I have opted for an "Archer" model from Starlight NV in Manchester, this model can be used either as a hand held monocular or can be fitted via an adapter to the ocular bell of a standard scope with parallax adjustment.
Fitting of the unit was relatively simple however adrenalin takes over and simple errors that seem obvious when you look at them can creep in. (more about those errors later)
The focus ring on the eyepiece needs adjusting to give a sharp crosshair prior to clamping the adaptor into place and when positioning the adapter you need to remember that you twist the archer into position when it locks on. So schoolboy error 1 is to remember to allow for approx 15 degrees of twist or the unit sits at the 2 o clock position rather than vertical.
- adaptor showing the bayonet style fitting
Once the adapter is positioned and tightened you can simply push the archer into place and twist to lock.
- archer in position
I waited until dusk to have a quick peek through it (resisting the dark airing cupboard option) and spent a quarter of an hour making schoolboy errors 2 & 3 and possibly a few more that im not going to own up to.
I sat the rifle on the bonnet of my landrover, pointing toward the bell tower of the local church (approx 150 yards), turned the unit and the illuminator on and took a peek.
Absolutely f**k all, fuzzy darkness was all I could see. Here was schoolboy error 2... lift the front flip up cover on the scope. Lifted the cover and I could see a vague image but not the image that I was expecting. Here was schoolboy error number three because I had now lifted the cover up so it was blocking the IR illuminator. So took off the front flip up cover and turned it through 90 degrees so that it was out of the way.
For the third time I took a peek and there was the bell tower in full darkness to the naked eye.. but in full sharp focus and lit up like fair ride through the scope.
I took the unit back indoors and took a few more images prior to going for a quick spin.
Unfortunately I didn't see any foxes but the archer was simply excellent, if I had taken the 17hmr or the 22rf I could have shot loads of alternatives, however this was only a test run.
I will be making a modification to my stock to allow for the new head position, you quickly get used to it but i dont like having the rifle away from my shoulder. If anyone is interested I will post some details of this kit once it is finished.
Tonight I will take the 17hmr with its own adapter fitted and the 223 and if anyone is interested I can post how we get on.
Onelesscharlie
