How to choose the thermal vision case.

January 4, 2022

 

There is no doubt that every hunter wants to ensure his thermal imaging equipment's maximum safety and performance. This article will analyze how to properly store and transport IR optics so that it works for many years. We will also analyze the nuances of choosing a cover for a thermal imager.

Thermal vision device and why it is important to protect it?

Everyone knows that any IR equipment perfectly tolerates any temperature extremes and difficult weather conditions. Thermal camera manufacturers have provided it with the highest degree of protection. Why, then, do you need to protect a thermal imager? The fact is that the lens of the thermal imager is made of a soft alloy that is sensitive to the slightest changes in temperature. It must be protected from scratches, chemicals, hot sources of heat. Naturally, it would never occur to anyone to deliberately scratch the lens of their favorite night vision binoculars. But carelessly wiping sand and dirt off the lens can easily leave scratches on lens. The same defect appears if aggressive cleaning agents are used. Let us draw your attention to the lens's sensitivity to heat sources such as a fire, explosion, and summer sun. If you look at the hot summer sun through a thermal imager for a long time, then the matrix of the device may become unusable. Even light movement of the imager along an open heat source can leave streaks and stains on the screen. Note that this breakdown is not included in the warranty repair category. And replacing the thermal imager matrix is not cheap. Let us highlight that it is necessary to protect the device from children and pets in a separate line. For complete safety, all thermal imaging devices: binoculars, monoculars, sights, and glasses should be stored only in a case.

Main rules of transporting and storing your TVD.

When storing, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the night vision. It lists the permissible humidity, temperature, and storage conditions that apply to your specific thermal imager model. Among the general rules, we note several points. All infrared optics must be stored with the lens cover closed. Remove the battery before storing. If there is any dirt, then gently clean the surfaces with a soft cloth with distilled water. Dry all equipment parts completely before storage. Store in a case in a dry, warm, and ventilated area. If repairs are needed, we resort to the services of professionals. We never disassemble or repair the equipment ourselves. If you have to travel within the country, then we are interested in the rules for the transportation of thermal imaging equipment of the state where we are going. Many states require thermal imaging cameras to be transported in a hard case locked with a lock. When traveling abroad, it is impossible to conduct a thermal imager without authorization documents and a license. As a rule, only the army and international rescue missions can transport any thermal imagers. When organizing hunting outside the country, it is worth considering this information.

Types of TVD cases.

Covers for thermal imaging equipment are hard and soft. Rigid ones are made of durable plastic, composite materials, or aircraft-grade aluminum. Cells of foam or other porous material are formed inside them. The cells can be customized to fit your vision equipment. Thermal imaging binoculars, thermal imaging monocular, or goggles will be reliably protected from shock, water, and dust wherever you go. Hard cases are often equipped with a pressure relief valve for travel in the mountains, hot climates, and overflights. Soft cases are made of nylon or rip-stop. They are lightweight bags with a soft, non-rustling zippered shell. To prevent damage, a thick layer of foam rubber is laid inside. As a rule, all soft cases are protected from moisture and dust. Some models are completely isolated from water and can float on its surface. Lovers of hunting for waterfowl will appreciate this quality of soft covers. The soft cases can be worn on a belt or suspended from a backpack. They will blend in with the landscape, thanks to the camouflage or green color of the case. Each type of cover for thermal imaging equipment has its own merits.

What to look at when choosing a TVD case?

There are several factors to consider when choosing a cover for your thermal imaging equipment. The degree of protection of the case, its weight, noisy or quiet, whether it can be attached to the car, how many items can be put inside - everything will influence your choice. Even the way you get to the hunting area will influence the hull choice. The main trend is that the more severe the conditions, the greater the degree of protection. For one-day hunting in summer and early autumn, a soft cover is suitable. And for many days of winter hunting, a hard case will be more suitable. When flying and traveling to the hunting area, we choose a hard case. And upon arriving at the hunting site, it can be replaced with a soft one. When choosing a hard case, we consider that the undulating ribbed walls will give a more durable case. The handles recessed into the body will be more comfortable. The presence of fasteners to the car and locks will give additional bonuses. It is good if all the accessories of the cover are made of stainless steel. Perhaps you will use more than one type of optics, but several. Then it is advisable to place all the optics in one large case. It can be taken in hand luggage on the plane. In soft cases, we are looking for a lightweight, noiseless during hunting, the comfort of use, and an affordable price. They do not give one hundred percent protection as solid ones, but they are much more comfortable when traveling on foot.

The importance of purchasing the right cover is hard to overestimate. Without it, it is impossible to maintain the warranty on the thermal imager, you cannot travel, and it is impossible to provide one hundred percent protection. In some cases, a hard and soft case combination will be more comfortable than using a single case. With the existing variety of models, you will definitely find the one that will fully satisfy your needs.