T3/M3 Infrared Scope lamp question

[Kaydee]

Can someone help me solve a problem. I have gone through all my manuals and cannot find the answer.
The Lens Filter on the T3/M3 Carbine lamp, I am told, is suppose to be black. I know it is made out of a plastic. i cannot find what was used to make it black. My Lens Filter on my lamp is semi clear. I can make out the bulb when looking in the lens. Can anyone supply me with information on the Lens Filter?

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[Sleeplessnashadow]

Just found this when looking for something else.

If you can see the bulb through the filter with the light off what you have isn't what was made for the scope. If the lamp is on the glow of the bulb can faintly be seen for a short distance. The design was intentional to prevent the enemy from seeing the light.

There were plastic filters made but I've yet to see one. I'm sure they're around. There are modern day plastic IR lenses but I've yet to find one thick enough to prevent seeing the bulb clearly at a distance when it's on. I bought a very dark one from Edmunds scientific a couple months ago. It was thin and melted after a few minutes of use.

The glass filters were coated with several chemicals. The process wasn't as simple as dunking the glass in the solution.

Several of us have a current research project on these scopes and their gear. I've identified a number of Engineer Board reports on the filters but have yet to locate copies. Have someone checking the national archives.

Jim
USCarbineCal30.com