Phantom Hill CTF-1 vs Surefire Vampire + Steiner OTAL-C IR vs DBAL I2 9007

Published on December 12, 2021
Duration: 2:05

This video compares the performance of three IR devices: the Surefire Vampire with Steiner OTAL-C, the Phantom Hill CTF-1, and the DBAL I2 9007. It highlights the limitations of civilian-power IR illuminators in reaching beyond 100 yards, contrasting them with civilian-power IR lasers that can reach over 400 yards. The DBAL I2 is noted for its more usable illumination pattern, offering a focused beam that can be adjusted for wider spill at close range.

Quick Summary

Civilian-power IR lasers can reach beyond 400 yards, while civilian IR illuminators are limited to approximately 100 yards. The DBAL I2 9007 provides a more usable, focused illumination pattern that can be adjusted for wider spill at close range, unlike the broad splash of many LED illuminators.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Device Overview
  2. 00:21Surefire Vampire + Steiner OTAL-C Test
  3. 00:29Long Range Illumination Test
  4. 00:51Road Illumination Test
  5. 01:14DBAL I2 9007 Performance
  6. 01:19Final Road Test and Limitations
  7. 01:43DBAL I2 Usability and Focus
  8. 02:00Conclusion and Upcoming Review

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the effective range of civilian-power IR lasers compared to illuminators?

Civilian-power IR lasers can effectively reach beyond 400 yards, making them suitable for long-range illumination and aiming. In contrast, civilian-based IR illuminators typically have a much shorter effective range, often not exceeding 100 yards.

How does the DBAL I2 9007's illumination pattern compare to flood-based LED illuminators?

The DBAL I2 9007 offers a more focused illumination pattern, which is considered more usable for tactical applications. Flood-based LED illuminators tend to produce a wide splash, which can be beneficial for CQB but less ideal for longer distances.

Can the DBAL I2's illuminator be adjusted for different scenarios?

Yes, the DBAL I2's illuminator can be unfocused to provide more spill, which is useful for close-range engagements where a wider field of illumination is needed. This adjustability enhances its versatility.

What are the limitations of LED-based IR illuminators for tactical use?

LED-based IR illuminators, while powerful, often suffer from excessive spill that illuminates foreground objects heavily and catches light on surrounding trees or obstacles. This wide illumination can reduce the effective range for identifying targets at a distance.

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