The Pain of Gain

In the world of riflescopes, 'more gain, less strain' is not always the best policy. People who know about these things tell us that in high light conditions some high-gain 2nd generation models can become overloaded by artificial light sources, like street lighting, or even by a bright full moon.

High light conditions may reduce the life of the intensifier tube. A Generation 1 night vision scope might be OK if you will be viewing mainly on moonlit nights or in urban environments.