Have a $75 avtech IR camera and just tried out the camera
in full darkness. The picture is OK (cool demon eyes!) but I noticed
that I can plainly see that each IR LED emits a red glow. Not ideal,
even for non-hidden cameras.

Is this expected in a camera of that price range or did I get ripped?

Yes. this is normal. You can change them out for 950 nm, but some cameras/lens wont work right with the higher wave lenth.

I prefer the glow. It is great for trouble shooting cameras.

No glow, no power!

If it has to be that covert then put it near neon signage, or create your own red light source. Now it just blends in.

You can put the camera near a light source so that when they look around they lose their night vision because of the lighting, and they cannot see the camera because of the bright light.

The invisible IR does not travel as far as the visible IR LEDs. You can pull the LEDs out, and replace them if you need, or cut the power to them, and use external IR illuminators.

For consumer use -your house & driveway etc it's better to have a dull glow
it makes the 'crims stop and think >then keep walking past !

If you have covert 950nm they will try to get in your car etc because they think they are not being watched.

I have countless stills to prove it !

I troubleshoot IR devices using my camera phone. IR Emitters, Garage Door safety sensors, Remote Controls etc. 8)

We use a test card designed for IR Remote Controls. It's cheap but doesn't work where there is too much ambient light. I've had it for years since I used to repair VCR's, but here is another source:
http://www.ersweb.com/Infratector.htm

A slight glow is also good for eye safety reasons.

If I am not mistaken I believe this was invented by an Army Helicopter Pilot so that he could make his tests.

Didn't they sell them to the goverment for around $100.00 in the begining?

I think I paid $15.00 for it 20 years ago. Here is the exact one I have:

They have two; each less than $13.00.

To Survtech

IR receiver from VCR ----> to monostable----> led output
from long time ago as VCR tech :)

Depending on your situation, you would have to use 950nm or higher to have no red glow. We sell the IR units that don't glow red if you are interested. Thanks