First month with the Nitesite NS200

[RangerDave]

Hi guys,

I bought an NS200 about a month ago and would like to share my findings with you so far!

First of all, I have been involved in keepering (but not now) and shooting most of my life, so know my way round guns and scopes, do a lot of research, then purchase the right gun for the job.

The rifles I use are a Sako .223 with Nightforce NSX 5.5-22x50, a modified Anschutz 1416D .22 with a Hawke Sport HD 4-12x50 and a Falcon FN12 .177 also with a Hawke Sport HD but a 3-9x40.

I have had both the Sako and Anschutz for over 24 years, the Falcon for around 12!

I had a great chat with Dave of Nitesite at the Midland fair and even got to try it out in their demo tunnel, also looked at the Laser Genetics ND3, but I just couldn't imagine it being usable past 100 yards!

I was initially concerned with fitting the Nitesite to the Nightforce, the lens coatings do affect the IR capability of the camera a bit, but it is still usable. The large scope sleeve was a very tight fit and because the NSX has a longer than usual eye relief, it was a bit wobbly too.

Fixing this was quite simple in the end, I spotted in B&Q the other day a black 40mm PP Coupler and a 35mm reducer, take the O ring and retainer off one end of the coupler, get some sandpaper or a sharp knife and ease the inside edge slightly and slip it onto the eyepiece, it's a tight fit but it doesn't budge once on! Slide the reducer onto the camera and slip that into the coupler to the desired distance, got to be cheaper than the DSA?

As others have also found here, I do get some in scope glare at certain magnifications, I have a slimline PES moderator with a neoprene cover, and found the NSX a lot better with a 3" sunshade fitted, and keeping the mag down to around 10x, plus a little bit of insulation tape covering the bottom quarter of the objective (just like Grandalf has done) no idea why this works, but it does!

So far this combo has shot at 14 fox between 40 and 180 yards......and all accounted for!

LCD screen glare was a problem, but Nitesite have kindly sent me some filters which really help, being seen by your quarry was never really an issue (had one fox almost run into my legs after a short mouse squeak!) but the eyestrain was a bit much to bare, as whenever you switched the thing on and off you lost your night vision!

I should explain that I also use another great bit of kit, and one that I have seen few others using, and that is the brilliant little Olight M40 Crimson torch, 150mm of pure dynamite for foxing. It runs off 2 CR123A batteries and emits a dull red beam that visibly only goes out about 100 yards and doesn't spook your quarry, but it will pick up fox eye-shine out to 350+. I have walked up to rabbits, deer, Badgers and Tawny's with the Olight shining right at them (admittedly from downwind) and they took no notice! Obviously the fox or any other quarry has to looking in roughly your direction, but there is no mistake when a fox looks at you, their eyes are far brighter than anything else out there!

I was out on my friends farm in Gloucestershire the other week, and I scanned a large grass field with a large herd of sheep in it with the Olight, from the hundred or so eyes that shone back at me, I could easily make out 2 sets that were foxes out at around 270 yards.

Switching the Olight off and moving into a better and closer position, I set up a pad on the ground to sit on and got the rifle set up on the long bipod, turned on the Nitesite and did a quick scan, they were still there and oblivious to me being there. The Vixen moved up near the wood so I took her at 180, while the dog meandered off to the left, looking not bothered in the slightest, eventually giving me a broadside at 170. I wouldn't say that their bodies stood out, especially against the long grass, but there was enough contrast to make each shot with the brilliant NP-2DD reticle illuminated

Fitting the Nitesite to other rifles/scopes has been quite a challenge, couldn't get a good focus from the Hawke 4-12x at 10-75 yard rats, but it didn't stop me from shooting a dozen, and the Hawke 3-9x fairs a little better, but I can see myself changing both for 2 side focus models.

I have a friend who was interested in the NS200 for his 3 rifles, but we couldn't fit it on any of them successfully, a Leopold, a Schmidt & Bender and a Z6i Swarovski. I wont go into why right now, still a work on it!

We did shoot some rats with his rimfire and Leopold, shooting out his truck passenger window, I held the forend and camera to the scope, while he steadied the stock and pulled the trigger, quite a fiasco really, but 17 rats for 19 shots between 6 and 75 yards wasn't a bad go?

The best picture I've seen so far is through a Nikko Stirling Mountmaster 4-12x50 mounted on my dads BSA R10, unfortunately it has an AO Parallax adjuster, and I'm looking for something with a side knob adjuster, preferably in the 4-16x50 range and not too expensive anyone have any recommendations that work well down to close ranges and afar with the Nitesite, please let me know?

I have purchased a JDX 990 recorder and a 12v CCTV rechargeable battery, which seem to work but not used in anger yet, will be interesting to see how that goes?

Have also been looking into some way of streaming the video straight to my android smartphone, but coming up a blank! :(

Anyway, that's my first month with the Nitesite, and I haven't had so much fun in years, it truly brings another dimension to night shooting and Wiley old fox had better invest in some radar!

Thanks for reading and hope there is something of interest for you, it is a great piece of kit for the price and still a work in progress, and that's half the fun!

I wish Dave and Jake all the best, and hope they take note of all this user info in forums like this, and maybe feed it into the Mk2?

[steve_b_wales]

Glad you like the NS200. I have one and it's excellent. I've yet to put it to 'proper' use, but did manage to shoot a rabbit at 132 yards, with a 22-250. I was'nt bothered about the damage to the rabbit, but more to the range that the unit allowed me to 'see'.

[RangerDave]

Yes, I saw that, does the Kahles lens coatings hinder the sight picture much, and which of your scopes seem to give the best picture? (I'm interested because I want to video some of my shooting!)

So far, so good, I really like it and is ideal for pretty much all the quarry that is usually a bit tetchy, I've managed to get a couple of foxes on my friends shoot that they've been after for ages, only getting a glimpse once in a while with the lamp, then their off.

One evenings walk by myself, I sneak around checking once in a while with the Olight, spot where they are, get into a good position and set up, either sitting or standing, both with a bipod or fence post etc.switch on, and sometimes I might have to have a little squeak, and they seem to be more interested than normal, as there was no bright light shining around (the Olight is hardly noticeable) had a few come like steam trains, had to shout at them to stop, most so far have been under 80 yards, which is great as they are very visible at this range and harder to miss!

[boo]

Work really well on simmons wtc a/o scope...

[RangerDave]

I read that somewhere else too boo, maybe it was you? Only thing is, it doesn't have side focus, and I've found that is a godsend especially if I'm going to video future shooting trips!

Edited October 15, 2012 by RangerDave

[mick miller]

The Mtc Genesis is simply superb with the ns200. It isn't a too shabby scope in the daytime either.

 

I never go beyond 10x mag, and have fitted a stock mounted Deben li-ion battery, my own stock mounted on/off switch and custom filter, which is way better than the ones you get from nitesite (by their own admission).

Edited October 16, 2012 by mick miller

[steve_b_wales]

Yes, I saw that, does the Kahles lens coatings hinder the sight picture much, and which of your scopes seem to give the best picture? (I'm interested because I want to video some of my shooting!)

So far, so good, I really like it and is ideal for pretty much all the quarry that is usually a bit tetchy, I've managed to get a couple of foxes on my friends shoot that they've been after for ages, only getting a glimpse once in a while with the lamp, then their off.

One evenings walk by myself, I sneak around checking once in a while with the Olight, spot where they are, get into a good position and set up, either sitting or standing, both with a bipod or fence post etc.switch on, and sometimes I might have to have a little squeak, and they seem to be more interested than normal, as there was no bright light shining around (the Olight is hardly noticeable) had a few come like steam trains, had to shout at them to stop, most so far have been under 80 yards, which is great as they are very visible at this range and harder to miss!

 

The Kahles scope, although multi coated like most quality scopes, did not affect the sight picture, as far as I'm concerned. The reticule was slightly 'blurry', but I could see it enough to be able to put the centre of it onto the rabbit, albeit it's body and not it's head. I've also tried the NS200 with my S&B Zenith, and this is good too.

[steve_b_wales]

The Mtv Genesis is simply superb with the ns200. It isn't a too shabby scope in the daytime either.

 

I never go beyond 10x mag, and have fitted a stock mounted Seven li-ion battery, my own stock mounted on/off switch and custom filter, which is way better than the ones you get from nitesite (by their own admission).

 

 

I've got a MTC Genesis on my .17HMR, and this does improve the sharpness of the reticule,when using it with my NS200. I have'nt been out in the 'field' with the HMR & NS yet, but will do so in the near future.

[andypaint]

The Mtc Genesis is simply superb with the ns200. It isn't a too shabby scope in the daytime either.

 

I never go beyond 10x mag, and have fitted a stock mounted Deben li-ion battery, my own stock mounted on/off switch and custom filter, which is way better than the ones you get from nitesite (by their own admission).

 

Hi, just wondering, how and what you used for the filter. I've been looking into it but can't decide what to use.

Cheers.

[RangerDave]

The Mtc Genesis is simply superb with the ns200. It isn't a too shabby scope in the daytime either.

 

I never go beyond 10x mag, and have fitted a stock mounted Deben li-ion battery, my own stock mounted on/off switch and custom filter, which is way better than the ones you get from nitesite (by their own admission).

 

Mick, I'd also like to know what you use for your custom filter?

Edited October 16, 2012 by RangerDave

[Dave-G]

This got me over my front AO adjusting issues. It's only a short clip but gets the story across:

 

[mick miller]

I use a 3M privacy filter cut to size with a window tint added (can't remember the percentage but the posts are on here someplace). A few of the lads on here bought one of me (cost covered post and materials) to use and I think they pretty much agree with my findings. The 3M filter cuts out most of the bleed from either side, the screen is only fully visible when you're standing behind the unit.

 

Only trouble is the 3M filter is a little pricey and you only end up using a small amount of it.

Edited October 16, 2012 by mick miller

[luckytrigger]

I use a 3M privacy filter cut to size with a window tint added (can't remember the percentage but the posts are on here someplace). A few of the lads on here bought one of me (cost covered post and materials) to use and I think they pretty much agree with my findings. The 3M filter cuts out most of the bleed from either side, the screen is only fully visible when you're standing behind the unit.

 

Only trouble is the 3M filter is a little pricey and you only end up using a small amount of it.

 

I totally agree Mick.

Im still using the m3 filter i purchased from you some time ago and its by far the best filter material ive used on the ns200 (thanks Mick ). As for scopes ive used several on various rifles including hawke Panoramas and have now settled on side parrallex mtc scopes. An mtc viper 4-16x50 on my 22lr and a mamba lite 4-16x44 on my hmr. Shooting off sticks the sidewheel parallex is especially useful and i also get a very good clear image with these scopes.

Edited October 16, 2012 by luckytrigger

[RangerDave]

Thanks Mick, am looking into the 3M filter and window tint, sounds like a great idea.

I will say though, the other week when shooting rats from my mates truck, there was another feed bin 10 yards behind us, and every once in a while I would hang the rifle out the window and take a look through the Nitesight, almost like shooting round a corner, was quite handy to be able to shoot any that were there without having to be directly behind the rifle, was slightly awkward but effective, I'm thinking that the 3M might make the odd attempt at this slightly more difficult?

I suppose I could always mount the 3M the other way round, so the louvers lay horizontal not vertical!

My new 12v 6800 mAh battery has just arrived, a lot smaller than I was expecting, should fit in the cheek pad ammo pouch nicely!

Things are coming together nicely!

[RangerDave]

I totally agree Mick.

Im still using the m3 filter i purchased from you some time ago and its by far the best filter material ive used on the ns200 (thanks Mick ). As for scopes ive used several on various rifles including hawke Panoramas and have now settled on side parrallex mtc scopes. An mtc viper 4-16x50 on my 22lr and a mamba lite 4-16x44 on my hmr. Shooting off sticks the sidewheel parallex is especially useful and i also get a very good clear image with these scopes.

 

 

I must admit, the MTC range of scopes are looking promising at the moment, and could probably fit all three of my rifles with them for the price of my Nightforce, as I had a mare focusing it last night.............. would hate to see it go though!

[steve_b_wales]

Hi Dave. I bought the battery that you have just received, from the same supplier. The first one burnt out inside, and the second one that I had as a replacement, does'nt hold it's charge. I ended up getting a full refund(via Paypal)

I hope that you don't experience the same problems as I did. Good Luck.

[RangerDave]

Hi Dave. I bought the battery that you have just received, from the same supplier. The first one burnt out inside, and the second one that I had as a replacement, does'nt hold it's charge. I ended up getting a full refund(via Paypal)

I hope that you don't experience the same problems as I did. Good Luck.

 

Well, for £20 I thought it was worth the try, time will tell!

[steve_b_wales]

Well, for £20 I thought it was worth the try, time will tell!

 

 

That's why I bought it. I may have been unlucky and received two from a bad batch. It's a shame, because for the short time I used them, they were excellent, and, like you, I fitted the battery into a stock pouch.

 

I've also bought a JXD990 media player to (hopefully) record some of my shooting. This is a Youtube clip that shows someone using one with a NV monocular

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbWIR9YcpJk

 

I'm not sure how to put the recorded material onto a DVD though? I also found that the leads supplied with the JXD990 are not suitable to fit into the NS200, so I ordered this one from Amazon.

http://www.amazon.co...ils_o00_s00_i00

 

 

Steve.

[luckytrigger]

That's why I bought it. I may have been unlucky and received two from a bad batch. It's a shame, because for the short time I used them, they were excellent, and, like you, I fitted the battery into a stock pouch.

 

I've also bought a JXD990 media player to (hopefully) record some of my shooting. This is a Youtube clip that shows someone using one with a NV monocular

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbWIR9YcpJk

 

I'm not sure how to put the recorded material onto a DVD though? I also found that the leads suuplied with the JXD990 are not suitable to fit into the NS200, so I ordered this one from Amazon.

http://www.amazon.co...ils_o00_s00_i00

 

 

Steve.

 

Steve we think alike!

ive also just bought a dvr for my ns200 but its an Angel eye model off evilbay. It takes sd cards and its just a case of plugging the card into the pc and with the dvr programme installed off the disc that came with it its easy to transfer the footage. Im also hoping its easy to get some vids on youtube .

I bought the correct sony type camcorder lead form Maplins a bit pricey at £12 but it definatley works as it had arrived today and i could not wait to get my sweaty hands on it! All i now have to do is take it out and shoot some bunnies!

Mick

[luckytrigger]

Thanks Mick, am looking into the 3M filter and window tint, sounds like a great idea.

I will say though, the other week when shooting rats from my mates truck, there was another feed bin 10 yards behind us, and every once in a while I would hang the rifle out the window and take a look through the Nitesight, almost like shooting round a corner, was quite handy to be able to shoot any that were there without having to be directly behind the rifle, was slightly awkward but effective, I'm thinking that the 3M might make the odd attempt at this slightly more difficult?

I suppose I could always mount the 3M the other way round, so the louvers lay horizontal not vertical!

My new 12v 6800 mAh battery has just arrived, a lot smaller than I was expecting, should fit in the cheek pad ammo pouch nicely!

Things are coming together nicely!

 

Nice link for the ammo pouch I have just velcro'd mine on for now but i may have to purchase that nice looking pouch.

[steve_b_wales]

Steve we think alike!

ive also just bought a dvr for my ns200 but its an Angel eye model off evilbay. It takes sd cards and its just a case of plugging the card into the pc and with the dvr programme installed off the disc that came with it its easy to transfer the footage. Im also hoping its easy to get some vids on youtube .

I bought the correct sony type camcorder lead form Maplins a bit pricey at £12 but it definatley works as it had arrived today and i could not wait to get my sweaty hands on it! All i now have to do is take it out and shoot some bunnies!

Mick

 

Hi Mick. Good luck with your shooting/filming.

[RangerDave]

That's why I bought it. I may have been unlucky and received two from a bad batch. It's a shame, because for the short time I used them, they were excellent, and, like you, I fitted the battery into a stock pouch.

 

I've also bought a JXD990 media player to (hopefully) record some of my shooting. This is a Youtube clip that shows someone using one with a NV monocular

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbWIR9YcpJk

 

I'm not sure how to put the recorded material onto a DVD though? I also found that the leads suuplied with the JXD990 are not suitable to fit into the NS200, so I ordered this one from Amazon.

http://www.amazon.co...ils_o00_s00_i00

 

 

Steve.

 

I've had a little problem sourcing a lead to connect my JDX 990, as the 3.5mm jack connectors are 4 pin (or pole) and most leads are just headphone stereo ones which are 3 pin (or 3 pole)

So far managed to connect 2 leads together which join with the standard red, white and yellow phono plugs, a bit clunky but it gets the job done!

Connecting to the JDX was also problematic, as when you insert the 3.5mm jack pin into it fully, I just get a blue screen, only when I pull it out slightly (about 3mm) do I get a picture, crazy!!

So far so good with the battery, looks like it came with a charge in it, and have been using it today for an hour or so to try and get a common focus point for all 4 of the rifles I will be using it on, managed it eventually with lots of perseverance, and noticed a really handy trick.

The battery comes with it's own on/off switch, so the Nitesite can be left turned on at your favorite setting, and is instantly ready when needed with the "silent" switch on the battery, saves all that clicking when you've got a jumpy fox in front of you!

Not sure if this will limit the life of the IR LED's in the lamp, but LED's being what they are, hopefully it shouldn't be a problem!