Eyes and ears…the two most important things to have at the shooting range.
You don’t want to end up like this guy…
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.
By the end, you’ll know which one is best for your budget and intended use.
Summary of Our Top Picks
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Best All-AroundWiley X Saber Advanced Shooting Glasses
Our overall favorite for style, coverage, and protection.
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Most AffordableRadians Revelation Protective Shooting Glasses
Offers some color options and are budget friendly but not as durable.
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Best for Clay ShootersRadians Clay Pro Shooting & Safety Glasses
Tinted red, best for clay shooters
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Most AdjustableSmith Optics Aegis Compact Elite Tactical Eyeshields
Adjustable nose piece means a better fit, also comfy!
Table of Contents
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Ballistic Eyewear 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: EN166
It’s recommended the minimum to meet is the civilian ANSI Z87.1 and if you’re really at risk of frag or projectiles…to meet the U.S. military specs.
Now let’s get into it…
Best Shooting Glasses
1. Wiley X Saber
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.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Check out their other models here.
What’s your take on the Wiley Xs?
2. Radians Revelation
Radians Revelations are what I consider the bare minimum — $8 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).
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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3. Radians Clay Shooting Glasses
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…
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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4. Oakley Radar
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.
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.
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5. Smith Aegis
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.
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.
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6. STNGR Alpine & Ridge
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.
Plus we’ve secured a 10% off coupon for our readers with code PEWPEW-10.
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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.
Again, be sure to use the PEWPEW-10 code we secured to get 10% off your sunglasses.
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7. STNGR Lo-Drag
The Lo-Drags are tough and comfortable with a wraparound style that covers your eyes — even on the periphery.
Its thin earpieces don’t grind into your head under muff-style ear pro either.
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These glasses come with two lenses — clear and smoke — allowing you to swap when shooting indoors or outside. The Lo-Drags are rated to MIL-PRF-32432.
8. Gatorz Magnum Shooting Lens
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.
We’ve worked with Gatorz to get you 15% off with code PEWPEWTACTICAL15.
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9. Gatorz Ballistic Delta
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.
Again, remember to use the code PEWPEWTACTICAL15 for 15% off.
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10. Magpul Explorer XL
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.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Final Thoughts
There you have it…my pick for the affordable range is the Wiley X Saber.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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While for those that enjoy the finer things in life (and can pull off the look)…the Smith Aegis Echo II.
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Now…my current favorites are STNGR’s Alpine and Ridge sunglasses for their durability, fit, and look.
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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.
81 Leave a Reply
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.Â
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.