The simplest way to improve the performance of night vision is, of course, to use a laser infrared illuminator. The X-Hog 01 illuminator with a wavelength of 850 nm has a stepless zoom adjustment and a replaceable VCSEL laser diode, which has low power consumption and a perfectly symmetrical light beam with a range of more than 1000 m. Also unlike illuminators with a classic laser diode, the VCSEL diode does not heat up intensively during operation.

• lightweight T60601 aluminum construction resistant to damage and weather conditions
• HA-III hard anodizing finish
• silent rotary switch for changing the stream
• LED battery level indicator
• 3W VCSEL laser diode to reduce illuminator heating and ensure low power consumption
• long and symmetrical beam of infrared light with a range of more than 1000 m
• extendable head with zoom (variable focal length) adjustment
• convex glass lens
• double-sided hook for a lanyard
• waterproof class IPX6
• possibility of easy replacement of the diode module

The illuminator uses a VCSEL (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser) diode with a wavelength of 850 nm. This wavelength means that the illuminator light can effectively support a night vision sight, without scaring the game or being visible to other hunting participants.

The VCSEL diode used is characterized by low temperature dependence of the emitted wavelengths and good current-optical efficiency. An important feature of the VCSEL diode is the low temperature dependence of the emitted waves. Unlike ordinary led emitters, 3 watts of power is sufficient to power the VCSEL diode, so the illuminator does not get excessively hot during use. It is worth noting that in the X-Hog 01 laser illuminator we can easily and, most importantly, replace the laser diode module ourselves.

The 850 nm infrared radiation has a long range - more than 1000 m, which makes the illuminator perfect for hunting and long-distance observation. The X-Hog 01 illuminator in the version under discussion was developed for the HIKMICRO Alpex night vision sight.

The flashlight uses a convex lens and a variable focal length (zoom), which allows us to smoothly change the width of the infrared beam. Depending on the situation, we can precisely focus the light at a distance of 1,000 meters or use a diffused beam and illuminate objects up to 100 meters away. We adjust the focus of the beam by extending the head. The hunter can also precisely adjust the light output from 2% to 100%. Smooth change of light intensity is made by a rotary switch on the back of the device. The X-Hog 01 Laser Illuminator is also equipped with an LED battery level indicator, allowing an approximate check of the energy reserve of the 18650 battery (not included).

The body and head of the flashlight are made of T6061 aircraft aluminum alloy, which is characterized by low weight, high resistance to mechanical damage and insensitivity to weather conditions. The flashlight is handy and weighs only 170 g (with battery), so when mounted on the weapon it does not appreciably increase its weight and can be conveniently carried at the belt. The illuminator has an IPX6 waterproof rating, which means that the device can be used in all weather conditions.

• Emitter type laser
• Intensity adjustment yes
•  Max. operating time [h min] 2 h 30 min
• Maximum power [mW] 3
• Battery power supply 18650 × 1
• Total length [mm] 150
• Wavelength [nm] 850
• Weight [g] 170