based night ops.

Who invented night vision?

It was first developed by the Germans in the 1930s and later improved by the U.S. military in WWII. It’s been evolving ever since.

Can night vision see through glass?

Traditional NVGs can see through glass, but thermal night vision struggles, since glass reflects IR radiation rather than transmitting it.

The Best NVGs Out There: Shadow X™ PRO 4K Night Vision Goggles

If you’re ready to stop browsing and start owning the night, look no further than the Shadow X™ PRO 4K Night Vision Goggles. These aren’t toys—they’re 4K Ultra HD, dual-screen, long-range precision machines built for tactical dominance.

Own the Night, No Excuses

Night vision isn’t just tech—it’s tactical advantage. It’s readiness when others rely on luck. Now that you’ve got the answers, it’s time to upgrade your gear, sharpen your edge, and step into the night like you were born for it.

Thanks for stopping by, until next time.
Greg
Author & Founder, MME™