Source of IR Illuminators and IR Lasers?

[Coronach]

A recent discussion about NVDs got me thinking, what sources are there for IR illumination systems and lasers for civvies? I know a little bit about them (like they're restricted in a typically byzantine fashion by the government), but not enough to know what to look for, or where to look for it.

I might be in better shape than most, as I have LE credentials, but they're just my own credentials (as in, I would not be able to use Dept. letterhead or run a purchase through the department, hahahahahahahha, oh no).

While we're at it, is there a source for "better"/more powerful visible lasers than is allowed for mere mortals by the FDA? Or is there no practical improvement to be made upon the better quality lasers on the free market?

Thanks,

Mike

 

[Hungry Seagull]

Well, there is a Sony Camcorder in one corner of that room. That camcorder once had a illuminator good for 100 feet at night by IR that provides the Camcorder a chance to see a green world much further than 10 feet in complete darkness.

I think several of these cheap illumunators with the right power supply and a old cheap camcorder patched into a computer or TV with cables might be just the ticket.

I believe there are much bigger IR illumators good for crew served weapons for close to 10K on the market in the USA.

 

[Coronach]

I'm looking for mil-grade type stuff, not "cobbled together in my basement" type stuff.

Mike