Abstract: The present invention is a multifunctional night vision monocular that is adapted for use by a soldier as a hand-held spotting scope, a helmet mounted scope, a head mounted scope, and a weapon mounted scope depending upon circumstances and the needs of the soldier. The night vision monocular is a self-contained unit capable of carrying its own power source. A universal mount on the bottom of the night vision monocular enables either a helmet mounting adaptor or a weapon sight mount to be quickly added to the monocular. The night vision monocular contains a GEN III image intensifier tube positioned between an objective lens assembly and an eyepiece lens assembly. The housing of the night vision monocular opens in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis, thereby enabling easy access to the various optical elements for repairs, maintenance and replacement. A reduced number of wire leads are used within the night vision monocular thereby reducing manufacturing costs and improving reliability.