what exactly is a light gathering ("starlight") scope?

[burmjohn]

This is from the DEC for furbearer hunting at night..

"If hunting without a light, the use of a light gathering ("starlight") scope is legal"

Now, does that mean that a "night vision" type of scope is legal or?

If not, what would be?

[bkln]

John,

Yup, they mean light gathering device aka night vision with or without IR. The "starlight" was a brand name back in the 70's and I guess they stuck with the name. Yes, night vision is legal in NY

[burmjohn]

For some reason I thought the night vision scopes were illegal for hunting.  I had sent the DEC an email, wasn't going to hold my breath for an answer .

[Caveman]

For some reason I thought the night vision scopes were illegal for hunting.  I had sent the DEC an email, wasn't going to hold my breath for an answer .

I've found when you have questions like this it's easier to call your regional office and request to speak with an officer.  I've done it a few times and they've been more than cooperative.  When I emailed them a question it took three weeks to get a response. 

[WNYBuckHunter]

Night vision is legal for coyotes, fox, etc. Like bkln said, the term "Starlight Scope" is referring to night vision. I would absolutely love to have one, but they are pretty expensive, even used.

[burmjohn]

Reason I was asking is the old man had bought a scope for a .243 he just picked up... And I was worried because I could not find crap about night vision scopes on the DEC site.  I wish they were clear about that stuff, its a joke.

[WNYBuckHunter]

Well, here is what the details on each generation of them is.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night_vision_device

Id wait to hear what DEC says, but their classification is probably similar.

[burmjohn]

I have never looked through a night vision scope, must be freaky.

[infmphunter32]

Everything lookss green, depending on the quality of the scope you can't make out a lot of small details but you can see enough to know what you're looking at.  With a real good one you can see everything you need to and more.  They're fun to play with.  Even better when they belong to the Army.  You don't feel bad if it breaks that way. 

[jr.deerslayer]

My favorite is the thermal...wish i could afford one.

[WhiteTailBuckDeer]

You can find cheaper ones for around $350. they work good for close range. If you want to shoot out a couple hundred yards your gonna be spending at least $1,500. We use a night vision monocular to spot then light it up when were ready to shoot.