Page 2 of 3 - Eye Protection

What are Shooting Glasses?

Shooting glasses are safety glasses specifically designed to keep your eyes protected from debris, dust, ricochets, and shrapnel associated with shooting. Unlike normal sunglasses or everyday glasses, shooting safety glasses are tested against specific impact resistance metrics to help reduce the risk of injury for both indoor and outdoor shooting applications.

Shooting glasses are available in different designs and styles, including:

• Wraparound sport shooting glasses, which cover a wide field of view
• Interchangeable lens systems to accommodate differing light conditions
• Foam-sealed safety goggles to give added coverage with partial wind protection

Shooting glasses may be used for air guns, rimfire, and centerfire firearms, and they are a required piece of eye protection for shooting on every and any range trip or field outing.

How Shooting Glasses Work

Shooting safety glasses function as a physical barrier that separates your eyes from hazards. The glasses use polycarbonate or other similar high-impact material that absorbs and deflects energy caused by airborne particles or shell fragments.

What are some important features of quality shooting safety glasses?

• ANSI-rated or MIL-SPEC certified lenses,
• Anti-fog and scratch coatings,
• UV protection for outdoor shooting,
• Adjustable arms or adjustable nose pads for user comfort.

Impact-resistant sport glasses are designed to keep you safe while you are being active, and they stay clear under pressure so you can concentrate on your target, and not your gear.

Choosing the Right Shooting Glasses

When choosing the best shooting glasses for your use, please keep these things in mind:

• Conditions -- If shooting indoors, go with clear lenses; good options for outdoor use are tinted or polarized lenses.
• Fit & Comfort -- Be aware of the weight of the frames and any adjustable features, as you will most likely be wearing them for long periods.
• Coverage -- Full wraparound fit or safety goggles will provide the best coverage against side impacts or wind.
• Durability -- You will want to find models made with high-impact materials that meet or exceed safety standards.
• Interchangeable Lenses -- If you are shooting in changing lights, then you will want to find shooting glasses that have interchangeable lenses as a feature.

Regardless of your experience level, with the correct pair of shooting eye protection, you can count on the safety of your own shooting vision.