In a nutshell
We'll cover ballistics standards of eyewear, the protocol of testing, and our favorite picks of the best shooting glasses. ShellShock Protection's SWITCH takes the overall win, followed by Wiley X's Saber, and Radians Revelation for the most affordable shooting glasses.
Eyes and ears…the two most important things to have at the shooting range.
We bought several of the most popular ones across different price points and tried them out with several buddies over a bunch of range trips.
These are the ones we keep on wearing.
By the end, you’ll know which one is best for your budget and intended use.
THE QUICK LIST
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Best Overall Shooting Glasses
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Best Military Spec Shooting Glasses
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Best Affordable Shooting Glasses
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Best Clay Shooting Glasses
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Best Higher-End Shooting Glasses
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Best Prescription Shooting Glasses
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Best Adjustable Shooting Glasses
Table of Contents
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How We Chose The Best Shooting Glasses
We at Pew Pew Tactical are shooting for hundreds of hours a year and we’ve gone through almost all the protective eyewear out there.
Ballistics Standards
When you get shooting glasses…you want to make sure they meet some standard of impact resistance. Otherwise, what’s the point?
There are three major standards:
- US Civilian: ANSI Z87.1
- US Military: MIL-PRF-31013
- European: EN 166
It’s recommended the minimum to meet is the civilian ANSI Z87.1 or European EN 166. If you’re really at risk of frag or projectiles…to meet the U.S. military specs.
Comfort
Next up…we chose the glasses that we’d wear for extended periods of time without needing to take them off. And that played nicely with shooting hearing protection.
Aesthetics
Of course…you have to look good when you’re shooting too!
Best Overall Shooting Glasses
ShellShock Protection SWITCH
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- ANSI Z87.1+ rating
- Comes with BOTH smoke & clear lenses
- Nearly indestructible TR90 frame
- Comes with shockproof case
Cons
- Not for very large faces/heads
Specs/Features:
- 1.5 oz
- ANSI Z87.1+
- Interchangeable lenses (Smoke & Clear)
- 99.9% UVA/UVB protection
- 2.7mm thick polycarbonate shatterproof lens
We here at Pew Pew Tactical have shot A LOT of guns and worn our share of both eyes and ears.
That’s why we created ShellShock Protection and spec-ed our own products to focus on comfort and safety.
We created the SWITCH to be comfortable, adjustable (very easy to switch between the clear and smoke lenses), and of course…protective (ANZI Z87.1+).
For our launch…we have Free Shipping and only TX tax for everything.
Plus 30% off our most popular combo packs where you can get the SWITCH plus our comfy EXO PRO electronic earmuffs with gel caps.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Best Military Spec Shooting Glasses
Wiley X Saber
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- MIL-PRF rated
- Interchangeable lenses
- Lightweight
Cons
- Arms can come out if you pull too hard when adjusting
Specs/Features:
- 3.2 oz
- MIL-PRF-32432
- ANSI Z87.1 for optical clarity
- Interchangeable lenses
- Can be fitted with a prescription insert
My overall favorite for style, coverage, and protection is the Wiley X Saber.
It covers more angles and exceeds the military MIL-RF-31013 standards for impact resistance, UV protection, and optical clarity.
Nosepiece is pretty comfortable and adjustable while the frame is normal thickness. It didn’t smush into my head when wearing electronic earmuffs.
Also light…but not the cheap kind of light.
Smoke grey is also perfect for sunny days or gloomy days like the above. That means it’s ok for indoor shooting so you don’t have to get a clear lens.
They’ve been in my range bag for years and I still cycle between them or offer them to my friends when we go shoot.
Check out their other models here.
What’s your take on the Wiley Xs?
Best Affordable Shooting Glasses
Radians Revelation
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Most affordable
- ANSI Z87.1+ standards
- Very bendable
Cons
- Feels cheap
Specs/Features:
- ANSI Z87.1 + standards
- Adjustable arm length and nosepiece
- Comes in multiple colors
Radians Revelations are what I consider the bare minimum — $9 and available in a couple colors. They are decent in style but I do feel their affordable price point in the construction.
Meets ANSI Z87.1+ standards for high-velocity impacts so they’ll protect your eyes.
One great thing is that the frames are pretty thin and can bend up at angles to match almost all faces.
I got the light smoke lens and it’s a good mix for daytime and when it starts getting dark (or indoors).
My take…a decent value where you’ll get the protection but you tend to get what you pay for. I still keep mine around as an extra pair if I’m taking a large group out to shoot.
Best Clay Shooting Glasses
Radians Clay Shooting Glasses
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Color enhances orange clays
- No top frame obstruction
- ANSI Z87.1+ standards
Cons
- Flimsy feeling
- Non-adjustable nosepiece
Specs/Features:
- 2.4 oz
- ANSI Z87.1 + standards
- Non-adjustable nosepiece
If you’re really into clay shooting…Radians Clay Shooting Glasses might be for you.
The color is meant to make the orange clays pop out. It works somewhat and I like how there’s no frame on the top to obstruct views…especially when looking upwards.
Nose is not that comfortable since it’s not adjustable. But the frame is a thin wire so earmuffs are not a problem. Very light overall but also a little flimsy.
Meets ANSI Z87.1+ standards for higher velocity.
If only I could pull off red lenses…
Best Higher-End Shooting Glasses
Oakley Radar
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Swappable nosepiece & lenses
- Comfortable
- Great side coverage
Cons
- More expensive
Specs/Features:
- 1.0 oz
- Swappable nosepiece for both regular and Asian-fit
- Lots of lenses for different sports/styles
You can never go wrong with Oakley.
I’ve been rocking the Oakley Radar for years since it has great coverage, meets the standards, and has different-sized nose pieces.
I’ve always struggled with finding a comfortable nosepiece and the Radars do it great.
It feels great even with earmuffs and never falls off when I’m sweaty.
I also like how it makes the colors pop out and it does help a little when I’m shooting with fiber optic sights.
Best Prescription Shooting Glasses
Tactical RX
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- ANSI Z87.1
- Prescription options
- Choice of lens colors and coatings
- Great for shooting even with high prescription
Cons
- Adds up when you add more coatings
Specs/Features:
- Multiple styles
- ANSI Z87.1 rated
- Comes with a great camo case
Wear glasses?
We’ve got the solution for you…custom prescription shooting glasses with Tactical RX.
Grab your prescription from your doctor and choose your favorite frame. There are tons to choose from with Tactical RX’s own brand or some other popular ones.
You’ll then choose your lenses…and warning they aren’t cheap. But are in-line with what it costs to retrofit sunglasses with a prescription. Can you really put a price on being able to see while you shoot? Not really.
Add in options for anti-reflective and anti-scratch, and now you’re ANSI Z87.1 rated.
We also like that they come in a tough case that you can hang off your range bag.
Overall, Tactical RX is our crew’s favorite glasses if you need a prescription.
Best Adjustable Shooting Glasses
Smith Aegis
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Pros
- Thin arms for good earmuff seal
- US-MIL-PRF-31013
- Interchangeable lenses
Cons
- I can't pull off this style
Specs/Features:
- 9 oz (including box and accessories)
- Adjustable nosepiece
- Comes with two lenses
I really like the Smith Aegis. It has everything I want in a frame…
Meets ALL three standards, has great coverage, and fit everyone that tried it because of the adjustable nose piece.
Think Oakley’s “Asian Fit” for us with smaller noses/bridges.
Also has a super-thin frame that doesn’t get caught up in even tight earmuffs.
It feels quality and that means a little more weight than the others.
My only complaint is that the frame that’s “missing” in the top middle makes it a little bit too aggressive. One person asked if I was on SWAT and another if I was from the Matrix.
Otherwise…it comes with a case and two lenses so you can shoot in both day and low-light.
This is great for something that really protects your eyes and has you set for whatever environment.
As long as you can pull off the look.
Best Stylish Shooting Glasses
STNGR Alpine & Ridge
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- ANSI Z87.1
- Two sizes and multiple colors
- Very durable
Cons
- Could fit better for small faces
Specs/Features:
- ANSI Z87.1 Certified
- 110 degree hinge system
- Adjustable nose pad
STNGR makes awesome and affordable AR-15 handguards…
And are one of our favorite picks in Best AR-15 Handguards.
But I gave their ballistic sunglasses a try and they might be my favorite ones yet for something equally at home on the range or in the truck.
They come in two-size flavors and a few colors. And all have ANSI Z87.1 shatterproof lenses.
AND are crazy durable…cringe factor activate!
First up is the Alpine for medium faces…which include mine.
I really like these since they were super clear and cut enough glare/sunlight but won’t intrude on target acquisition.
And had adjustable rubber nose pieces to custom fit my face.
They have a great return policy and lifetime warranty.
There’s the larger version which they call the Ridge.
Same great build and lens quality…just a little larger and with a fixed nosepad.
Here is how the green view through looks…
Want a “regular” color? There’s also smoke for each type.
It didn’t fit my face as well but for our larger-faced shooting buddies…they loved them.
All the glasses came in a nice case and also a retaining strap which was a nice touch.
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Best Metal Frame Shooting Glasses
Gatorz
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Pros
- US Made, CNC aluminum frame
- Very adjustable
- ANSI Z87+
Cons
- Heavier than plastic frames
Specs/Features:
- Adjustable nosepiece and frame
- ANSI Z87+
- Added protection of metal frame
Recently Gatorz came out with a setup designed to help out shooters. This Magnum includes MILSPEC-rated glass tinted for high contrast.
Shooters (particularly those oriented toward competition) will appreciate how the lenses highlight oranges and reds while addressing or transitioning between targets.
The aluminum frames are lightweight and comfortable but super tough. I know because I wore a pair of Magnums for years.
These new lenses come in two different shades, day and low light so you can choose what works best for you. Gatorz also has a discount for military and first responders.
These shades were also heavily featured in The Terminal List, the television port of Jack Carr’s book of the same title.
Use our link to get an automatic 15% off.
How about another style?
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If you’re not down with the wraparound style, the Delta might be perfect for you. Still made from aluminum, these ANSI-rated ballistic glasses come in a traditional style that’s still lightweight and tough.
The Deltas are also perfect for both on and off the range compared to others on our list.
These are better for those of us with smaller nose-bridges as well…but the great thing about Gatorz is their adjustability.
View-through is crisp and clear.
Another exciting option for the Delta is photochromatic lenses, which offer clear, no tint viewing indoors, but darken when they are exposed to UV light. The result is a pair of shooting glasses you can commit to in any condition.
Use our link to get an automatic 15% off.
Best Larger Fit Shooting Glasses
Magpul Explorer XL
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Great for larger faces
- TR90 constructed frames
Cons
- Not rated to Z87.1 due to wrap and shape
Specs/Features:
- Optimized for medium to larger faces
- Multiple frame and lens combos
There are quite a few companies making eyewear applicable to the shooting lifestyle, but when Magpul stepped up and threw their hat in the ring, I paid attention.
This company has been making innovative and useful products for years, and their firearms know-how is unquestioned.
The Explorer XL (made for a larger fit) is made from injected-molded TR90NZZ, and it has a unique look because it’s partly transparent – particularly with the tortoise color.
They are lightweight, comfortable, am provide ample shading. I noticed the blue-tinted, polarized lenses sharpen my vision just a bit when I’m at the range shooting.
Although not Z87.1 rated, these are made impact resistant, just like the other sunglasses in Magpul’s lineup. In addition, the Explorer XL comes with a DAKA can (hard case) for storage.
Best Sport/Leisure Glasses
Vortex Banshee and Jackal
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Comfortable
- Good glare protection
- Vortex VIP Warranty
Cons
- Not US made
Specs/Features:
- ANSI Z87.1 rated
- MIL-PRF 32423-A 4.8.4 rated lenses
There can be little doubt Vortex is about that outdoor lifestyle and now they’ve created a line of quality eyewear to compliment their optics. Whether you’re hunting, fishing, golfing, or on a critical incident, the Jackal or Banshee will have you covered.
These frames are very lightweight but are rated for protection. They also come equipped with non-slip surfaces on the bridge and temples for a solid fit.
The lenses come in a few different color options and feature shatter protection as well as polarization as well as 100% UV protection.
With the Banshee you can select gold mirror or smoke lenses. On the Jackal you can choose from gold mirror, smoke, or blue mirror lenses.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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FAQ
What's the best color lens for shooting?
Most prefer clear for shooting indoors, smoke for general bright days, and some contrasting colors like red or yellow for clay shooting sports.
What rating is needed for shooting glasses?
There are three major ratings: ANSI Z87.1, MIL-PRF-31013, or EN 166
Why do shooters wear yellow glasses?
Some shooters believe yellow helps with depth perception and also differentiating bright colors such as an orange clay.
Do I need polarized shooting glasses?
Polarized glasses help with glare but can make viewing screens more difficult.
Final Thoughts
There you have it…my favorite picks for best shooting glasses.
Now that your eyes are protected…get yourself the best ear protection out there too. We cover everything in-hand from earplugs to all the most popular electronic earmuffs in Best Shooting Ear Protection.
Latest Updates
March 12, 2024 – Added ShellShock SWITCHs, additional How We Chose details, and changed header categories/format.
February 21, 2024 – Added ShellShock Protection DEFLECTORS and a prescription option from Tactical RX.
98 Leave a Reply
One category left off the list are shooting glasses with an add for older shooters, specifically an add in the top part of the lens to help older shooters focus on their sights. The company that you list for Rx lenses I believe are making only single vision lenses. At 62 I can no longer see something too close to my eyes, like my sights. I've tried these and they help if I want to shoot precisely, or at least try to.
SSP Eyewear Top Focal Safety Glasses Kit
Some of these 'shooting glasses' companies in the list will/may do Rx lenses (whihc also includes the type you ask about) or (sometimes) other special lenses for you, but they don't advertise it and you will need to contact them and ask. I know Wiley does (or did) because they did a pair for my wife (on some wileyX models on their web pages they say they will do RX lenses if you contact them).
Or.... if you just want, ya know, 'shooting glasses' and not wanna pay for 'fashion wear' like some of the ones in this article, run on over to Home Depot or Lowes or some other hardware store and get some safety glasses. Most if not all of them will be more than suitable and offer the same protective capability, and generally they can be had for less than the 'supposedly bests in the world higher priced fashion types in this article' . Plus, some of them also come in 'shaded' offering the same 'light' protective/polarization capability as the higher priced 'fashion wear' types like some of those in this article.
Here's the thing - although it can't be said truthfully that 100% of ALL safety glasses ya get at walmart or some other place meet 100% of all the specs outlined in this article for the fashion wear - it can be said truthfully that most of ALL safety glasses (not specifically touted as shooting glasses) ya get at walmart or some other place will meet 100% of the same specs outlined for these glasses in terms of safety standards including 'ballistic' aspects and that's because there are federal standards for safety glasses be they that $20.00 pair of 'safety glasses' at Home Depot or that $200.00 pair of 'shooting glasses' as they meet the same standards for their 'safety' aspects.
So, if ya think that 'cool high speed low drag' name on the fashion models 'shooting glasses' means 'extra extra' safety vs many of the normal lower cost 'safety glasses' - you are wasting your money if you just want some 'shooting glasses' for, ya know, shooting, and not a 'range fashion show'.
That being said... the best 'shooting glasses' are the ones that are best for you and not what some list somewhere claims is the best, plus, some people want a little 'fashion' or 'cool looking' too and there is nothing wrong with that.
This is not a best list. This is best affordable list. Any best list that doesn’t mention Pilla or Ranger is invalid. I get they are out of reach for the average shooter but some of us would like to actually see what the best options are and how they compare to each other.
No Leupold glasses? I have a large head and love my tortoise Refuge, but I'm on my second pair because they scratch easy
HOW ABOUT FOR THOSE OF USE WHO HAFTA WEAR PERSCRIPTION GLASSES?? ANY RECOMMENDATIONS IN THAT AREA??
I’ve used NoCry glasses for range and job sites. I find them good options for both.
LOL. When shooting, I could care less if I look like I'm from the Matrix as long as I am protected while I'm putting rounds down range hitting squarely at what I'm aiming at.
I need fitovers for my prescription glasses. Suggestions?
Thanks
I found me a set at WalMart.
Get prescription shooting glasses. Fit overs suck .
I have a pair of Wiley X with yellow prescription lenses . My daughter manages two eye doctor offices here in Texas so I got a real good deal on them , lol.
I’ve used NoCry glasses for range and job sites. I find them good options for both.
No mention of Hunter's HD Gold on the high end or Pit Vipers on the more affordable end. Both of those brands are on LOTS of competition shooter's faces.
Not a single mention of a pair of glasses that can accommodate people requiring correction. I'd imagine several readers fall into that category. SSP Eyewear has glasses with a bifocal segment in the top of the lens, very helpful for older shooters. SSP must not have given its tribute.
Or.... if you just want, ya know, shooting glasses and not higher priced fashion wear, run on over to Home Depot or Lowes or some other hardware store and get some safety glasses. Most if not all of them will be more than suitable and offer the same protective capability. Plus, some of them also come in 'shaded' offering the same 'light' protective/polarization capability as the higher priced 'fashion wear' types like some of those in this article.
Skeleton Optics makes great shooting glasses. It's a smaller company that makes great sunglasses as well as the shooting glasses. I have them and an quite satisfied with them.
looking to research over prescription glasses . . . . best is to get prescription safety glasse but tiding me over is:
I wear prescription and I rock el cheapo goggles that came with our (bf's) gel blaster (hydro pulsar pro ) they fit weird on my face leaving gaps on top and bottom but it helps keep airflow so it doesn't fog and stays on.
Also works: college / high school lab glasses (clear ones with the round air holes on the side) known by many brand names. But may have to get eyeglass savers / straps as they can slip) Not getting any style points so garandthumb would be like whuut with my set up.
Some snowboard googles (dragon, oakley, or smith what I have) with minimal shade tint, the good ones don't fog and can wear regular glasses under . . .
My airsoft friends swear by revision military desert locust (they used to have tons of "used ones" mil spec and dirt cheap but ran out so they only have new ones more pricier), but I use of anti fog and they work now.
Great review thank you. The one major issue you didn't address is what do people who wear corrective lenses do. My eyeglasses aren't ballistically safe and I've been lucky so far (unless you count shell casings bouncing off my glasses). Those options are out there, I would like to see someone do an impartial evaluation before I spend a couple of hundred dollars to buy the wrong pair. Thanks,
Hey Stuart, we're working on getting some prescription shooting glasses in for review so hold tight!
TY
What about those of us that wear prescription glasses
I am looking for a good option for eye protection for shooting with glasses. Any Suggestions?
these are all really cool shooting glasses for guys and gals that can see. How about us geezers that have to wear glasses just to load a magazine, much less see a target down range? I need something that fits over my seeing glasses
same here... Check out No Cry saftey glasses on Amazon
In the "Tested Shooting Glasses" picture that shows six different glasses, What glasses are pictured front and center?
I’m wondering the same!??
I see a lot of questions about options for glasses wearers. Rx shooting glasses are pricey and if ppl are like me, their rx may change annually. I found ess striker tactical xt goggles that fit over glasses on sale for $30. Rated U.S. MIL SPEC MIL-PRF-32432, ANSI Z87.1 2015, CE EN 166 and U.S. Federal OSHA. Can wear my rx sunglasses under them outdoors.
If your are a shooter in any competitive capacity and require prescription, using a high wrap frame in most cases isn't going to do you any favors. Neither is using one of those rx clip on inserts behind a shield style frame or wearing goggles over glasses. Both options induce a lot of distortion and in a precision sport like shooting that's obviously less than ideal. I went with Decot's since they'll customize the glasses to your exact prescription. They've been making shooting glasses forever. It's all they do. Super knowledgeable, awesome products. Most of the staff are shooters themselves as well as being opticians. You really can't go wrong.
Looking to get the Oakley Radar's! Ordered the low light Prizm lenses for $130. I do have a question that I can't seem to find. In the article it states these glasses meet safety standards. Where can I find and confirm these standards? Thanks
Walkers with exchangeable lenses. Sub $20 and 4 lenses for all lighting conditions. I bought a second set to use when biking. Comfortable and lower coverage than most other glasses.
Comes with a case too!
I am gunna guess that because of the curvature of the lenses that getting prescription lenses are a No-Go with most of these glasses. With the exception of the STNGR and the Gators maybe. But being given that info would be great thing to add to your article. For most of us "Older" shooters, this is a Deal Breaker. Just sayin Pew-Pew guys and gals.......Other than that. Great article as usual.
We're working on getting and testing some prescription options! So hang tight and we'll update this article when we can.
Can you test the, 308 Ballistic Clear HD Lenses by ZEISS. They’re expensive and I don’t want to just try them.
E-mail us - We can help sort ya out! info@fortknightoptics
I'm with Kurtis here on his point. Why not get a review up for us that have the need for prescription lenses?
I feel you as someone who also wears prescription glasses! We are trying to get some in hand for the glasses-wearing staff at PPT so we can update this soon!
will it include over-spec options?
any updates on when this will be published?
spec ballistic glasses are hella expensive, and most glasses owners have already invested a lot of money in their typical glasses as it is, or as mentioned above, have to change the prescription regularly
We're still waiting on a few more models to hit our doorstep so we can do some testing.
All great for the perfect of vision. Options for glasses or with 1.25, 1.50 etc magnifiers. Would love to see
We're working on getting our hands on some prescription glasses. So hang tight and we'll update this when we get them in!
You should look into Decot's. They offer some of the best shooting glasses around and can accommodate almost any prescription. They've been around making shooting glasses since the 40's so I'd say they know what they are doing.
I HAVE USED DECOTS FOR 23 YEARS AND AS FAR AS I AM CONCERNED THEIR GLASSES ARE THE BEST. ESPECIALLY IF YOU NEED PRESCRIPTION EYE WEAR FOR ANY OF THE SHOOTING OR FISHING SPORTS.
Agreed. They really are the best. Really surprised they aren't on this list. Hopefully Pew Pew looks um up and updates this article. Especially on Rx! No one else comes close to the level of service and options for prescription wearing shooters. And who else hand makes eyeglasses in the US anymore?
What about people who wear prescription glass, do you have any suppliers?
I didn't see any comments regarding whether any of the glasses breathe well (i.e. don't fog up). From my perspective, if the glasses fog up easily then they aren't that useful.
Did I miss over the glasses type?
Probably not. Most makers of emergency, safety, and tactical gear seem to think eyeglasses are a newfangled passing fad that not many people actually use, so they don't seem to bother worrying about it outside of a bare handful of uncomfortable and super-expensive special options.
After all, it's not like eyeglasses have been around for 800-odd years or are used by half the population or anything...
Right Jake...uncomfortable is right, and as you say, good ones are $$.
Under $30...extremely comfortable under muffs and stay in place....Smith & Wesson M&P Harrier Shooting Glasses Black Frame Interchangeable Smoke Mirror, Clear Mirror, Vermillion, Amber Lens
Any of these available with prescription lens option? If not, any of them comfortable over prescription glasses?
So, nothing for over-the-Rx-glasses wearers?
I'm kind of surprised not to see HuntersHD Gold/Ruby in here, they are one of the top choices for competition shooters.
+ 1 using HuntersHD for a prescription safety glasses for over a year
What about over-glasses for those of us who must wear prescription glasses?
Magpul. Own 3 pair, one with clear lenses. Light, fit and finish are quality, polarised, ballistic lenses, plus they look good just wearing everyday and dont scream "tactical."
Walkers sport glasses. Comes with 4 interchangeable lenses that each serve a purpose. Lower coverage on eyes as well.
Sub $20.
Dillon and/or SSP Eye wear carry a Top Focal
for persons needing bifocals. Instead of the focal lens at the bottom of glasses it’s placed in the upper portion, really makes a difference. Instead of looking over your nose your head stays in a more natural position. Excellent for bifocal wearers.
Good to know.
Surprised not to see one of the first and best shooting glasses overlooked. Decot glasses have been the gold standard for shotgun sports for decades. Their Hy-wide glasses adjust up to fit when cheek weld would push up others. Lenses swap out for color and darkness options.
One of the better shooting glasses that meet mil spec are from ESS. Very surprised that they weren't included in your evaluation.
APEL-PEO Soldier, check out the website for the best protective eyewear.
Anyone with good vision who is spending more than $20.00 on safety glasses to use for shooting is probably spending too much.
Prescription shooting glasses can be costly too. So consider if you actually need a full prescription for shooting because a lot of times a pair of 'reading glasses' will work fine if you are only far-sighted worse than near sighted and you can get 'reading' safety glasses for cheaper than a full prescription and these take care of the far-sighted.
I'm a "senior" shooter, who doesn't need prescription eyewear and can see at distance, but I need "readers" (1.50) 100% of the time for up-close vision within 3 ft. +/- (it came on about age 40) - I found a great pair of "shooting" glasses at work. Protective eyewear was mandatory (OSHA required), and found you can spend a fortune getting prescription safety glasses that satisfy the safety standards for impact/projectile protection. They are VoltX safety glasses - and come with normal or bi-focal lenses in your normal "reader" corrections. The cost was minimal (around $20) , and the lenses and frames are certified to EN166f (ANSI high impact - 6.3mm ball @ 164.6 Kph). They come in clear and smoke shade. I bought mine at an industrial safety supply outfit and are readily available on line. The bi-focal really helps when shooting and then making up-close adjustments.
Personally, I need and am looking prescription safety (shooting) glasses.
One of the instructors at a training class suggested SSP Eyewear, which makes bifocal safety glasses, especially for shooting. May be worth a look.
Sorry, I could not include their web address.
This is really helpful, Evan. I didn’t know these existed, and I just ordered a pair. Thanks for taking the time.
Its nice that FortKnight Optics has finally released an eyewear line specifically for the shooting sports though - and I believe every pair uses ZEISS lenses? Reviews seem good so far
Reviews seem fake so far.
Is it ANSI Z87 or 287? :-)
It's "Z" 87.1 (Z87.1 ANSI projectile impact test.) Same as the European EN166f certification.
Outlaw Eyewear makes a prescription eye protection that is the best I've ever worn. A bit pricey, but the quality and clarity were excellent. Worth the cost to get the vision/protection.
First Eric, Don’t ever stop doing what you do so well. Thank you for an honest product, words cannot describe how important it is to many of us. Second, Don’t ever let John stop doing gun & products review videos. While I don’t have “His” experience I have my own which is extensive in LE. He brings a knowledge to the arena that only a True Warrior could and he does it with honestly that only a man who’s been in the trenches could know. And all without sponsor driven glamorous reviews that are useless junk.
Thanks Pew Pew!
I just picked up a set of ESS Crossbow Suppressor 2X. Not cheap but for $130 you get 3 lenses and 2 frame options. I've been an Oakley fan for years and this is one of their brands. Also they are Mil Spec rated!
Well Eric, you should try sports eyewear by Pilla, the #1 brand in olympic shooting. Very expensive though. https://pillasport.com/pages/shooting
I was looking for someone to mention Pillas there is a significant difference between them and $20 glass or even $200 glasses.
What model is good for prescription glasses?
A little more expensive but more versatile are the WileyX Valor. These are great glasses that can be worn at the range or as normal sunglasses. They have swappable lenses that are pretty easy to exchange. Normal sunglasses or an outdoor range day? No problem, I run normally with the polarized lenses. Indoor range? I swap for the clear lenses. They also have an amber color and normal grey non-polarized. You can even get them in prescription lenses. Definitely worth inclusion in your reviews at some point. They are military approved ballistic rated.
Thank you for this article. I have been looking to replace some running sunglasses with some eyewear of quality that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Thanks to your article, I ordered a pair of the Radians Revelation for $8, and they are perfect! Great fit, good shading, and if I lose them, I'm only out eight bucks. I also ordered a pair of the Wiley X Saber because, you know, shooting glasses...
+1 for using the werd "smush"....
Which shooting glasses or goggles can be used with glasses?
I shoot trap I have a D cot, hi wide pair of shooting glasses, with removable lenses, also a new pair of Ranger shooting glasses, Of course these our prescription, Why didn’t they make the list thank you Gary
Assume you are referring to Decot (pronounced DEE-ko) Hy-Wyd Sport Glasses designed by the late Bud Decot and sold by his optics shop in Phoenix? Those are custom prescription jobs, very expensive, and probably outside the scope of this article.
Just a warning for anyone considering a 6.5 Grendel build, ...... avoid purchasing the upper from Davidson Defense a.k.a. Delta Team Tactical. My experience with this supplier is they advertise an extremely accurate product or so it would seem until you shoot it and find you get smaller groups from a shotgun firing 00 buckshot at 100 yards thru an improved cylinder choke than from this "precision upper".
Oh one other thing, if you're luckier than I was, maybe your gas block will have "both" set screws attached ant actually secured instead of having it slip completely off the gas port like mine did, but that would be asking too much from Davidson Defense since they actually said that I voided the warranty by installing the missing set screw and adding blue loctite to keep both screws in place like they should have done at the factory when they assembled the upper! , how's that for quality assurance and product safety!!!!! Had I fired another round with the gas block fully off the gas port................... well lets see, I wonder what damage the gas produced from the flaming white hot blast of 60,000 psi burning rifle powder would have done to my face and hands? .....just saying.........
P.S. everything stated is 100% verifiable and I will gladly forward the photos and all email communications with Davidson Defense to anyone who doubts what ive stated here.
Hey. You lost me at the first "huh?"
Cant wait until you turn 40. Then you will appreciate the need for corrective lenses. My Eyemart safety glasses fit the bill.
Forget contacts and glasses, get LASIK. Beats wearing glasses for decades.
Hi! I've got a huge head and was wondering what size you are? And on top of that I'm Asian so almost nothing fits me:(
I had a pair of Oakley M frame peering off coating... I threw the lenses away. Besides that, oakley glasses were overall good stuff.
You are pretty much 'toast' if you need 'corrective lenses'.....'hello' Wal-Mart....
Do the Oakley glasses tested meet or exceed the MIL-RF-31013 standards? I think a lot of the different styles do not..
You have to look for specific glasses for the ratings. If you just buy basic sunglasses then no they are not rated. However you can find most of the normal frames in the Standard Issue version which is MIL rated.
Have you tested glasses while looking through magnified optics? I can't find anything that works well for me. Oakley's just don't seem to work well with them and I find myself shooting without glasses much of the time. My eyes are light sensitive, likely from wearing sunglasses too much, so many times this results in a headache.
My thought on the aggressive look is this:
It depends on who you are shooting with.
For a Newbee, it may look as if you are a radical. For the seasoned shooter, they look cool, and are, apparently quite eficient.
I have the Smith's and love them! I'm a small, female, seasoned newbie (I've only been shooting for a few months but you wouldn't know it from my shooting) and I figure if I"m carrying a gun, I could put a mop on my head and it would look cool LOL!
Stunned (maybe shocked is the better word) that Decot was not tested and on your list. Some to the best if not the best optical quality material for their lenses. Great service. Will work with you to get what fits your needs the best and how to set up the lenses (if you need a Rx) for shooting sports (or almost any sport) for which you need the glasses.
Hi, I haven't heard of them but maybe I'll check them out when we update this article in the future.
Yup, Already looked at several of those mentioned. Then I discovered that I could see the sights on my pistol way better, with my "reading glasses" on, So any suggestions for us old farts?
You might want to check out our #3 Allen Over Glasses so it can go over your reading glasses.
And where would those be? Don't see them in the article.