TNVC’s Night Fighter 201 class is not a night vision course. It is a low-light/no-light course. It’s less a technique course and more a technology course. Truth be told, it is less of a course and more of a workshop. Students are free to choose their own adventure, but they must justify their actions, as critical thinking builds competence and confidence. Although there was down time between scenarios, there was no shortage of opportunities to learn by talking to other students and instructors. The nature of such a class is such that students get out of the class what they put in.

“Armed Professional,” as the previous iteration of this class was called, combined close quarters battle with night vision. In that class, students tended to focus on CQB and overlook the technology. In this revamped curriculum, no CQB experience is required and no CQB is taught. Students are delivered to a location in the room by instructors with their eyes closed, then asked to collapse their sector of fire without walking about the room. Positive identification is the primary task with which students explore the limitations of each technology.

We attended the second showing of the revamped and renamed Night Fighter 201 class. Our experience is relayed so future students of the class will be ahead of the curve.

POSITIVE IDENTIFICATION

Positive Identification (PID) is the focus and the task used to explore technology limitations. To classify as threat or unknown, students scan the whole person, then focus on their hands, waistband, the immediate area around them, and finally on their demeanor. Targets are identified through a system that differentiates threats from unknowns. Students then go through the sequence and search for clues. Students could game it by merely playing “Where’s Waldo,” but then they only cheat themselves.

We learned that white light complements monochromatic NVGs by providing color and additional illumination. When certain colors fail to show up with sufficient contrast through NVGs, one can emit white light while looking under the goggles (or articulate one pod up) to use unaided vision for PID (hereafter white light bypass). The naked eye also provides color information such as an orange-tipped airsoft gun or the blue shirt of a hostage. To use white light for more information may be a spur-of-the-moment decision, and equipment must support that. A student using an all-in-one Surefire XVL2 (see Small Arms Defense Journal magazine V13 N2) added a separate white light during class because switching from white to IR cannot be done quickly on this light. This shows how the workshop allows discovery of the limitations of our gear.

Another lesson learned is that PID happens at close-range, as NVGs are still non-magnified optics. In a demo, students try to PID an approaching instructor. At 50 meters, neither white light and naked eye nor IR illumination under NVGs provided PID. Around 30 meters, eye-safe IR illumination with NVGs granted PID. Around 25 meters, a high candela white light and naked eye afforded PID. NVGs without illumination gave no PID until the instructor reached bad breath distance. Readers should understand these distances as merely illustrative of the close-range nature of PID, and not as cardinal rules.

EXPECTED ENGAGEMENT DISTANCE

Through failure, we learned to preset our equipment for expected engagement distance before taking each unknown space. This includes both NVG focus and IR illumination.

NVGs are single plane focused devices, and are typically set at infinity for outdoor use such that close objects are a blur. For indoor use, one could focus at room distance, but that definition can change between a bedroom and an auditorium. During the 2014 Sydney Lindt Cafe siege, CCTV showed an assaulter stopping to adjust his NVG focus in the midst of an assault. To set up for expected engagement distance is to set up for success.

Workarounds include “goofy focus” when using binocular NVGs: one tube is focused far and one focused close. When we used this technique, we didn’t experience any headaches, but bright dots such as IR pointers or distant street lamps have a halo around them because one tube is out of focus. For target designators, this can cause imprecise aiming. There also exist devices such as the Phokus Hoplite and the Tarsier Eclipse to increase depth-of-field at the expense of light gathering. These devices are analogous to stopping down a camera aperture from f/2.8 to f/22 so more of the scene is in focus. We used Hoplites in class and could PID room distance targets even though we left our tubes focused at infinity. The last option is to white light bypass at the expense of pointing out your location to opposing forces.

Laser aiming modules (LAMs) must also be preset for success. Pointers set too bright will bloom and cause imprecise aiming; set too low and they will be invisible. Illuminators must also be set for punching through photonic barriers, illuminating a wide area, or throwing energy into a deep dark corner. Most LAMs have a diffuser flip cap to spread the illuminator beam (10 deg or so), into a wide flood beam (40+ deg) for use in typical rooms. We found it faster to process the room with the rifle at low ready and letting the spill illuminate the room, rather than sweeping the beam across everything he wanted to examine. This increased situational awareness and processing speed costs PID range as the dispersed energy cannot reach deep into corners. Hallways and large rooms may require no diffuser to increase throw distance. During a hallway scenario, we left our diffuser on and could not PID targets. We resorted to white light for additional illumination since we could not remove the diffuser on the fly.

LAMs such as the Steiner. Optics DBAL and the L3Harris ATPIAL have a rotary selector to increase power output, but it cannot be ergonomically actuated on the fly. The B.E. Meyers MAWL’s mode switch suffers the same, but its A/B buttons allow effortless illuminator output modification (in some modes). However, note that room entry mode with pointer and illuminator is “short range, B button” while A-button-only emits a pointer. Increasing illuminator power still requires manipulating the mode switch to “mid range.” One should carefully plan out their switchology and vet the choices through exercises.

VALUE OF VISIBLE OVERRIDE

Generally speaking, rifles can be configured for two of the three shooting methods: active (emitting IR pointer and/or illumination), passive (no emission, just aim down sights), or white light (emitting visible illumination). Typical LAM supports active shooting. A weapon light and reflex (or “holographic”) sight set to daylight brightness allows white light shooting. When shooting passive, a red dot in your sight set to daylight-level brightness creates bloom that causes imprecise aim and could even hide the target. Dimming the reticle to NV setting fixes this, but it becomes invisible when using white light. Alas, there is no free lunch.

An optic with an etched reticle allows both passive and white light shooting, but the shooter’s head position is awkward and critical in passive shooting. Since the front objective of NVG effectively replaces the eyeball, one must place that within the optical eyebox of the optic. This requires an increase in length-of-pull (typically six inches) that can degrade rifle handling and accessory activation.

LAMs capable of visible override allow users to shoot with all three methods on the same setup. When paired with a compatible remote switch, LAM emits a visible pointer when white light is fired, even if the mode switch is set to IR. This gives a seamless transition from IR active to white light shooting. The user is still aiming with a pointer, and with roughly the same mechanical offset. There is no need to acquire the reticle. One merely bypasses the NVGs and continues to solve problems. Meanwhile, the optic can be left in NV mode for passive shooting. We found this feature extremely helpful not only in engaging targets, but also in communicating with teammates using the visible spectrum. We could “air lasso” open doors or dead spaces to ask for help, and even conduct common hallway checks (not covered in NF201) without taking his hand off the rifle to switch into LAM mode.

As of writing this story, only the Steiner DBAL-A3, -A4, LA-23, and Wilcox RAID-X provide this feature. The Unity Tactical TAPS DBAL, TAPS NGAL, and Modlite ModButton Lite (dual lead) switches complement the first three LAMs. We’re not aware of switches for the RAID-X.

LIMITATION OF PASSIVE AIMING

When practicing alone, we got comfortable shooting passive using the NV mode of a Trijicon RMR for a crisp reticle. During team firing exercises, other students used active aiming, and their emissions washed out our aiming dot. The lowest daylight setting must be used, but bloom obscured the low contrast target. To make problems worse, students were shooting from supported positions such that their pointers and our own dot did not move much. We were forced to shake our rifle in order to discern own downrange reticle.

These problems stem from multiple teammates engaging the same target with different aiming methods. Passive aiming works great if no one uses active aiming. If active, multiple stationary pointers can cause confusion. Practice with teammates is needed to discover and mitigate these issues.

CLOSING

Night Fighter 101 (see SADJ Vol. 13 No. 5) introduces technologies and techniques. Night Fighter 201 is a workshop to experiment with those technologies. Limitations are learned and overcome to build confidence and competence.

Each student chooses his own adventure with his own justification. Each inevitably learns different lessons. Author’s own lessons are offered here so prospective students have a leg up. But there is no replacement for learn-by-doing. Author gained valuable lessons and wholeheartedly recommends this workshop to any night fighter serious in his craft.

Trijicon Introduces Tough Mini Reflex Sights

Trijicon, Inc., the world leader in the development of Brilliant Aiming Solutions for the military, law enforcement and hunting/shooting markets, has introduced its new Trijicon RMR Sight – a patent-pending new generation Ruggedized Miniature Reflex designed to improve shooter precision and accuracy with any style or caliber of weapon. Unlike other red dot sights on the market, this innovative solution is designed for superior durability under the most extreme conditions. Trijicon also designed the new RMR sights to be as strong as the company’s renowned Trijicon ACOGs, and provide ease of sighting and adjustment, solving important issues often associated with other red dot sights. Trijicon’s new design begins with a rugged, forged aluminum housing – one that is extremely sturdy, yet lightweight. This advanced housing encases premium quality optics for superior performance in every tactical, shooting or hunting situation. Other advancements in the Trijicon RMR sights include new large, easy-to-use adjusters that allow for quick one MOA per click adjustment for windage and elevation using a common screw driver or shell casing. The Trijicon RMR provides rapid target acquisition and enhances the shooter’s capabilities in a wide variety of applications. In keeping with Trijicon’s commitment to battery-free illumination, a battery-free model features dual illumination using Trijicon’s patented fiber optics and tritium, and comes in dot sizes of 9 or 13 Minutes of Angle (MOA). This model is the world’s first battery-free mini reflex sight, measuring a mere 1.78 inches long by 1.24 inches wide by 1.03 inches high and weighs in at only 1.22 ounces. Another version features LED illumination provided by a standard 2032 battery, and comes in dot sizes of 4 or 8 MOA. Both are available in black housings and, as further testament to their rugged construction, are rated as waterproof to sixty-six feet. The Trijicon RMR mounts onto Trijicon ACOGs, compact ACOGs, AccuPoints, Mil-Std 1913 rail equipped weapons systems, Weaver rail equipped weapons systems and the more popular handgun models. For more information please contact Trijicon Inc., Dept. SAR, 49385 Shafer Avenue, P.O. Box 930059, Wixom, MI 48393. Phone: (248) 960-7700. Fax: (248) 960-7725. Their website is www.trijicon.com.

New Products from Tactical Night Vision Company

Tactical Night Vision Company (TNVC) is now offering several new night vision related products that have been long awaited by consumers. The first is their new PT-HELMETS A-Alpha Jump Rated Helmets. The A-Alpha is an affordable, lightweight tactical helmet designed for Military and Law Enforcement special operations. Available in three sizes (S-M-L) and three non-reflective matte colors (Black, Tan and OD), it features a removable ACH 4-point chin strap that provides the wearer a more stable NVG platform. The A-Alpha is pre-drilled for both single and 3-hole pattern NVG shrouds, giving the user complete freedom to use any shroud on the market. The shell is expanded polystyrene with removable EVA foam padding, meets EN1078, ASTM1040, and is HALO/HAHO jump rated. The A-Alpha comes with a hard mounted Picatinny rail on the left for accessory attachment, pile tape patch on the right for flag or morale patches and a goggle retention strap on the back. It can be ordered bare, with shroud or ready to go with shroud and flip-up Rhino arm.

The next item is called the MURLM (Multi-Use Rail and Light Mount). This innovative mount allows the mounting of a light and a mini red dot sight. The light mount is for 1 inch diameter lights and positions them right by the users thumb when using a forward mount vertical grip. The rail of the MURLM positions the sight at a 45° angle off of the right side of the weapon. This allows the user to simply roll the rifle slightly to the left and utilize the red dot for close-in engagements. The MURLM can also be ordered bare or with a light and mini red dot already mounted. TNVC also has two new scope accessory ring rails that allow mounting accessories right to a scope. For more information on these as well as a full line of night vision optics and accessories, please contact them at Tactical Night Vision Company, Dept. SAR, 25612 Barton Road # 328, Loma Linda, CA 92354. Phone: (909) 659-2842. Visit websiteat: www.tacticalnightvision.com.

DoubleStar Unveils New 1911

Accuracy, reliability and American pride are qualities that DoubleStar builds into each of its many AR-15 offerings. Now, the Kentucky-based manufacturer is bringing those same attributes down to size by building them into its first-ever handgun. The handgun uses only American-made components and retails for less than $1,200. DoubleStar started with a forged – not cast – steel frame to ensure maximum strength and accuracy. Forging produces a stronger frame by aligning the grain structure of the steel, whereas the annealing and heat-treating of casting may strengthen steel, but it still leaves hard and soft spots in the metal. DoubleStar’s 1911 offers a parkerized, mil-spec finish and 1913 rail for laser, light and scope attachments. At 8 inches in length and 38 ounces unloaded, the handgun features a 5 inch stainless steel barrel and a Novak white dot sight. The 1911 is standard with National Match stainless barrel, Greider trigger and Ed Brown’s Memory Grip Safety. Grips are available in Ergo, Stryder, standard, fancy walnut and even exotic woods. The magazine capacity is 8 plus 1, and the magwell is beveled for an easier, quicker load. DoubleStar’s 1911 is also available with a round or square trigger guard. For more information contact DoubleStar, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 430, Winchester, KY 40391. Phone: (859) 745-1757. Fax: (859) 745-4638. Visit website at: www.jtdistributing.com.

New PolyTac Tactical Flashlights from Streamlight

Streamlight, Inc., a leading flashlight manufacturer for law enforcement, military and tactical users, has introduced two super-bright, polymer personal lights: the Streamlight PolyTac, featuring a high-performance xenon incandescent bulb, and the Streamlight PolyTac LED with the latest in C4 power LED technology. Their compact size, combined with their strong, tough polymer casing and high light output make both lights perfect for a wide variety of law enforcement and tactical uses. The LED version uses a power LED that provides two to three times the output of Super High Flux LEDs, and the xenon model offers super-bright light as well. Whether used on night-time patrols, investigations, or just carried in a back pocket or holster, these small but tough tactical lights are ideal for police, and military and tactical personnel to carry. The incandescent xenon PolyTac offers a light output of 6,000 candela peak beam intensity and 72 lumens measured system output, while the LED model offers 4,800 candela peak beam intensity and 120 lumens measured system output. The PolyTac model uses a 6-volt xenon bulb, and the LED version features a C4 LED bulb that is impervious to shock with a 50,000 hour lifetime. The xenon model also offers an adjustable head which allows for variable spot-to-flood focus. The xenon version provides 80 minutes of continuous runtime to the 10% output level, and the LED version offers 3 hours of continuous runtime to the 10% output level. The PolyTac weighs 3.9 oz while the PolyTac LED weighs 4.1 oz. Both lights measure 5.22 inches in length and 1.25 inches in diameter. Both the PolyTac and PolyTac LED feature bodies made of high impact, super tough nylon polymer for exceptional durability and a sure grip. Each light features a tailcap push button switch for easy, one-handed operation. The tailcap also can be rotated to a “Safe” position. Both lights use two 3-volt lithium batteries, which have a shelf life of 10 years. Available in black, coyote or yellow, the PolyTac retails for $52 and the PolyTac LED for $65. The light comes with Streamlight’s limited lifetime warranty. For more information please contact Streamlight, Inc., Dept. SAR, 30 Eagleville Road, Eagleville, PA 19403. Phone: (610) 631-0600. Fax: (610) 631-0712. Visit website at: www.streamlight.com.

New Ruger Mini-14 LULA Strip Clip Loader

The LULA Strip Loader was an instant hit with avid shooters who purchase surplus ammo on stripper clips. For 2009, Butler Creek introduces a Strip Loader for Mini-14 rifles. This lightweight strip clip loaders makes it easy and painless to load magazines from clips. You can also load loose rounds and a built-in tab makes unloading rounds a quick and simple operation. Like most LULA loaders, it is small, lightweight and simple to use. It is made from a durable, reinforced polymer plastic, about 1/3 the size of similar loaders and will fit easily into a range bag or pocket. With a little practice, a shooter can load 30 rounds in about 12 seconds. Suggested retail is $29.95. For more information please contact them at Bushnell Outdoor Products, Dept. SAR, 9200 Cody, Overland Park, KS 66214. Phone: (913) 752-3400. Fax: (913) 752-3550. Website: www.butlercreek.com.