Evening Digital Fans -
I have been wanting to tackle the doubler project on the n750 for quite awhile, I received a Dr. Bob's doubler kit in the mail which requires no modifications whatsoever to the Digisight scope - so the warranty stays intact.
I bought a used Sony 1.7x telephoto lens from B&H Photo and a Polaroid 2.2x lens to get an idea what a cheaper lens could do. Unfortunately I was unable to get my hands on the Pulsar/Yukon 1.7x lens which the Dr. Bob's kit also supports.
So without further delay, click on the text below to see the video review:
VIDEO REVIEWWritten summary of the video is as follows:
The doubler is an additional lens in front of the native lens of the Digisight. With this type of configuration you are limiting the amount of lens surface area which ultimately reduces the amount of light gathering coming into the image sensor.
Adding the doubler increases overall weight of the weapon's platform, I chose to go with the AR15 to attempt to keep overall weight below 10 lbs. Scanning via a handheld monocular is alot easier than scanning with the gun. You also will increase the overall length of the scope system so bear in mind what your hunting positions are with regards to blind window or hunting vehicle window clearances.
Pros:
Sony lens continues to shine as top pick for a doubler setup.
Increase of base magnification from 4.5x to 7.65x (use of digital zoom tops you out at 11.5x).
A clearer and sharper image results from adding the quality Sony lens in front of the Pulsar's native lens.
Repeatable zero if you use a thread locking agent to set the lens and adaptor in place.
The Dr. Bob's kit does not void your factory warranty and installation is so easy, even a Caveman.... Nevermind
Cons:
Polaroid Lens is a non-starter.
Added weight and length to the scope and gun.
Reduced light gathering which results in a darker image at night. I can tell you that the difference IS significant and that a high power/output IR illuminator will be needed to offset the loss of objective lens real estate.
Added money to increase magnification.
Change in Point of Impact, I experienced a 6 inch shift left from original zero (no doubler).
With the exposed Sony lens you may have to augment the way in which you transport the gun, a stiff whack to the side of the lens would probably result in an altered zero. I cut out the foam in a RedHead gun case to prevent issues during transport however when your in the field you will need to be extra cautious with carrying the gun through brush and over terrain.
Final Thoughts - I am going to keep the doubler on for a few months to see how I like it. I really like the increased clarity and feel confident that 200 yards is still achievable for making a clean shot with the onboard IR laser illuminator. I will update with hunting videos come Aug/Sept.
Happy Hunting!!!BB
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