When it comes to shooting sports, ensuring the safety of your eyes is paramount. Premium ballistic eye protection shields your eyes from potential hazards and enhances your overall shooting experience. You only have one set of eyes, so protecting them is critical. These top-notch eyewear options won’t stop a bullet, but they offer great protection against common debris often associated with shooting. Each brand offers unique features, lens ratings, and varying price points to cater to the diverse needs of shooters. And in case you think you have to spend a fortune, guess again.
Magpul Defiant
Magpul, renowned for its firearm accessories, brings you the Defiant series, part of a full lineup of various styles and levels of ballistic eyewear. The Magpul Defiant ballistic sunglasses offer exceptional protection with high-impact resistance. The lenses boast a MIL-PRF rating, ensuring they meet or exceed military ballistic-protection standards. The lenses also provide 100-percent protection against UVA and UVB rays, enhancing visibility in varying light conditions. MSRP: $109.95
Leupold Becnara
Full disclosure: I’m a little biased toward these because I’ve been wearing them not only when shooting but every time I need a great pair of sunglass, whether driving or bumming around outdoors, for over a year now. Leupold, a trusted name in optics, introduces the Becnara Performance Eyewear, designed for shooters seeking premium eye protection. The lenses are ANSI Z87.1+ high-velocity impact-rated, offering excellent resistance to impact and shrapnel. Leupold's Twilight Max Lens Coating enhances low-light performance, providing a clear sight picture during dawn or dusk shooting sessions. MSRP: $159.99
Gatorz Magnum
Known for its heritage of rugged eyewear for all sorts of outdoor applications, the Gatorz Magnum eyewear carries on the tradition as a robust option for shooting enthusiasts and general outdoorsy types alike. The lenses are ANSI Z87+ and MIL-PRF-32432 Ballistic Fragmentation Impact-rated, ensuring superior protection against high-velocity projectiles. The frame, made from durable aluminum, provides a comfortable and secure fit. Gatorz offers customization options, allowing shooters to tailor the eyewear to their preferences. MSRP: $160.
Wiley X Saber Advanced
Wiley X has established itself as a leader in protective eyewear for military and law enforcement professionals, and its ballistic eyewear offerings reflect this commitment to excellence. The Wiley X Saber Advanced ballistic sunglasses feature shatterproof Selenite polycarbonate lenses with a T-shell coating for superior scratch resistance. The lenses also provide 100-percent UVA and UVB protection. The WileyX Saber Advanced series ensures uncompromising protection without sacrificing comfort, making it a favorite among serious shooters. MSRP: $74.
Venture Gear Overwatch
Venture Gear, a brand under the Pyramex Safety Products umbrella, delivers reliable ballistic eye protection with a focus on affordability. The Venture Gear Overwatch ballistic glasses feature lenses with a high-impact resistance rating, meeting both ANSI Z87.1+ and MIL-PRF standards. The frames are constructed from durable materials to balancing strength and comfort. Venture Gear Overwatch eyewear caters to budget-conscious shooters without compromising on essential features. The brand offers a cost-effective solution for those seeking reliable eye protection without breaking the bank. MSRP: $79.99
Parting Shots
Choosing premium ballistic eye protection is a crucial investment for any shooter. Whether you prioritize affordability, advanced optics, customization options, or ruggedness, this roundup provides a comprehensive overview to help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and requirements. Always prioritize safety and comfort to ensure a secure and enjoyable shooting experience.
