Shooting is a popular sport and hobby enjoyed by many individuals. However, it can also be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. One of the essential safety gear items for shooters is shooting glasses. These glasses protect the eyes from flying debris, shell casings, and other hazards that can cause severe eye injuries.
When it comes to purchasing shooting glasses, there are several critical factors to consider. The type of lens, frame, and fit are all crucial elements that can affect the glasses’ effectiveness and comfort. The lens should provide clear and unobstructed vision while also protecting against harmful UV rays. The frame should be durable and comfortable to wear for extended periods, and the fit should be snug enough to prevent the glasses from slipping or moving during use.
We spent hours reviewing various shooting glasses to identify the best options available. Our top picks offer superior protection, clarity, and comfort, making them ideal for both novice and experienced shooters.
Understanding Specs: ANSI Z87.1 vs. MIL-PRF-31013
When it comes to shooting glasses, there are two main standards that are commonly used to measure their safety and protection: the ANSI Z87.1 and the MIL-PRF-31013.
ANSI Z87.1
The ANSI Z87.1 standard is a set of requirements for safety glasses and goggles that are designed to protect the eyes from impact and other hazards. This standard is used by many industries, including construction, manufacturing, and of course, shooting.
To meet the ANSI Z87.1 standard, shooting glasses must be able to withstand a series of tests, including impact resistance, penetration resistance, and optical clarity. This means that shooting glasses that meet this standard are designed to protect your eyes from flying debris, shrapnel, and other hazards that you might encounter on the range.
MIL-PRF-31013
The MIL-PRF-31013 standard is a set of requirements that are specifically designed for military eyewear. This standard is used to ensure that military personnel are protected from the unique hazards that they might encounter in combat situations.
To meet the MIL-PRF-31013 standard, shooting glasses must be able to withstand even more rigorous tests than those required by ANSI Z87.1. These tests include high-velocity impact resistance, as well as resistance to extreme temperatures and chemicals.
While not all shooting glasses are designed to meet the MIL-PRF-31013 standard, those that do are typically considered to be some of the most durable and reliable options on the market. However, it’s worth noting that these glasses may also be more expensive than those that only meet the ANSI Z87.1 standard.
In conclusion, understanding the differences between the ANSI Z87.1 and MIL-PRF-31013 standards can help you choose the right shooting glasses for your needs. Whether you’re a casual shooter or a member of the military, there are options available that can provide the protection and durability you need to stay safe on the range.
Best Shooting Glasses
We understand the importance of having the right gear when it comes to shooting. One of the key pieces of equipment that every shooter should have is a reliable pair of shooting glasses. Not only do they protect your eyes from debris and harmful UV rays, but they also enhance your vision, allowing you to see your targets more clearly. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right pair. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best shooting glasses to help you make an informed decision. Our team has researched and tested various brands and models to bring you this comprehensive list. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned shooter, we’ve got you covered.
Wiley X Saber Advanced Shooting Glasses
If you’re looking for a reliable pair of shooting glasses that offer maximum protection and visibility, then the Wiley X Saber Advanced Shooting Glasses are an excellent choice.
Pros
- The glasses are lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
- The flexible nose piece ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
- The foam insert on the changeable lens provides added comfort and protection.
Cons
- The glasses are non-polarized, which may be a downside for some users.
- The price point may be a bit higher than some other shooting glasses.
- The glasses may not fit all head sizes comfortably.
The Wiley X Saber Advanced Shooting Glasses feature a nylon frame and polycarbonate lens with a UV protection coating. They meet MIL-PRF-32432 ballistic safety standards for maximum protection, making them a great choice for hunting, fishing, biking, and extreme sports.
The glasses are built to adapt to your ever-changing environment, with the changeable lens allowing you to swap lenses for exceptional protection and visibility in any condition. Wiley X is committed to providing unparalleled protection, clarity, and style to every pair of sunglasses they build, and the Saber Advanced Shooting Glasses are no exception.
The lenses provide 100% UVA/UVB protection with distortion-free clarity, and they are ANSI-rated for crisper, clearer optics, enhanced color contrast, and vision accuracy. Almost every Wiley X frame can be filled with a custom prescription lens, making them a great option for those who require prescription glasses.
In summary, the Wiley X Saber Advanced Shooting Glasses are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable pair of shooting glasses that offer maximum protection and visibility. While they may be a bit more expensive than some other options, the added features and quality construction make them well worth the investment.
Oakley OO9208 Radar Ev Path Sunglasses+ Vision Group Accessories Bundle Matte Black Camo/ Prizm Deep Water Polar (9208c0)
If you’re looking for the perfect pair of sunglasses for shooting, the Oakley OO9208 Radar Ev Path Sunglasses are a great option for you.
Pros
- The bundle includes a cloth pouch, lens cleaner spray, lens cleaning cloth, and glass repair kit, making it a great value for the price.
- The plastic frame and lens make the sunglasses lightweight and comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
- The polarized lenses offer complete eye protection, blocking harmful blue light up to 400nm and shielding your eyes against any potential threat.
Cons
- The earpieces may be too thick for visor clips to hold.
- Some users may find the plastic frame less durable than other materials.
- The price may be higher than other shooting glasses on the market.
We recently had the opportunity to review these sunglasses, and we were impressed with their quality and functionality. The bundle that comes with the sunglasses includes everything you need to keep them clean and in good condition, making it a great value for the price.
The plastic frame and lens make the sunglasses lightweight and comfortable to wear for long periods of time, which is essential for shooting. The polarized lenses offer complete eye protection, blocking harmful blue light up to 400nm and shielding your eyes against any potential threat.
While the earpieces may be too thick for visor clips to hold, we found that they were still comfortable and secure during use. Some users may find the plastic frame less durable than other materials, but we didn’t experience any issues with it during our testing.
Overall, we highly recommend the Oakley OO9208 Radar Ev Path Sunglasses for anyone in the market for shooting glasses. They offer great protection and comfort, and the included bundle makes them a great value for the price.
Smith Optics Elite Aegis Arc Compact Eyeshield Field Kit Black Clear
If you’re looking for the best shooting glasses, the Smith Optics Elite Aegis Arc Compact Eyeshield Field Kit is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The Tapered Lens Technology corrects distortion and provides a clear view of your target.
- Superior ballistic impact protection per US-MIL-PRF-31013 standard ensures your eyes are safe.
- The Megol temples and soft nose hold eyeshields in place, even during rapid movements.
Cons
- The frame may be too thick for some users.
- The tops of the glasses may fog up due to their high placement on the forehead.
- The compact frames are designed for smaller head/hat sizes.
The Smith Optics Elite Aegis Arc Compact Eyeshield Field Kit is impressive with all its features. The Tapered Lens Technology helps to correct distortion, which is especially important when shooting at targets. The superior ballistic impact protection per US-MIL-PRF-31013 standard ensures that your eyes are protected from any possible debris or hazards.
The Megol temples and soft nose hold the eyeshield in place, even during rapid movements, which is essential for shooters who need to stay focused on their targets. However, some users may find the frame to be too thick and heavy, which can be uncomfortable during extended use.
Additionally, the tops of the glasses may fog up due to their high placement on the forehead. This may be a minor inconvenience for some, but it is something to keep in mind.
Overall, the Smith Optics Elite Aegis Arc Compact Eyeshield Field Kit is a great choice for anyone looking for high-quality shooting glasses. The clear view, superior protection, and secure fit make it a top option for anyone who takes their shooting seriously.
STNGR Ridge Unbreakable Tactical Ballistic Outdoor & Shooting Sunglasses Polarized For Men Blue Mirror
We highly recommend the STNGR Ridge Unbreakable Tactical Ballistic Outdoor & Shooting Sunglasses Polarized For Men Blue Mirror. These sunglasses are perfect for outdoor activities and shooting.
Pros
- The RAZR polarized lens technology enhances color contrast and provides crystal clear optical clarity.
- The ultra-durable memory flex nylon frame makes these sunglasses one of the toughest on the market.
- The Ballistic ANSI Z87+ Certified and Stamped scratch-resistant lenses provide high-impact, military-grade protection.
Cons
- Priced on the high end.
- The lens scratches easily.
- The design is not very stylish.
The STNGR Ridge Unbreakable Tactical Ballistic Outdoor & Shooting Sunglasses Polarized For Men Blue Mirror is a great choice for anyone looking for high-quality sunglasses that provide excellent protection and clarity. The RAZR polarized lens technology amplifies color, improves depth perception, and enhances color contrast for a crisp, clear picture of the world around you. The high-impact shatterproof lenses provide crystal clear optical clarity with anti-scratch, 100% UVA / UVB protection and anti-reflective coatings for a difference you can see.
The proprietary, ultra-durable memory flex nylon frame (featuring anti-slip rubber temples, adjustable nose pad, and interchangeable lenses) make STNGR sport sunglasses one of the toughest on the market. Through hundreds of tests and iterations, they developed a flexible hinge system that dramatically enhances durability, making them nearly unbreakable. By engineering hinges with an extra 20° of inward rotation, the Ridge fixes the most common problem with sunglasses today – breaking at the hinge.
Our Ballistic ANSI Z87+ Certified and Stamped scratch-resistant lenses provide high-impact, military-grade protection to keep you seeing your best in any condition outdoors. The anti-glare wraparound glasses design provides safety from headaches caused by periphery light, which makes it the perfect gift for any outdoorsman. We proudly stand behind our sunglasses with our SWARM Lifetime Craftsmanship Warranty. If you have any issues happen that aren’t caused by normal use, we’ll send you a replacement pair – for free. It’s that simple. We’re serious about making these the last pair of sunglasses you’ll ever need.
In conclusion, the STNGR Ridge Unbreakable Tactical Ballistic Outdoor & Shooting Sunglasses Polarized For Men Blue Mirror is a great investment for anyone who is looking for a high-quality pair of sunglasses that provide excellent protection and clarity.
Gatorz Magnum Tactical Hand-Crafted Military Sunglasses
We highly recommend the Gatorz Magnum Tactical Hand-Crafted Military Sunglasses for anyone looking for durable and stylish shooting glasses. You should know that Gatorz Eyewear is preferred by Elite Special Operation Commands, including US Navy SEALs, SWAT, law enforcement, first responders, and the US CSAU. Made from 7075 military-grade aluminum, the frames are lightweight, durable, and adjustable – creating a comfortable, and secure fit.
Pros
- The aluminum frame is strong and lightweight, making these glasses comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
- The polycarbonate lens provides excellent clarity and protection against high-velocity impact.
- The adjustable frame and nosepiece ensure a secure and comfortable fit for any head size.
Cons
- The non-polarized lens may not be suitable for bright sunlight or glare.
- The anti-reflective coating may not be as effective as other brands.
- The glasses are not designed specifically for outdoor activities.
These glasses are perfect for shooting enthusiasts who need a reliable and durable pair of glasses to protect their eyes. The aluminum frame is CNC machined and fully adjustable, ensuring a perfect fit for any head size. The polycarbonate lens is high-velocity impact resistant and provides excellent clarity. The adjustable frame and nosepiece also make these glasses comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
One downside is that the non-polarized lens may not be suitable for bright sunlight or glare. Additionally, the anti-reflective coating may not be as effective as other brands. Finally, these glasses are not designed specifically for outdoor activities, so they may not be the best choice for hunters or hikers.
Overall, the Gatorz Magnum Tactical Hand-Crafted Military Sunglasses are an excellent choice for anyone looking for durable and stylish shooting glasses. They are made in the USA and built to last, making them a great investment for any shooting enthusiast.
Magpul Explorer Sunglasses Tactical Ballistic Sports Eyewear Shooting Glasses for Men Matte Black Frame Bronze Lens with Blue Mirror (Polarized)
We highly recommend the Magpul Explorer Sunglasses for anyone looking for a stylish and comfortable pair of shooting glasses that also provide excellent protection.
Pros
- The frames are made of TR90NZZ, which makes them both lightweight and rugged.
- The lenses and frames meet Z87.1 ballistic impact protection standards, ensuring advanced protection.
- The anti-reflective coating on the inside of the lenses minimizes distracting reflections.
Cons
- The plastic has signs of serious wear and tear after prolonged use.
- The coating on the inside of the lenses scratches easily.
- The rubber nose and temple pads can come off after a few months of use.
We’ve reviewed the Magpul Explorer Sunglasses, and we’ve been impressed with their performance. The frames are both lightweight and durable, and they provide excellent coverage. We’ve also found that the anti-reflective coating on the inside of the lenses is very effective at minimizing distracting reflections.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the plastic frames can show signs of wear and tear after prolonged use. Additionally, the coating on the inside of the lenses can scratch easily, so it’s important to be careful when cleaning them. Finally, we’ve found that the rubber nose and temple pads can come off after a few months of use, which can be a bit frustrating.
Overall, we think the Magpul Explorer Sunglasses are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a stylish and comfortable pair of shooting glasses that also provide advanced protection. They’re not perfect, but they’re definitely worth considering if you’re in the market for a new pair of shooting glasses.
Bertoni Shooting Glasses
If you are looking for a versatile and high-quality shooting glasses set, then the Bertoni Shooting Glasses are a great option.
Pros
- The set includes four interchangeable anti-fog lenses, allowing you to match the light conditions and optimize your visibility while shooting.
- The frameless design promotes ventilation and avoids optical distortion, while the wraparound shape provides superior protection and field of vision.
- The lenses are made of shatterproof polycarbonate and exceed drop ball test military standards, ensuring maximum safety and durability.
Cons
- Some users may find the lenses a bit tricky to snap in and out of the frame at first.
- The glasses may not fit perfectly on very narrow or very large faces.
- The price point may be a bit high for some buyers.
We recently tested out the Bertoni Shooting Glasses during a range session, and we were impressed by their quality and versatility. The glasses come with four anti-fog-coated lenses in different colors, allowing you to adapt to different light conditions and backgrounds. The lenses are easy to change and come with their own nose pads, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.
The frameless design of the glasses promotes ventilation and reduces fogging, while the wraparound shape protects your eyes from wind, debris, and bad weather. The glasses come with two sets of arms in different colors, adding to their versatility and style. The arms and nose pads are made of slip-resistant soft rubber, providing a comfortable and secure fit even during long shooting sessions.
Overall, we think that the Bertoni Shooting Glasses are a great investment for any serious shooter who values safety, comfort, and versatility. The glasses come with a neoprene carrying case and a 30-day money-back guarantee, making them a risk-free purchase.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying shooting glasses, there are several factors to consider. We’ll take a look at some of the key features to look for to ensure you get the best product for your needs.
Lens Material
The material of the lens is an important factor to consider. Polycarbonate lenses are a popular choice due to their durability and impact resistance. They are also lightweight and provide excellent clarity. Glass lenses are another option, but they are heavier and can break more easily than polycarbonate lenses.
Lens Color
The color of the lens can affect how you see your target and the surrounding environment. Yellow lenses are good for low-light conditions, while orange lenses enhance contrast and depth perception. Gray lenses are a good choice for bright conditions, as they reduce glare and eye strain.
Frame Material
The material of the frame is also important to consider. Nylon frames are lightweight and durable, while metal frames are heavier but more durable. Some frames also have adjustable nose pads and temple tips for a more comfortable fit.
Fit
A proper fit is crucial for shooting glasses. Look for glasses that fit snugly but comfortably on your face. Adjustable nose pads and temple tips can help ensure a proper fit. It’s also important to choose glasses that don’t obstruct your peripheral vision.
Additional Features
Some shooting glasses come with additional features, such as anti-fog coatings, scratch-resistant coatings, and UV protection. These features can enhance the performance and durability of your glasses.
Overall, when choosing shooting glasses, consider the lens material and color, frame material, fit, and any additional features that may be important to you. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure you get the best product for your needs.
